i-MiEV and ASX score high in Euro NCAP

The Mitsubishi i-MiEV electric city car has been given a four-star rating by Euro NCAP while the Mitsubishi ASX has been awarded a maximum five stars in the same crash test.

The i-MiEV is powered by a compact and lightweight motor and a pack of high-energy density lithium-ion batteries located within a long 2,55m wheelbase.

The car has been launched in 15 European countries including Ireland where first orders were in January.

The i-MiEV is priced at €28,995 which includes the €5,000 Government grand. The price is also inclusive of batteries. The car costs €155 to charge for one year and is in Band A for annual road tax (it has zero exhaust emissions).

The Japanese built Mitsubishi ASX crossover family car, which secured a top five-star rating, comes with over forty safety, styling and comfort features as standard including seven airbags, ABS with EBD and traction control, Hill Start Assist, roof rails and folding mirrors.

The 1.6 petrol Intense version is priced from €23,675; the 1.8 diesel Intense from €25,550.

The petrol version is in Tax Band B with an annual road tax of €156 and returns up to 47mpg; the diesel is in Tax Band C of €302 road tax and returns up to 5.7 L/100km (50mpg).