ASX marks the spot for a style-conscious compact SUV that's good value and decent to drive.

Mitsubishi is pitching this eye-catcher at families who want to step up from a small hatchback - but wish to avoid increased ownership costs.

The aerodynamically efficient exterior of the ASX is inspired by the Japanese company's Evo X performance saloon - so there's an in-your-face grille and headlights while the rest of the exterior is slickly designed.

Running costs are reasonable with even the 2.2-litre diesel automatic flagship car I drove returning around 48mpg. Carbon dioxide emissions are competitive while insurance costs shouldn't break the bank.

This automatic version of the ASX uses the engine found in the new Outlander so is more than up to the task of towing a caravan.

The ride is comfortable thanks to an efficient suspension and big tyres which absorb most of the humps and hollows that pass for roads these days.

There is a tendency for the body to lean in corners and for the steering to be a little vague, but unless you are thinking of taking the ASX rallying it is a well-mannered companion.

Levels of grip are good on the ASX 4 thanks to all-wheel drive which is accessed via a push-button situated between the front seats - the car also being able to operate in front-wheel drive only so reducing fuel consumption.

Enhanced sound proofing does a good job of insulating the cabin from the outside world with just the hint of the diesel engine breaking through when worked hard.

The interior is spacious and well put together while families with an active lifestyle, or a hungry horde of kids, will appreciate the big boot - sporting a hidden storage area - which easily swallows the results of a weekly supermarket shopping run or the luggage for a weekend away.

The rear seats can also be split and folded flat when the garage is finally overflowing and that trip to the rubbish dump can no longer be avoided.

The driver gets to look at a neat dashboard display that's easy to navigate with switches and dials where you expect them to be - and when you look up there's a good view of the motoring world around you.

A comfortable position behind the steering wheel is readily achieved as the seat is electrically adjustable -  while both front seats also have heaters to combat those cold winter months.

Mitsubishi throw in lots of toys increasing the ASX's appeal. There are three trim levels - 2, 3 and 4 - with even the entry-level 2 model getting goodies such as alloy wheels, air conditioning, electric windows, a Bluetooth hands-free system and remote keyless entry.

By the time the fantastic 4 model is reached the ASX is bristling with creature comforts and clever technology including a reversing camera and parking sensors, leather upholstery, satellite navigation, CD/radio with MP3 compatibility, plus automatic light and rain sensors.

It also comes with a splendid panoramic glass roof which features LED mood lighting at night.

A ton of safety equipment includes stability and traction control, seven airbags - including one for the driver's knees - brake assist and Isofix child seat mounting points.

More than 340,000 ASX models have been sold around the world - with the 2014 version looking set to add significantly to that total.