Mitsubishi is one of my favorite brands, and this preview of the new and upcoming Mitsubishi ASX has done nothing to change that. This is one of the very first pictures you will find of the ASX, which is not only a crossover but a compact vehicle as well. Its official debut will not occur until March, where it will be revealed at Geneva’s 80th motor show.

This is not a concept. It is the cX concept’s production version. Don’t remember that? Not surprising — it was revealed back in 2007, but it is finally being produced, and it will be launched in Europe later this year.

The crossover can hold up to five passengers. It comes in right beneath the newly redesigned Outlander.

The turmoil in the auto industry presents a different environment in determining how consumers are satisfied with their choicest among the available vehicles in the market today.

According to the Vehicle Satisfaction Survey for 2009 conducted by AutoPacific, Cadillac owners are the most pleased with their choice of brand with Cadillac Escalade owners being the happiest of truck buyers. The buyers of the Lexus LS have the biggest smile among car owners. Hyundai appears to be the fastest emerging brand as more and more consumers reported satisfaction with the Korean brand.

AutoPacific credits overachievement for the brands that have made good impressions to consumers in an environment where dealership closures are common occurrences.

The premium in luxury was awarded by the respondents to the Lexus LS. The Hyundai Genesis was the top aspirational luxury vehicle. The Lincoln Town Car and the Lexus ES claimed the luxury best large and midsize car, respectively. The premium midsize vehicle was given to the Hyundai Sonata. The basic midsize car was awarded to the Fusion from Ford.

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