" i " takes "Most Advanced Technology" award

" i " takes "Most Advanced Technology" Special Achievement Award in the Car of the Year Japan 2006-2007

" i "

Rear-midship Layout

Tokyo, November 20, 2006 — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation today announced that the "i" mini passenger car has won the "Most Advanced Technology" Special Achievement Award, voted for by the Car of the Year Japan's Executive Committee*1. The "i" is the first mini passenger car to be awarded this honor. Confirming Mitsubishi Motors' heritage in the Car of The Year awards, this further recognition for "i" comes 10 years after "Galant/Legnum" was declared Car of the Year Japan 1996-1997.

Ushering in a new age for the minicar, "i" was developed as an innovative Premium Small Car that successfully overcomes the tradeoffs traditionally associated with the category: design versus comfortable interior space; comfortable interior space versus impact safety. Mitsubishi Motors has conquered these challenges by developing a new and leading edge "rear-midship layout" that mounts the engine forward of the rear axle line and permits three new "innovations" within the category's dimensional constraints: futuristic and uptown styling; agile handling and a comfortable ride; and excellent multidirectional impact safety. This highly original exterior and interior design, which is delivered by the ingenious platform, brought the award.

*1: Outline of Car of the Year Japan 2006-2007
Candidates: All passenger cars released or launched in Japan as a new model between November 1, 2005 and October 31, 2006.
Prizes: Car of the Year Japan / Import Car of the Year Special Achievement Awards ("Most Fun", "Best Value", "Most Advanced Technology")
COTY Jury: 63 jurors

-MMC