2024 Mitsubishi Colt [Europe]

 

Mitsubishi Colt Returns to Europe with a Stylish, Efficient Design

Mitsubishi Motors has announced the return of the Colt to the European market, with the seventh-generation model set to go on sale in October 2023. The new Colt is based on the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance CMF-B platform and is available with a choice of a 1.6-liter hybrid or 1.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine.

The Colt is a stylish and efficient five-door hatchback that is sure to appeal to buyers in Europe. It features a modern and dynamic design, with a bold front fascia and sleek LED headlights. The interior is also stylish and modern, with a high-quality cabin and a range of advanced infotainment and safety features.

The Colt is available with a choice of two powertrains. The 1.6-liter hybrid engine combines a gasoline engine with two electric motors and a multi-mode automatic transmission. The 1.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine is available with a choice of a 6-speed manual or 5-speed manual transmission.

The Colt comes with a range of advanced safety features, including autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring. It also features a suite of driver assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic parking.

The Colt is a stylish, efficient, and safe hatchback that is sure to appeal to buyers in Europe. It is a welcome addition to the Mitsubishi lineup and is sure to be a popular choice for drivers looking for a stylish and practical car.

Here are some of the key features of the new Mitsubishi Colt:

• Stylish and modern design
• High-quality cabin
• Advanced infotainment and safety features
• Choice of two powertrains: 1.6-liter hybrid or 1.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine
• Range of advanced safety features
• Suite of driver assistance features

If you are looking for a stylish, efficient, and safe hatchback, the new Mitsubishi Colt is a great option. It is sure to appeal to buyers in Europe and is a welcome addition to the Mitsubishi lineup.

2011 Mitsubishi Colt Xtra [DE]

Mitsubishi Colt Xtra

07/04/2011: Mitsubishi Colt Sondermoldell Xtra: Stylish design and lots of extras
* Price advantage of up to 4,700 €
* ClearTec technology for many variants
* As of 9990 € including TomTom Navigation System

Hattersheim, 7 April 2011 - time for spring comes the action model Mitsubishi Colt Xtra with trendy design details and a price advantage of up to 4,700 € compared to the standard model on the market.

The Colt Xtra standard for all special models with manual transmission, ClearTec technology including automatic start-stop system (AS & G) and low-resistance tires. For example, up to 1,000 kilometers without refueling possible *.

Also at the security was the new special model is not saved. Electronic Stability Control (MASC), Traction Control (MATC), head airbags for front and rear seats include it (optional for Colt 3-door 1.1).

In five trendy colors drives up the Colt Xtra. White, black, red, silver, or the special color-brown granite emphasize the individual mobility. As a three-or five-door version of the Mitsubishi is available. Standard equipment includes: remote central locking, air conditioning with automatic temperature control (incl. coolable glovebox), front power windows, ABS with electronic brake force distribution (EBD), electrically adjustable and heated mirrors.

During the promotional period to 30 June Xtra Colt models also get a free, portable navigation system "Via TomTom 120 LIVE Europe" with integrated Bluetooth hands-free and donated TomTom carrying bag.

MMC unveils its new Concept-Global Small vehicle at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show

MITSUBISHI MOTORS CORPORATION UNVEIL THEIR CONCEPT-GLOBAL SMALL VEHICLE THE “e-compact” AT THE 81st GENEVA MOTOR SHOW


~ Mitsubishi Motors Corporation unveils its new Concept-Global Small vehicle at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show ~

Geneva 1st March 2011 - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) has today unveiled their Concept-Global Small vehicle, the “e-compact” at the 81st Geneva Motor Show. After “Project Global” in the C/D-Segments[1], MMC is now pushing the boundaries of global product planning with the forthcoming introduction of “Global Small” in the B-Segment: next-generation architecture with built-in flexibility to accommodate - by design - customer requirements in ALL world markets in the lower sector of the market(s).

Previewed as “Concept-Global Small” at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, this “e-compact” will be unveiled in production form towards the end of this year, prior to a start of production scheduled for early 2012 at an equally all-new plant MMC is currently building in Thailand, its third factory in this strategic production hub.

Mitsubishi Motors Lineup at the 2011 Geneva International Motor Show

Mitsubishi Motors Lineup at the 2011 Geneva International Motor Show

Concept Global Small - Next Generation Colt

Tokyo, January 18, 2011 – Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) will give the global premiere of the MITSUBISHI Concept Global Small (show model), a concept car based on the features of "compact", "affordability", and "high fuel efficiency" at the 81st Geneva International Motor Show which runs from March 1 through March 13 at the Geneva Palexpo exhibition and conference complex (opening to the general public on March 3). MMC will display a total of 12 vehicles (6 during press days), including vehicles already on sale in Europe, in addition to the 100% electric i-MiEV, of which about 2,500 units*1 have already been shipped to Europe within three months since its start of production and shipment in October 2010.

*1: This number includes Peugeot iOn and Citroën C-ZERO.

The MITSUBISHI Concept Global Small is the concept model of the compact passenger vehicle that is planned for production in March of 2012 at the MMC's new third factory in Thailand.

Concept Global Small - Next Generation Colt

The features of the MITSUBISHI Concept Global Small include good maneuverability and easy operation, an inherent of a compact car, accomplished in to a highly efficient package that can comfortably seat five adults. In addition, the MITSUBISHI Concept Global Small achieves top-of-class fuel efficiency, with CO2 emissions in the mid-90g/km range due to:

*Usage of an idling stop mechanism

*A 1.0 – 1.2L class compact engine equipped with a regenerative braking system

*Weight trimming to the most complex parts

*Reduced running resistance in the engine, new-generation CVT, brakes, and tires

*A body shape that greatly reduces aerodynamic resistance.

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation Conducts Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony for New Factory at Mitsubishi Motors Thailand

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation Conducts Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony for New Factory at Mitsubishi Motors Thailand

Bangkok, December 9, 2010 - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) today conducted a Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony for a new third factory of its Thailand producer and distributor, Mitsubishi Motors Thailand (MMTh) at the site where the new factory is to be built in at the Laem Chabang Industrial Estate in Chonburi province. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries including Thailand's Minister of Industry Chaiwut Bannawat and MMC President Osamu Masuko.

MMTh's 3rd factory for producing "Global Small" vehicle for domestic and export markets

The third factory will be built adjacent to the first and second factories, and is planned to start mass production in March 2012. It will produce the "global small" 1.0-1.2L class compact vehicle that MMC plans to launch in fiscal year 2011. Initially, the production capacity of this new factory will be around the 150,000-unit per year level, and in the future it can be boosted to the 200,000-unit per year level. The new factory is planned to hire around 3,000 new staffs.

"Global Small" conforming to Thailand's Eco-car Project

The "global small" to be produced at the new factory will be a new vehicle based on a completely new platform currently being developed by MMC with "compact," "affordability," and "fuel efficiency" as the basic concepts for the vehicle. The "global small" will conform to Thailand's Eco-car Project, implemented by the Thai government with the objective of promoting investment in Thailand's automobile industry and reduction of dependence on fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions. The "global small" will be positioned as an entry model in MMC's model lineup, and plans are to export the vehicle from Thailand to markets worldwide as a global strategic vehicle that corresponds to both market needs of emerging countries, for which demand for automobiles is expected to increase, and advanced nations, where vehicle downsizing is increasing in order to correspond to energy issues in addition to environmental awareness.

Mitsubishi Colt is coming to America

Mitsubishi Colt is coming to America

Buried deep within Mitsubishi's (re)presentation of its PX-MiEV plug-in hybrid concept from the Tokyo Motor Show was a line about a global small car that Mitsubishi will be bringing to the US in 2010. That's it, one line. We didn't think too much of the announcement until Mitsubishi's Product Communications Manager Moe Durand walked up and said, "In case you missed it, the small car is the Colt." Dang!

Dang because we really like the new EVO-nosed Colt, especially in Ralliart trim. Additionally, now is a wonderful time to bring over a small car. Don't believe us? Just ask Ford (Fiesta) and Mazda (Mazda2). The Colt will be going up against some pretty hefty (albeit lightweight) competition in the form of established B-segmenters like the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris and Nissan Versa.

Mitsubishi Motors line-up at the 08 Paris Motor Show

Thursday, 2 October 2008

MITSUBISHI MOTORS AT THE 2008 PARIS AUTO SHOW
~ Press Days: Oct. 2nd & 3rd / Public Days: October 4th-19th ~

Introduction
At the 2008 Mondial de L’Automobile1, Mitsubishi Motors will confirm the evergreen nature of its sporting spirit through a completely new family of sports saloons and sports hatches, all well tailored for Europe:

* Next Generation Colt (World premiere),
* Next Generation Colt Ralliart (World premiere),
* New Lancer Sportback (World premiere),
* New Lancer Ralliart (European premiere),

At the same time, the Three-Diamond brand will show that green credentials don’t have to compromise on motoring enjoyment, proving how the right blend of sporting spirit + engineering skills + awareness can lead to a different take at driving sustainability:

* Next Generation Colt “Clear Tec”,
* 2009 i MiEV 140 km/h2 electric commuter,
* Racing Lancer “Clean Diesel” showcase (…and 2009 Dakar entry!)

Last but not least, Mitsubishi strives to continue improving the environmental impact of its famed 4x4s with a thorough redesign of Shogun’s and L200’s engines for 2009, leading to substantial reductions in CO2 levels.

1 - Next Generation Colt

Following 267,000 units of the first generation Colt Mitsubishi Motors has wished to capitalize on this success and follow up with a grown-up (only ± 35% carry-over parts) but still distinctive product:

* more in line with the brand’s identity (sharper new design & signature “Jet Fighter” grille)
* more in line with its positioning (new 3- and 5-door Ralliart sporty models)
* more in line with the latest market trends (forthcoming 1.1 and 1.3 Clear Tec variants)
* more consistent (less distinction between 3- and 5-door variants than before)
* more mature (perceived quality, cargo flexibility, comfort features, NVH, driving dynamics)

Junior Lancer
In that sense, the next generation Colt gets closer to its sharp Lancer siblings introducing an exterior design thoroughly refreshed by Mitsubishi Design Europe.

Trading the MPV-like high stance of its predecessor for a lower and wider attitude, it first strikes with the adoption of a rather in-your-face full “Jet Fighter” grille together with all-new body panels fore the A-pillar, all contributing to a stronger on-road presence, but also to an improved level of pedestrian safety.

The side view offers a more elongated window line thanks to black sash foils applied on the C- and D-pillars (D-pillar only for 5-door body) and blacked-out sills.

At the back, a wrap-around and slimmer backlight, lower rear combination lamps, a new liftgate stamping and more elaborated bumper design add character whilst visually lowering and widening the car considerably (5-door only).

Signature
In line with Mitsubishi’s brand heritage & positioning, a new Colt Ralliart (150 PS 1.5 turbo) is introduced, available for the first time in 5-door form as well.

Compared to the previous Colt CZT and in addition to a stronger structure, the Colt Ralliart suspension has been amended in eight different points for sharper driving dynamics, including reduced body roll thanks to a thicker front stabilizer bar.

Clear Tec
In parallel to the existing petrol engines (1.1 / 75ps, 1.3 / 95ps, 1.5 / 109ps), Mitsubishi will introduce new “low CO2“ variants of the next generation Colt, under the umbrella name of “Clear Tec”.

They will feature - amongst others - “Automatic Stop & Go” (AS&G) and regenerative braking technologies, leading to an improvement of over 10% in terms of CO2 emissions (according to variant/engine - figure subject to final homologation).

A dedicated “Flex Fuel” (FFV) variant will also be part of the Clear Tec program for Colt.

Considering the rather low volume of Diesel Colts sold since 2004 (only 13% of the mix) and the ever increasing retail price of Diesel fuel eating away most of the cost benefits to the customer, Clear Tec packages will replace the previous Diesel powertrain in the Colt range.

Grown Up
The next generation Colt is also a better / nicer place to spend long hours of driving with changes driven by customer feedback over the past 4 years, including lower level of NVH (Noise – Vibration – Harshness), redesigned dashboard, new higher quality trim, enhanced equipment and revised rear seating flexibility leading to an increased cargo volume (from 854 l for the previous Colt to 1,032 l now)

Next Generation Colt Gallery

2 - Lancer Sportback
Essentially a “productionized” version of the acclaimed 2005 Concept-Sportback show car, Lancer Sportback was designed for Europe where the 5-door format is so popular (75% of the C-segment, EU-Top 5 figures), albeit in a sports hatch form that would suit Mitsubishi’ positioning better rather than the traditional and purely functional hatchback shape.

A Lot Of Style + A Bit Of Flexibility
At 458.5 cm (vs. 457 cm for Lancer Sports Saloon), it combines style and presence with (enough) flexibility (adjustable cargo floor height, rear seats auto-folding function,…) rather than pursuing the biggest interior volume (from 288 l – or 344 l when cargo floor is in the low position - to 1,394 l – VDA measures).

Roof Wing
In terms of design, Lancer Sportback introduces a further variation of Mitsubishi’s trademark “Jet Fighter” grille (full shape, matt black finish, chrome surround), whilst at the rear, it follows the same design theme explored in 2005 with Concept-Sportback with a very fast (58°) lift-gate surmounted by Sportback’s characteristic colour-keyed “roof wing” (standard for all variants).

Elongated rear combination lamps widen the stance of the car as they warp around the rear fenders. A feature on their own, they sign a neat bumper/fender shut line that runs exactly parallel to the rear door opening.

Sports Chassis
Using a name first seen on a Mitsubishi Motors product in the United States in 2003, Lancer Sportback is being launched in Europe and equipped with 2 engines (1.8 / 143ps and 2.0 Diesel / 140ps) and 4 gearboxes (5 M/T, 6 M/T, 4 A/T, “stepped” 6 speed CVT).

True to the Lancer name, Lancer Sportback will also feature a finely tuned chassis:
* Front suspension: MacPherson struts, coil springs and flat shaped stamped and highly rigid steel cross member.
* Rear suspension: multi-link independent set-up.
* Available sport-tuned chassis:
* Thicker stabilizer bars (+1 mm, from 20mm to 21mm),
* Different spring/shock damping rates,
* Front tower strut bar to enhance lateral rigidity for precise steering response,
* 18-inch wheels fitted to 215/45 R18 tires (availability according to models & markets).
* Properly weighted hydraulic power rack-and-pinion steering system with the added benefit of a tight turning circle (5.0 m).
* Braking system: 15’’ front discs & 14’’ rear discs, complemented by ABS, EBD, MASTC (ESP + T/C) and Brake Assist (availability according to models & markets).

3 - Lancer Ralliart

A bridge between the Lancers and Lancer Evolution, Lancer Ralliarts will be more accessible than Lancer Evolution but more potent than Lancer Sports Saloon / Lancer Sportback, transcending the sporting genes and heritage of the name, to the benefit of a (full) Lancer family, for the first time since the 80’s.

In its technology and execution, Lancer Ralliart will sit in-between Lancer Sportback / Lancer Sports Saloon and Lancer Evolution:

* Design: Lancer bodies (steel) & wheels but fitted with a Lancer Evolution aluminium hood, complete with twin vents and NACA duct, saving 7.9 kg.
* Engine: Detuned version of Lancer Evolution’s new 4B11 2.0 l Turbo MIVEC engine: 240 PS @ 6000 rpm and 353 Nm @ 3000 rpm (vs. 295 PS @ 6,500 rpm and 366 Nm @ 3,500 rpm)
* Gearbox: Similar to Lancer Evolution’s dual clutch TC-SST unit but minus the Super Sport mode.
* Chassis: Permanent 4-Wheel Drive system (“AWC”) but of a less sophisticated nature than Lancer Evolution’s (no Active Yaw Control, no Sport ABS).
* Brakes: Upgraded Lancer system with twin pot front ventilated discs, bigger master cylinder,

Available in 4- and 5-door bodystyles, Lancer Ralliart will be launched in Europe during the course of 2009

Lancer Ralliart Gallery

5-door bodystyle

4-door bodystyle

4 - i MiEV

Next to Lancer Evolution (sporting spirit) and Shogun* (4-Wheel Drive expertise), Mitsubishi Motors has decided to assign its unique “i” minicar with the role of green ambassador to the world.

2009 Launch

Announced in October 2006, the electric “i” or “i MiEV” will be first launched in Japan in 2009, with export to international markets being evaluated.

To that purpose, a fleet of 12 cars will be dispatched to Europe end of 2008 to evaluate the market potential and the feasibility of such a project.

Batteries will be supplied by Lithium Energy Japan, a joint-venture set by GS Yuasa, Mitsubishi Corporation and Mitsubishi Motors Corporation.

Beginning in early FY2009, annual production of 200,000 cells for the company’s “LEV50 (cell capacity 50Ah)” lithium-ion batteries will commence. The batteries will be for use in electric vehicles, and the annual production target will power 2,000 of the Mitsubishi i MiEV during their first year in the market.

Quiet And Very Fun To Drive
i MiEV is based on the “i” minicar platform where the rear-midship conventional petrol engine and floor- mounted fuel tank are replaced with a lithium-ion battery pack, the motor, the inverter and other EV components.

An on-board charger allows the vehicle to be changed ordinary electric outlets. In addition to the high practical values and lower emissions, i MiEV proves to be more efficient than the base model in significant categories such as: better performance (31% quicker in 40-60 km/h passing acceleration than a conventional minicar) stronger torque (180 Nm vs. the 94 Nm of the 660 cc turbo-charged petrol “i”), quietness (5 dB less) and lower level of vibrations, which are all natural advantages of electric vehicles.

144 KM Range
EV batteries must have high energy density. For that purpose, i MiEV utilizes a high density lithium-ion battery pack, each consisting of 22 modules with 4 cells per module. Each high capacity battery module can fit under the floor, both vertically or transversally.

The target range with a single charge was of 160 km for fleet test vehicles in 2007 following the 10-15 modes Japanese driving pattern, or 144 km following the European pattern. Top speed for the 47 kW i MiEV is of 140 km/h (where legal).

In terms of emissions (well-to-wheel), i MiEV compares very favorably with its gasoline sibling:

* i MiEV: ± 41g/km (0 g/km drive-time)
* i : ± 145g/km (125 g/km drive time)

Dual Charging
i MiEV accepts 2 types of battery charging systems:

1. The Household Charging System (100V, 200V) for charging at home or at a parking lot.

i MiEV can be charged from an ordinary electric outlet via the household charger plug located on the right side of the vehicle.
Using less expensive night-time power, i MiEV can be re-charged economically in 7 hours in 200V configuration (14h in 100V).

2. The Quick Charger System for speedy charging. Here, the car can be charged via the Quick Charger plug located on the left side of the vehicle.

Using the three-phase 200V 50 kW Quick Charge System, i MiEV can be charged to 80% peak in about 30 minutes.
Translating this into economical terms, i MiEV’s running costs in Japan (¥/km) are 1/3 of those of a petrol-powered minicar (daytime charging) or 1/9 (nightime charging).

5 – 2009 SUV Update
Today, as the current economic environment shift sales from full-size recreational vehicles towards compact and mid-size 4x4s, Mitsubishi Motors has decided to tackle these challenging conditions with updated products:

* On the off-roader side, both Shogun and L200 see thorough powertrain re-design developed by Mitsubishi Motors R&D Centre (Okazaki – Japan) for (mainly) European customers
* On the cross-over side, New Outlander refines its look, ahead of the forthcoming introduction of the sophisticated Twin Clutch-SST gearbox next year.

Engine & Gearbox Re-Design For Shogun
With re-design affecting bearings, cylinder heads, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, valve-train, turbo-charger, oil pump, injection system and ECU, the 2009 Shogun 3.2 Di-D can now claim:

* 200 PS @ 3,800 rpm (+ 25% for M/T or + 18% for A/T)
* 441Nm @ 2,000 rpm (+ 16% for M/T or + 18% for A/T).

In parallel to the thorough re-design of the engine, the 2009 Shogun 3.2 Di-D also benefits from new 5-speed automatic gearbox.

As a result, fuel consumption & CO2 level have been significantly reduced (Shogun LWB A/T Closed Flow DPF):

═════════════════╡Fuel Consumption╞═══╡CO2 Level╞═══════
2006-2008 Shogun.................10.3 l.........................271 g/km
2009 Shogun.........................9.3 l (- 9.7%)............247 g/km (- 8.9%)

New Design For The 178 PS “High-Power” L200
Just as for the 2009 Shogun, Mitsubishi Motors’ engineers of the Okazaki R&D Centre have applied their skills to a similar upgrade for the 2009 L200 pick-up to develop a new High-Power 2.5Di-D engine developing 178 PS, to be made available next to the current 136 PS Mid-Power engine.

As a result, the new 2009 L200 2.5 Di-D High-Power can claim:
* 178 PS @ 4,000 rpm (+ 29% for M/T and A/T vs. Mid-Power)
* 400Nm @ 2,000 rpm for M/T versions (+ 27% vs. Mid-Power)
* 350 Nm @ 2,000 rpm for A/T versions (+ 11% vs. Mid-Power)
* 223 g/km and 8.5 l / 100 km (similar values as for the tamer 136 PS Mid-Power)

Overall Refinement For All
Next to the engineering efficiencies, all three Mitsubishi 4x4s have benefited from subtle but significant safety, comfort and styling upgrades:

* Shogun: New 17” and 18” alloy wheels, improved Mitsubishi Multi Communication System
* L200: lower NVH, side airbags for Club Cab, side and curtain airbag for Double Cab, new front seat design with improved cushion/side support
* Outlander: New chrome pack incl. grille frame, side window line and tailgate (Instyle), new & more substantial side airdam, improved Mitsubishi Multi Communication system

6 - Racing Lancer
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation and its motor sports unit, the Repsol Mitsubishi Ralliart team, in association with its partners Repsol, Valeo and BFGoodrich – will enter the new, turbo-diesel 'Racing Lancer' in next year's Dakar Rally which will take competitors through Argentina and Chile from Saturday January 3 until Sunday January 18, 2009.

The Repsol Mitsubishi Ralliart team is poised to kick off its first full season using turbocharged diesel power with a four-car entry on the 2009 Dakar. The team's bid will be spearheaded by its latest cross-country rally car, the new Racing Lancer.

The four-car driver line-up is the same as that which has represented the team on this annual cross-country rally since 2005, namely Stéphane Peterhansel (France), Hiroshi Masuoka (Japan), Luc Alphand (France), and Joan 'Nani' Roma (Spain).

Diesel Power
This offensive will double as the framework for Mitsubishi’s mid-term passenger car strategy for Europe - bringing sporting heritage together with green designs – under the unusual banner of “One segment / One (green) solution”.

Just as unusual will be Racing Lancer role as MMC’s ambassador for Diesel technologies, the green solution elected by the Corporation for the C/D segment where Lancer operates.

From the all-new 4N13 Euro V 4-cylinder to be launched in 2009 first with Lancer, to Racing Lancer’s 3.0 l turbo-charged V6 race engine, all will share the same fundamental know-how and the same essential green benefits of Diesel technology, namely low fuel consumption and low emissions.

Jet Fighter
Mitsubishi Motors's design department was responsible for the body whose carbon panels are based on the design of the Lancer Sportback, from Mitsubishi’s trademark “Jet Fighter” grille to the fast back. The design was finalized after validation of the new car's aerodynamic performance in a wind tunnel.

In terms of chassis:
* Both the front and rear suspension systems feature extensively revised geometry and are both based on a double wishbone layout with coil springs, anti-roll bars and uprated BOS dampers which can be adjusted through a broader range.
* The car runs on BF Goodrich's new low-energy 245/80-16 cross-country rally tires and OZ aluminium alloy wheels (16x7JJ).
* The vented 16-inch brake discs are coupled with six-piston Brembo callipers.

In the area of powertrain:
* Racing Lancer’s powerful 3-liter V6 turbo-diesel engine features a two-stage turbocharger which positions a small and large turbine configuration on each side of engine, working with both the small and large turbine according to engine revolution and load.

At this stage, peak torque is 66.3kgfm (650Nm), while maximum power currently stands at 280ps (206kW).

* The V6 engine is fed through a manual Ricardo five-speed sequential gearbox engineered to cope with the high torque delivered by the powerplant.
* The permanent four-wheel drive transmission features the same self-locking differential as that used for Shogun/Montero Evolution.

Mitsubishi's 3rd world premiere mystery vehicle surfaces

Mitsubishi's 3rd world premiere mystery vehicle surfaces

Mitsubishi Motors has released a teaser image of the front design for a mystery vehicle in there stable that will go on a worldwide premiere in the Paris Auto Show in October. The design of the front end clearly shows that it follows the general design of the current crop of Mitsubishi vehicles, the "jet fighter" design, giving the cars an angry, aggressive look.

Mitsubishi is know to debut 3 vehciles at the Paris motor show. First of which is the Lancer Sportback, and also it's Ralliart variants, both in sedan and hatchback forms. Second is the debut of the Racing Lancer MRX09 cross country rally machine Mitsubishi will use on their assault in the 09 Dakar. Third to debut is a car shown in the picture below.

However, spy photos of this mystery vehicle revealed it's going to be the newly redesigned Mitsubishi Colt.

*Spy photos by Autoweek

Mitsubishi Colt 1.1 Attivo [UK]

Tuesday, 08 July 2008

ATTIVO ADDS ENERGY TO THE MITSUBISHI COLT

* New Special Edition for Mitsubishi’s super-mini range
* Alloy wheels and free metallic paint add customer value
* Supported by competitive finance packages

Mitsubishi has announced the addition of a new Special Edition to its super-mini range with the Colt 1.1 Attivo (meaning ‘energetic’ and ‘lively’ in Italian).

Just like the name suggests, the 1.1 litre engine puts out a healthy 74bhp at 6,000 rpm with 100 Nm torque at 4,000 rpm and 51.4 mpg (combined mode) making this an efficient and nippy little city car.

Standard equipment now sees the addition of 14” alloy wheels and free metallic paint over the CZ1 specification for just a £500 premium, along with Radio / CD player, ABS with EBD, remote central locking and driver and passenger airbags (passenger side can be disabled).

All this comes for just £7,999 for the 3-door and £8,499 for the 5-door and the Special Edition is also supported by some competitive finance packages as customers feel the pinch of the global credit crunch. Low rate finance or 50:50 finance will be offered, with 3-door advertising featuring low rate finance with a £1,994 deposit, and £135 monthly payments at 9.6% APR and 5-door advertising featuring 50:50 finance.

Demonstrator vehicles are already with Mitsubishi dealers with 300 units ready to go as demand is expected to be high with the soaring cost of fuel, and sales of efficient small cars on the increase.

The Colt Attivo is available in Lunar Silver (metallic), Illusion Blue (metallic), Atlantis Blue (metallic), Sparkling Black (metallic) and Spicy Red (solid).

Mitsubishi Europe unveiled the 2008 Colt

Mitsubishi Motors Europe @ 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show
Amsterdam, July 2nd 2007
Preview # 3

- 2008 Colt: fine-tuning -



Confirming its best-seller status for Mitsubishi Motors in the region, Colt has started its fourth year in the European market with some fine-tuning to be announced at the forthcoming 62nd Frankfurt Motor Show.

Success
With 205,561 cars (3-door, 5-door and coupé-cabriolet included) sold between the initial launch of Spring of 2004 and May 2007 - therefore covering three successive fiscal years – New Colt has successfully re-established the “Colt” nameplate in many a major European market, like Italy (9,122 units for CY2006 / + 8% in Europe’s largest B-segment market) or Germany (20,129 sales for CY2006 where it commands a 3.5% market share in the segment).



With most of these sales being conquest - since Mitsubishi Motors did not have any model in this sector before - Colt’s performance (81.504 sales for CY2006 or +12.7%) is even more remarkable. More so as the B-segment is one the toughest in Europe, involving all the mega-budget big players and driven by the introduction of new models.

As a further evidence, in B-segment-orientated Southern Europe, Colt sales increased in Spain by 24.3% during CY2006, with the sporty 3-door variant representing 45% of the total.



Mid-point
Representing nearly 30% of Mitsubishi Motors Europe sales, this CO² friendly range remains an essential pillar for the dealer network to attract newcomers to the Brand (over 70% conquest rate – 2006 data) and also to retain existing multi-motorized Mitsubishi customers looking for a smaller vehicle to second their Pajero, their L200 or their Grandis.

Action
Capitalizing on this success, Mitsubishi Motors has committed investment for short- and mid-term actions to enhance Colt’s appeal with (further) potential customers:



- Short-term:
The Colt family now benefits from several trim, equipment and color changes:

• New 15” and 16” alloy wheels*
• New metallic colors (Sparkling Black, Cranberry Red, Glamour Grey)
• New seat fabrics (black/red -3-door only-, grey -5-door only- or black*)
• New translucent elements colour (grey instead of blue)
• New shift boot colour (black instead of blue)
• Auto light and rain sensor available for high grades
  

At the same time, Colt will welcome a new pan-European special action model available with both the 3 door and 5 door bodystyle*. Sporty in spirit, as it suits Mitsubishi Motors products, these latest limited editions will feature:

• Black headlamps
• Darkened rear combination lamp reflectors
• Blacked-out A-, B- and C-pillars
• Privacy glass (5-door only)
• Black side sills and lower section of bumpers (5-door only)
• Rear roof spoiler (3-door only)
• New 16” alloy wheels
• Front fog lamps
• Rain sensor
• Auto headlamps
• MP3 functionality
• Unique seat fabric
• Black dashboard and door trim panels
• Black perforated leather for steering wheel and M/T shift knob
  

Available in the two new colors (metallic Cranberry Red and metallic Glamour Grey) as well as metallic Lunar Silver and solid Porcelaine White, these new variants will be offered with all Colt powertrains (1.1 / 75 ps, 1.3 / 95 ps, 1.5/109 ps, 1.5 DiD / 95 ps), except the 1.5 Turbo, and in both manual and Allshift automated manual** gearboxes.

As a reminder, such limited editions have been used pro-actively by all Mitsubishi distributors and dealers throughout Europe to create local special action models, accounting for over 20% of the Colt volume in average.

Mid-term lastly, a significant booster will be unveiled at the 2008 Paris Motor Show. Stay tuned…

* Details and naming according to markets.
** Allshift is only offered in combination with the 1.3 engine

-MME

Mitsubishi Black Hawk Colt Special Edition [UK]

18th May 2007

* Mitsubishi launches special edition Black Hawk Colt 3-door and CZT models.
* Distinctive sporty looks with twin-stripes, privacy glass, alloy wheels and low-profile tyres.
* Value-for money style featuring economy and performance.

The Mitsubishi Colt has earned its stripes – with the launch of two special edition Black Hawk models.

Both are based on three-door versions of Mitsubishi’s funky hatchback, the distinctive Black Hawk styling giving the car’s already fun and sporty looks an additional dose of street-cred.

As its name suggests, customers can choose any colour they like - as long as it’s black. But with two silver stripes running from front-to-back, over the centre of the bonnet, roof and tailgate, plus privacy-glass fitted to the side and rear windows, the Black Hawk will certainly stand out from the flock.

The Colt Black Hawk features Mitsubishi’s nippy 1124 cc 3-cylinder, 12-valve, DOHC engine, which delivers pocket-friendly motoring by achieving an impressive 50mpg and delivering an insurance group rating of just 3E.

This smaller-engined version of the two comes complete with a set of purposeful 16” alloy wheels, which are surrounded by low profile 205 / 45 tyres. Added to this is the option of air-conditioning, all of which makes this a very cool car indeed.

The Colt Black Hawk CZT is based on the high-performance member of the Colt family - the turbo-charged, 1468cc, MIVEC-engined CZT. Capable of reaching 62mph in just 7.2 seconds and a top-speed of 132mph, this Black Hawk has wings.

As well as featuring all of the equipment levels offered with the top of-the-range Colt: sports seats, rear tailgate spoiler, front fog lamps, sports grille, disc brakes all round and a six-speaker CD/radio with steering wheel remote controls, the Black Hawk CZT is also fitted with a set of mean-looking 17” diameter, 7” wide, special ‘Black Hawk’ alloy wheels and ultra-low profile 205 / 40 tyres.

Just 400 Colt Black Hawks have been produced, with prices ranging from £8021 OTR to £8616 OTR for models fitted with air-conditioning. The CZT version is priced at £13,026 OTR and, with only 200 made, it could well be regarded as a rare bird of the British Isles.

The Colt Black Hawks can be spotted at Mitsubishi dealers all over the UK from this month onwards.















-Mitsubishi Motors UK

Mitsubishi Motors to drive forward development of next-generation EVs

Mitsubishi Motors to drive forward development of next-generation EVs
- Colt EV test car uses in-wheel motors & lithium-ion batteries -


Colt EV in-wheel motor test vehicle (base model: Colt Sport-X)



In-wheel motor

Tokyo, May 11, 2005 — Mitsubishi Motors has chosen to center its development of next-generation electric vehicle technology on in-wheel motors and on lithium-ion batteries that the company has been working on for several years. Currently working on a test vehicle that utilizes these technologies, which it has dubbed the Mitsubishi In-wheel motor Electric Vehicle (MIEV) concept, the company also envisages their application to hybrid electric vehicles and fuel cell vehicles.

The in-wheel motor makes it possible to regulate drive torque and braking force independently at each wheel without the need for any transmission, drive shaft or other complex mechanical components. For this reason, MIEV offers highly promising potential in the ongoing evolution of Mitsubishi's all-wheel control technology that is employed so successfully in the Lancer Evolution, Pajero and other 4WD models. The fact that the drive system is housed inside the wheel itself offers significantly greater design freedom and also makes it easier to locate such space-consuming components as the battery system, fuel cell stacks and hydrogen tanks used in hybrid and fuel cell vehicles.

Lithium-ion battery technology offers superior specific energy, specific power, and life over other types of rechargeable batteries and as such is expected to contribute to higher top speeds, extended cruising ranges and to greater weight reductions in hybrid and fuel cell vehicles.

Mitsubishi Motors has already started development and testing of the MIEV concept using a production compact vehicle, Colt, to serve as the rolling test bed. The Colt EV uses rear in-wheel motors powered by a lithium-ion battery system. The company is also currently developing a more powerful in-wheel motor for use in a 4WD test car. The Colt EV will be on display at the "2005 Automotive Engineering Exposition" to be held at the Pacifico Yokohama Exhibition Hall, Yokohama from May 18 through May 20.

1. MIEV concept

Mitsubishi Motors was one of the first automakers to start research into and development of the electric vehicle as an alternative fuel vehicle. In recent years, the company has turned its attention to the practical application of high-performance lithium-ion battery power to propel FTO EV and Eclipse EV experimental vehicles in 24-hour distance and public road test programs.

Exploiting the benefits of lithium-ion battery and in-wheel motor technology, the MIEV concept opens up new possibilities in terms of alternative fuel vehicle development. As well as seeking further possibilities for the EV, Mitsubishi Motors is also looking at the application of the MIEV concept to hybrid and fuel cell vehicles.

(1) In-wheel motor

I. Further evolution of all-wheel control technology
A major benefit of the in-wheel motor is that it enables drive torque and braking force to be regulated with high precision on an individual wheel basis in both two- and four-wheel drive systems without requiring transmissions, drive shafts, differential gears or other complex and heavy components. The in-wheel motor therefore holds great promise in terms of the contribution to the further evolution of Mitsubishi's all-wheel control technology that enjoys high critical acclaim on such production models as the Lancer Evolution and Pajero.

II. Greater freedom in layout design

Housing the drive system in the wheels gives greater freedom in designing the layout. This will facilitate the conversion of IC engine-powered vehicles into hybrid vehicles without requiring the introduction of complex hybrid power systems. It will also make it easier to provide room for space-consuming components such as fuel cell stacks and hydrogen tanks in fuel cell vehicles. The space-saving benefits of the in-wheel motors also offer exciting possibilities in terms of body design. Designers will be able to create innovative exteriors, improve dynamic performance through weight distribution optimization, provide roomier interior space and improve crash worthiness through optimization of the structural framework.

(2) Lithium-ion battery

Lithium-ion battery technology offers advantages of specific energy, specific power, and life over other types of rechargeable batteries. Mitsubishi Motors has already built several test vehicles using lithium-ion battery systems, including the Mitsubishi HEV in 1996, the FTO-EV in 1998 and the Eclipse EV in 2000. The FTO-EV set a multiple-charge 24-hour distance world record on a proving ground, while the Eclipse EV covered over 400 km on public roads on a single battery charge. These and other testing programs have enabled the company to verify the practical applicability of this type of battery.


MIEV schematic

2. Colt EV profile

The in-wheel motor test car, Colt EV, is based on the standard compact vehicle, Colt. After removing the combustion engine, fuel tank and transmission, two in-wheel motors were fitted to the rear wheels and powered by a floor-mounted lithium-ion battery system.

Rigorous proving ground tests are now being conducted on the Colt EV. The test car is scheduled to undergo a tuning program with independent control of drive torque and braking force for left and right wheels to improve dynamic performance. After receiving vehicle type certification, Colt EV will undergo verification testing on public roads. Mitsubishi Motors will use the on-road testing program to identify and resolve any problems unique to the in-wheel motor vehicle, including any deterioration in road holding and ride comfort due to increases in un-sprung weight, as well as reliability and durability issues in the in-wheel motor system and its peripheral components (suspension, wheels, tires).

Mitsubishi Motors is continuing its motor and battery research and development programs as it seeks to improve performance while reducing size and weight. The company is currently working on a 50kW in-wheel motor for 4WD vehicle use that will eventually feature individual drive torque and braking force control for each wheel.


Colt EV layout sketch


Colt EV specifications
Base model: Colt Sport-X (1.5-liter, 4WD)

Length 3885 mm Width 1680 mm Height 1550 mm Curb weight 1150 kg Occupants 5 Max. speed 150 km/h Cruising range / charge (10-15 driving pattern) 150 km Motor (with internal reduction gear) Type Permanent magnetic synchronous Max. output 20 kW Max. torque 600 Nm Max. speed 1500 rpm Dimensions 310mm (dia.) x 220mm No. fitted 2 Battery Type Lithium-ion Capacity 40 Ah Voltage 14.8 V L x W x H 194 mm x 175 mm x 116 mm No. of modules 22 Controller Inverter Drive Rear wheels Tires 185/55R15

-Mitsubishi Motors Corporation