Better times are coming for Mitsubishi, with some 'unique characteristics' in their line-up, writes Andrew Hamilton
Twelve new models over the next five years: all with "unique characteristics", that's the promise of Mitsubishi. The Japanese car manufacturer has been languishing in recent years but better times are coming through an ambitious new model programme.
Even though the famous three-diamond logo is one of the best-known symbols of corporate Japan, the influence and control in Mitsubishi Motors is now distinctly European in the shape of DaimlerChrysler.
The revival begins early next year with a new crossover vehicle codenamed NQ2. With stylish and muscular looks and two 2.0 litre engines, one petrol and one diesel, it will compete against models like the Honda HR-V. For real populist appeal, Mitsubishi is banking on a new small car, codenamed CZ2 which will take over from the Colt. That's scheduled to happen in early 2004.
A drive in a prototype recently in France revealed looks very similar to the Peugeot 206 with narrow, raked headlamps, sweeping doorline and sloping front profile. We weren't surprised, then, to learn that the design was the work of Olivier Boulay formerly with Peugeot. It even has a similar chassis layout and well-packaged interior to the French company's popular hatchback.
Inside, the CZ2 is bold and striking. We expect it will be toned down somewhat on production models but the central control panel is similar to that in the new Nissan Primera and dials mounted on a pod above the MINI-like steering wheel are likely to remain. The preview or prototype car had a central control panel featuring an angled VDU screen and incorporating a digital radio, MP3 player, Internet and e-mail facilities as well as satellite navigation and traffic alert systems.
The front seats slide forward and the back seats can be folded flat against the rear seatbase, meaning the interior can be converted into a surprisingly comfortable double bed: useful when there's no room at the inn!
Other thoughtful touches include door handles which illuminate when you press the remote release button, door pockets which can be removed and converted into handy shopping bags and a pull-out lunchbox in the dashboard, while a full-length glass roof has individual shades for occupants in the front and rear.
The new supermini, with 1.1 and 1.3 litre petrol engines and a 1.5 litre diesel, will be built at Born, in southern Holland, along with a five-door Smart city car with which it shares the same platform.
The big question is, will be called Colt or given another more alluring name? Either way, it will be a welcome arrival in the Mitsubishi stable.
Not one of the 12 new models is a facelifted Space Star which will be going on Irish sale in the autumn.
First introduced in 1998 it benefited from the MPV bonanza. For Mitsubishi, though, it isn't an MPV but a crossover vehicle.
"We bridge the gap between MPVs like the Renault Scenic and compact hatchbacks," says Patrick Murphy of Mitsubishi in Ireland. "It was also a pioneer of tall car architecture."
He thinks these characteristics will give the Space Star renewed vigour on the market, even before the real renaissance begins. Engine sizes are 1.3 and 1.6 litre petrol, as well as two 1.9 litre diesel versions with 100 and 115 bhp.