Mitsubishi Introduces New Colt: For Europe Only

Mitsubishi Motors uses the Paris Auto Show to formally announce its next-generation Colt, a Europe-only sub-compact model that it last redesigned in 2004. Eschewing the "MPV-like high stance of its predecessor," Mitsubishi says that the Colt's aggressive new nose and a more athletic stance now make it an appropriate junior member of the sporting Lancer and Galant family. The Colt will go on sale in Europe next spring.

Staying abreast of the green-themed entries at this year's Paris show, Mitsubishi announces a soon-to-come low-emissions/low-consumption version of the new Colt dubbed "Clear Tec." In addition to the Colt's already-frugal 1.1, 1.3, and 1.5-liter gasoline four cylinder engines, the Clear Tec spec (available on the 1.1 and 1.3) adds engine stop/start and regenerative braking capability. A flex-fuel version of Clear Tec will also be available, though no diesels are planned for the Colt.

Only 35 percent of this new Colt is carryover material, and Mitsubishi assures us that the vehicle is significantly changed from the ground up. They claim better NVH, improved handling, greater interior comfort/quality, and better cargo flexibility.

We think Mitsu should consider killing the heavy, slow-selling Galant here in the states and jump on the tidal wave of sales that cars like the Honda Fit are currently enjoying. With a similarly styled - and sized - model in the form of its new Colt, Mitsubishi Motors of America should beg and plead with its Japanese overseers for a chance with a product that its dealers sorely need. 2008 Mitsubishi ColtEnlarge Photo Mitsubishi Motors uses the Paris Auto Show to formally announce its next-generation Colt, a Europe-only sub-compact model that it last redesigned in 2004. Eschewing the "MPV-like high stance of its predecessor," Mitsubishi says that the Colt's aggressive new nose and a more athletic stance now make it an appropriate junior member of the sporting Lancer and Galant family. The Colt will go on sale in Europe next spring. Staying abreast of the green-themed entries at this year's Paris show, Mitsubishi announces a soon-to-come low-emissions/low-consumption version of the new Colt dubbed "Clear Tec." In addition to the Colt's already-frugal 1.1, 1.3, and 1.5-liter gasoline four cylinder engines, the Clear Tec spec (available on the 1.1 and 1.3) adds engine stop/start and regenerative braking capability. A flex-fuel version of Clear Tec will also be available, though no diesels are planned for the Colt. Only 35 percent of this new Colt is carryover material, and Mitsubishi assures us that the vehicle is significantly changed from the ground up. They claim better NVH, improved handling, greater interior comfort/quality, and better cargo flexibility. We think Mitsu should consider killing the heavy, slow-selling Galant here in the states and jump on the tidal wave of sales that cars like the Honda Fit are currently enjoying. With a similarly styled - and sized - model in the form of its new Colt, Mitsubishi Motors of America should beg and plead with its Japanese overseers for a chance with a product that its dealers sorely need.