Mitsubishi Lancer EVO X: Details On Dual-Clutch Transmission And Vehicle-Dynamic System Revealed

The big news here is without doubt, the EVO X’s all-new 6speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission, or to put it simply, Mitsubishi’s version of Audi-VW’s renowned clutchless DSG gearbox that bears the name “SST”. If you’ve driven an Audi or a VW with this kind of gearbox, you’ll know what we’re talking about, if not, an automated manual transmission allows drivers to choose between fully automated and manual gearbox changes.

Difference is that, compared to semi-automatic transmissions, dual-clutch gearboxes permit drivers of all abilities to shift rapidly through the gears (without the use of a clutch of course) faster than any manual gearbox. To be honest though, it does take out all the fun and personally, I prefer the engaging mechanical feel that you get out of a classic manual gearbox. But anyway, like other dual-clutch transmissions, Mitsubishi’s SST lets the driver to switch between three shifting programs - Normal, Sport and S-Sport - covering the full range of driving situations, from town use to sporty motoring on open roads.

As for the Lancer EVO X’s revised vehicle-dynamic system dubbed S-AWC, the difference is the addition of an ASC (Active Stability Control) feature to the ACD (Active Center Differential), AYC (Active Yaw Control) and Sport ABS (Sport Antilock Brake System) which permits the system to control each wheel under a wide range of driving conditions. -Detailed press release and images after the jump

PRESS RELEASE

Mitsubishi Motors Develops S-AWC Vehicle Dynamics Control System & Twin Clutch SST Automated Manual Transmission

July 10, 2007 – Tokyo: Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has developed two new component systems that are expected to feature in the new Lancer Evolution, due to be launched this autumn. S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) is an advanced vehicle dynamics control system that regulates drive torque at each wheel. Twin Clutch SST (Sport Shift Transmission) is an automated manual transmission that delivers slicker shifting through the gears while freeing the driver from the need to operate the clutch.

In line with its corporate philosophy, Mitsubishi Motors strives to deliver a dynamic driving experience while making advances to keep drivers safe. Twin Clutch SST and S-AWC do so by making driving more intuitive. Both the systems work to efficiently distribute power appropriate to road conditions, and deliver outstanding control and stability maintained by an "intelligent" system that reads and reflects driver intent in real time.

S-AWC:

The system now adds an ASC^*1 (Active Stability Control) feature to the ACD^*2 (Active Center Differential), AYC^*3 (Active Yaw Control) and Sport ABS^*4 (Sport Antilock Brake System) components that have proven themselves in the Lancer Evolution series. Integrated system management of these four components allows regulation of torque and braking force at each wheel. S-AWC also now employs yaw rate feedback control. This allows the system to control each wheel under a wide range of driving conditions, thus realizing vehicle behavior that faithfully reflects driver inputs and allows drivers of all abilities to enjoy sporty motoring with confidence.

Twin Clutch SST:

MMC's new automated manual transmission employs dual clutches to realize power transmission efficiencies on a par with a normal manual gearbox while also allowing slick and swift shifting. Allowing drivers of all abilities to shift rapidly up and down through the gears, Twin Clutch SST delivers satisfying acceleration while also returning superior fuel mileage thanks to its high-efficiency power transmission mechanism. The new transmission also features three operating modes tailored to different situations: from around-town drivability to instant-response and follow-the-line sporty motoring on the open road.

1.S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control)

System overview

The S-AWC vehicle dynamics control system integrates management of all its AYC, ACD, ASC and Sport ABS components (see below) while adding braking force control to Mitsubishi Motors' own AYC system. As a result S-AWC elevates drive power, cornering performance as well as vehicle stability under all driving situations, from everyday motoring to emergency evasion maneuvers.

ACD (Active Center Differential)

The Active Center Differential incorporates an electronically-controlled hydraulic multi-plate clutch. The system optimizes clutch cover clamp load for different driving conditions, regulating the differential limiting action between free and locked states to optimize front/rear wheel torque split and thereby producing the best balance between traction and steering response.

AYC (Active Yaw Control)

AYC uses a torque transfer mechanism in the rear differential to control rear wheel torque differential for different driving conditions and so limit the yaw moment that acts on the vehicle body and enhance cornering performance. AYC also acts like a limited slip differential by suppressing rear wheel slip to improve traction. The first component of its type, AYC was first used in the Lancer Evolution IV launched in April 1996. It then took an evolutionary step forward in the Lancer Evolution VIII launched in January 2003 as the Super AYC when it switched from the use of a bevel gear to a planetary gear differential, thereby doubling the amount of torque it was able to transfer. In comparison to the system used in the Lancer Evolution IX, AYC now features yaw rate feedback control using a yaw rate sensor and also gains braking force control. Accurately determining the cornering dynamics on a real-time basis, the system operates to control vehicle behavior through corners and realize vehicle behavior that more closely mirrors driver intent.

ASC (Active Stability Control)

The ASC system stabilizes vehicle attitude while maintaining optimum traction by regulating engine power and the braking force at each wheel. Taking a step beyond the previous generation Lancer Evolution, the fitting of a brake pressure sensor at each wheel allows more precise and positive control of braking force. ASC improves traction under acceleration by preventing the driving wheels from spinning on slippery surfaces. It also elevates vehicle stability by suppressing skidding in an emergency evasive maneuver or the result of other sudden steering inputs.

Sport ABS (Sport Anti-lock Braking System)

ABS allows the driver to maintain steering control and keeps the vehicle stable by preventing the wheels from locking under heavy braking or when braking on slippery surfaces. The addition of yaw rate sensors and brake pressure sensors to the Sport ABS system has improved braking performance through corners compared to the Lancer Evolution IX.

S-AWC control system

The use of engine torque and brake pressure information in the regulation of the ACD and AYC components allows the S-AWC system to determine more quickly whether the vehicle is accelerating or decelerating. S-AWC also employs yaw rate feedback for the first time. The system helps the driver follow his chosen line more closely by comparing how the car is running, as determined from data from the yaw rate sensors, and how the driver wants it to behave, as determined from steering inputs, and operates accordingly to correct any divergence. The addition of braking force regulation to AYC's main role of transferring torque

between the right and left wheels allows S-AWC to exert more control over vehicle behavior in on-the-limit driving situations. Increasing braking force on the inside wheel during understeer and on the outer wheel during oversteer situations, AYC's new braking force control feature works in concert with torque transfer regulation to realize higher levels of cornering performance and vehicle stability.

Using integrated management of the ASC and ABS systems allows S-AWC to effectively and seamlessly control vehicle dynamics when accelerating, decelerating or cornering under all driving conditions. S-AWC offers three operating modes: TARMAC for dry, paved surfaces; GRAVEL for wet or unmade surfaces, and SNOW for snow covered surfaces. When the driver selects the mode best suited to current road surface conditions S-AWC operates to control vehicle behavior accordingly and allow the driver to extract the maximum dynamic performance from his vehicle.

2.Twin Clutch SST (Sport Shift Transmission)

The mechanism

Twin Clutch SST puts odd (1st, 3rd, 5th) and even (2nd, 4th and 6th) gears on separate input shafts, each connected to an individual clutch. With both clutches under precise system control, this arrangement allows lightening-fast, smooth and lag-free gear changes with no interruption in power delivery. Using clutches instead of a torque converter to transmit power makes the Twin Clutch SST simpler in structure and reduces power transmission losses for higher transmission efficiency that leads to improved fuel mileage.

Drive modes

Twin Clutch SST allows the driver to switch between three shifting programs - Normal, Sport and S-Sport - to cover the full range of driving situations, from town use to sporty motoring on open roads.

a. Normal mode

For use around town and other normal driving situations, Normal mode scheduling uses relatively low-speed shift points to deliver unobtrusive shifting for maximum comfort together with optimum fuel economy.

b. Sport mode

For use when driving in the mountains or when engine braking is required, Sport mode scheduling uses higher shift points and quicker shifting to deliver instant throttle response that instills in the driver a closer man/machine relationship.

c. S-Sport mode

Compared with Sport mode, S-Sport mode scheduling keeps the engine turning at higher revs while allowing lightening-fast shifting.

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer European Edition - 5door Coming Next Year

With the Frankfurt Show only a couple of months away, car-makers have began showing off their 2008 merchandise. Mitsubishi on its behalf will unveil the European edition of the all-new Lancer Sports Sedan which doesn’t look any different from its US or Japanese spec counterparts. Under the hood though it’s another story -no 2.0-litre petrol engine here. Instead Europeans get the choice of two petrol units, an 110Hp 1.5-liter and a 144Hp 1.8-liter engine along with a VW Group derived, 140Hp 2.0-liter diesel engine. Of course the top-dog in the Lancer range is the Evolution, which may be introduced as well in Frankfurt.

Mitsubishi also announced that in 2008 an all-new 5-door Lancer Sportback (based on the 2005 Frankfurt Show Concept) will join the Lancer Sports Sedan and Lancer Evolution models. But what really caught our attention in Mitsubishi’s press release is that the Japanese carmaker talks about an “Upper-range version” details of which will be unveiled at a later stage. The “Upper-range version” will fit in between the 1.8-litre petrol/2.0 Diesel and the EVO in the Lancer’s range. If our inside info is correct, this could be the front wheel-drive MR version with a 2.0 turbo engine producing around 240Hp. -See the full press release after the jump

Mitsubishi Motors Europe - 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show

Preview # 2

- All-new Lancer Sports Sedan -

Mitsubishi has embarked upon its most ambitious automotive project ever through the launch of its first global platform.

Known as “Project Global” within MMC, and already successfully previewed with the second generation Outlander, this new global platform will next be rolled out to the European public at the 2007 Frankfurt Show (IAA), underpinning the all-new 4-door Lancer Sports Sedan.

Global

Representing a multi-million dollar investment, the “Project Global” platform will support the launch of several new Mitsubishi vehicles over the next few years, including (as of now) the all-new Lancer family, the second generation Outlander or the recently unveiled – and very successful – Delica D:5 minivan / SUV crossover.

Designed from the outset for world markets to accommodate various regional needs and regulations as well as changing market trends and customer demands, “Project Global” generates economies of scale through built-in flexibility and synergies in design, engineering and manufacturing.

Credentials

Designed at Mitsubishi Motors’ European design studio in Trebur, near Frankfurt (Germany) for world markets, Lancer Sports Sedan shares its stunning design language with the much-acclaimed Concept-Sportback (2005 IAA) and Concept-X (2005 Tokyo) concept cars, also created in Europe.

Its low stance, long bonnet / short deck proportions, wide track, trademark “Jet Fighter” grille (with a chromed upper grille in this European market application) and distinctively deep set “eyes”, all bring a new meaning to the concept of sports sedans.

Very much in line with Mitsubishi’s inspiring “Japanese Modern” design philosophy, this theme is also evocative of Lancer’s peerless motor sports credentials covering 35 years of racing, from the original 1973 Lancer 1600 GSR winner of numerous long distance 70s rallies in Africa and Australia (East African Safari, Bandama, Southern Cross,…) to the very hot 1980 Lancer EX 2000 Turbo and today’s Lancer Evolution.

Family

To be launched progressively in Europe from the end of 2007, the (4,570 mm long x 1,760 mm wide) Lancer Sports Sedan will provide Mitsubishi Motors in Europe with a full family of offerings ranging from 1.5 litre petrol entry models to mid-range 1.8 litre petrol and 2.0 litre Diesel versions (availability according to markets), right up to the all-new Lancer Evolution – for the first time a member of the Lancer family. In the future, further variants will be made available as well:

• - Entry level: 110 ps – 1.5 l DOHC MIVEC petrol*
• - Mid-range: 140 ps – 2.0 l Pump Jet Diesel (VAG-supplied)*
• 144 ps – 1.8 l DOHC MIVEC petrol*
• - Upper-range: output & details to be unveiled at a later stage
• - Hero: 2.0 l Turbo DOHC MIVEC petrol (Lancer Evolution / output to be unveiled later)

* all data subject to homologation.

The above line-up will include 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, CVT, 4-speed automatic and 6-speed automated manual, according to the engine.

Joining the Lancer Sports Sedan and Lancer Evolution during 2008, the all-new 5-door Lancer Sportback will further strengthen the Lancer family. With its coupé-like profile – modelled upon the exciting 2005 Frankfurt concept car of the same name – it will specifically target hatchback-minded European customers.

Beyond conventional segmentation, the all-new Lancer family will be in Europe a refreshing alternative for customers looking for timeless presence, sharp dynamics, reliability and value-for-money, all brought by heritage-proud, non-mainstream, right-brained, quality Brands.

2008 Mitsubishi Outlander: New 2.2 Di-D & 2.4 MiVEC Engines

Japanese carmaker Mitsubishi announced that it will introduce two new engines for the Outlander SUV at the 62nd Frankfurt Motor Show, a 170Hp 2.4-liter petrol engine and a 156Hp 2.2-liter diesel, both of which will be available in Europe from the fourth quarter of 2007. Additionally, the 2008 Outlander will feature minor improvements like the new milled finish 18” alloy wheels and the soft touch paint finish on dashboard. -Check out the press release after the jump

Mitsubishi Motors Europe @ 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show

Preview # 1: Outlander 2.2 Di-D and 2.4 MiVEC

- High Power -

Half way through its first year in the market, Outlander has fulfilled its target with over 13,000 units sold across Europe.

Bringing 80% of conquest customers to the Brand across Europe, it provides them with Mitsubishi Motors’ acknowledged expertise in 4-wheel drive technology dressed in a sharp envelope fit for 5+2 passengers (or 2 occupants and up to 1,691 l of cargo) all within a smaller footprint than comparable D-segment wagons.

At the occasion of the 62nd Frankfurt Motor Show, Outlander will widen its appeal to European customers with the introduction of two additional engines:

• 2.2 Di-D, Diesel common rail (1)*:

• 156 PS @ 4,000 rpm and 380 Nm @ 2,000 rpm,
• All Wheel Control,
• 6-speed manual gearbox,
• Launch: fourth quarter of 2007.

• 2.4 l MIVEC, Petrol (2)* :

• 170 PS @ 6,000 rpm and 232 Nm @ 4,100 rpm,
• 2-wheel drive or All Wheel Control (according to markets),
• 5-speed manual gearbox or stepped Sport Mode 6-speed CVT with optional paddle shift controls,
• Launch: fourth quarter of 2007.

These two new “high power” engines will then complement the current 2.0 Di-D Diesel pump-jet (140 PS @ 4,000 rpm and 310 Nm @ 1,750 rpm) “mid power” power plant (3).

Further improvements for 2008 include (spec. according to markets):

• New milled finish 18” alloy wheels (standard on Instyle)
• Rain sensor and rear parking sensors (standard on Intense+ and Instyle)
• Soft touch paint finish on dashboard
• Rear view camera now available in combination with Mitsubishi Multi Communication System (Full-map touch screen Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Navigation with music server)

Leaving the role of authentic off-roader to the next generation Pajero, Outlander is a no-compromise solution for a different type of recreational vehicle.

Using the in-built adaptability of MMC’s all-new “Project Global” flexible platform it brings passenger car-like levels of active safety and driving pleasure, thanks to its All Wheel Control drive-train, 4-wheel independent suspension, high performance brakes and low centre of gravity. The latter is helped by an aluminium roof panel, using a technology tested with the Lancer Evolution IX.

2007 Australian Annual Cost Of Vehicle Ownership Survey

An Australian survey concerning vehicle ownership cost? As strange as it may seem, not only do we like knowing that Lexus is Japanese and Land Rover is British (…), but we also find interesting totally useless stuff like how many bucks will an Aussie block pay to own his 6cylinder Commodore or Falcon. For the record, your average Mike will pay 233.40 & 229.13 AUD par week respectively that translates to €142.1 & 139.5 and $191.2 & 187.7 again, respectively.

The Royal Automobile Club of Victoria’s (RACV) conducted this particular survey and the calculations include the cost of financing the vehicle, depreciation (hence the high numbers we mentioned above), as well as operating costs including scheduled services, registration, insurance, fuel, tyres, etc. We don’t know why, but the Aussies only included Australian and Japanese carmakers along with a couple of Kia’s and Hyundai’s. Follow the jump (click "Read More...") to check out analytical ownership costs per vehicle category.

Key to the tables

Standing costs include those incurred on a periodical basis, such as depreciation in the value of the vehicle, interest on the loan, registration, driver’s license and RACV roadside assistance membership.

Running costs include those that result primarily from usage of the vehicle, such as fuel, tyre replacement, service and repairs.

Total Costs combine both Standing and Running costs. They are calculated as an average, based on costs incurred over the first five years of ownership and 15,000 km annual travel distance.

Via: RACV

Mitsubishi Colt "Black Hawk" Limited Edition Versions

Mitsubishi announced that it has launched two special limited edition Black Hawk Colt 3-door 1.1 and CZT models for the UK market. As their name suggests, the Black Hawk's are solely available in black with two silver stripes running from front-to-back -plus privacy-glass fitted to the side and rear windows. Not so successful if you ask us, as the twin stripes up front make the Colt look like Bugs Bunny on steroids.

Anyway, apart from the "ST" look-alike stripes, the Black Hawk CZT is also fitted with a set of special 17-inch rims and low profile 205 / 40 tyres. In all, Mitsubishi will offer 400 Colt Black Hawks with prices ranging from £8021 OTR to £8616 OTR for models fitted with air-conditioning. The 150Hp CZT version is priced at £13,026 OTR and only 200 units will be made. -Click “Read More…” below for extra high-res images

Technorati: Mitsubishi+Colt, Tuning, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, autos, Carscoop, blogs, 2007, images, pictures

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X Production Version Images Released!

Enough with the prototypes and the pre-production concepts, this is it, the moment all we waste-gate lovers have been waiting for: the production version of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X! You don’t even have to read Mitsubishi’s teaser press-release announcing the Japanese market release of the Evo X and its Galant Fortis counterpart to see it. All you need is to just take a look at the pictures. Out go the concept’s high-tech LED turn signals in the sideview mirrors, the futuristic light-inserts and the 20-inch alloys, in come stock headlights, tail-lamps, mirrors and 18-inch rims in 245/40 R18 tires.

And that’s about all the changes you’ll find in comparison with the Detroit Concept in concern of the EVO’s exterior appearance. Even though we lusted the first-gen concept’s more muscular looks, seeing the latest version of the Subaru Impreza WRX, puts our feet to the ground and draws a huge smile on our face. We’re absolutely fine with it. Mitsubishi hasn’t released any interior images or specs but we’re confident that they won’t disappoint us when thy fully release the EVO (it will be called Lancer Evolution in other markets) this fall at the Frankfurt Show in September. Expect the new 2.0-liter turbocharged engine to have an output of around 300Hp. –Click “Read More..” below for the Press Release and a High-Res image gallery

Mitsubishi Motors announces The names of two models due for Japan domestic market release this fall

- "GALANT FORTIS" sedan & "LANCER EVOLUTION X" high-performance 4WD sedan -

Tokyo, 26 April, 2007 - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has announced the names of two new models. The U.S.-market Lancer will be renamed "GALANT FORTIS" for the Japan domestic market. Also, Mitsubishi's rally-inspired, high-performance 4WD sedan will carry the name "LANCER EVOLUTION X" .

The development concept for the new Galant Fortis*1 calls for a "new-generation global sedan with world-class levels of safety, environmental performance and comfort". Distinguishing features include: a high-rigidity platform that delivers excellent crashworthiness; a that delivers high power output and returns excellent fuel efficiency; exterior styling that imparts a broad stance and sporty lines; and a spacious, well-appointed cabin.

The development concept for the all-new Lancer Evolution X*2 specifies a "new-generation high-performance 4WD global sedan that allows all levels of driver to enjoy the car's speed and handling with ease and in safety". The new model features Mitsubishi's S-AWC*3 traction and handling system, that integrates the control of drive torque and braking management with the four-wheel drive system to help realize highly responsive and intuitive handling in addition to outstanding vehicle attitude stability. Other examples of Mitsubishi Motors' latest automotive technology to be featured in the new model include a new lightweight and high-performance 2.0-liter turbocharged MIVEC*4 engine with aluminum cylinder block and a 6-speed automated manual transmission that contributes to exceptional performance with improved fuel economy. The performance-driven design makes the car's extreme potential clear, while cockpit design focuses the driver's attention on operating his machine.

1 -Latin for strong, steadfast, courageous.
2 -X" ("Ten") stands for the tenth iteration of the Lancer Evolution released on the Japan domestic market. (In other markets the car will be called "LANCER EVOLUTION".)
3 -Super All Wheel Control
4 -Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing and lift Electronic Control System: Mitsubishi Motors variable valve system

Technorati: Mitsubishi+Lancer, Mitsubishi+Lancer+Evolution+X, Japan, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, autos, Carscoop, blogs, 2007, images, pictures

Mitsubishi Galant Fortis: JDM Version of the Lancer

Mitsubishi’s all-new Lancer will find its way into the Japanese market as the Galant Fortis. According to the Japanese firm, the name stands for strong, steadfast and courageous in Latin –we wonder how many will get that but anyway. The Galant Fortis is due to go on sale in Japan this fall where it’ll offered with a new 2-liter engine with aluminium cylinder block –in the US spec Lancer Sports Sedan the engine has an output of 152Hp. Specs for the JDM version will available at a later date. –High Res image gallery after the jump

Technorati: Mitsubishi+Lancer, Mitsubishi+Galant+Fortis, Japan, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, autos, Carscoop, blogs, 2007, images, pictures

Mitsubishi Outlander "Sport Style Edition"

Marketers; gotta love these guys. You read Mitsubishi’s releasing the Outlander Sport Style Edition in Japan today, so logically you think that you’re going to see something special. Better think again. Even though the translation we made from the Japanese only press release can make a grown man cry, we managed to make ends meet. Wanna know the basic differences? Standard fog lights, 18-inch rims, a roof spoiler and oh, yeah, its available in three exterior colours: cool silver metallic, black mica and the pictured pearl white. Check out the non- Sport Style Edition Outlander after the jump and you’ll see what we mean.

Technorati: Mitsubishi+Outlander, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, Carscoop, blogs, 2007

Mitsubishi to introduce all-new 2.0-liter diesel engine

Mitsubishi announced that it’ll introduce an all-new 2.0-liter oil-burner to the European market in early 2009, one year earlier than scheduled. The diesel engine, which will be produced at the Kyoto Powertrain Plant, will also be phased into other markets after its Euro premier. According to the Japanese firm, the new 2.0D’s features include a new high-efficiency turbocharger and high-efficiency combustion characteristics. The diesel engine will comply with the stricter European emission standards (Euro 5) due to come into force the same year it goes into production in 2009.

Technorati: Mitsubishi, Diesel, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, autos, Carscoop, blogs, 2007, images, pictures

Video: Man takes his Mitsubishi Outlander for a catastrophic joyride in Mall!

I don’t know what the heck going around this man’s head when he decided to take a stroll with his Mitsubishi Outlander SUV in the Augusta Mall but he sure gave another meaning to the term... party crasher! Listen to what Lt. Tony Walden of the Richmond County Sheriff's Office had to say about the incident: "He drove through locked glass doors. Continued through the mall and made a left turn and proceeded toward where the new food court is. When he gets to the new food court, the vehicle turns right. The vehicle then drives through those glass doors and exits the mall". -Continued: Click “Read More…” below

Finito la musica? No cause once the man drove out the Mall, he resisted arrest from the Richmond County deputies. As you can see from the surveillance video he was quite pissed at the officers and at some point he actually attacked them! In the end though, thanks to a pint of pepper spray, the deputies managed to restrain the distraught driver and arrest him.

Via: WindingRoad Info: NBC

Technorati: Mitsubishi+Outlander, SUV, Accident, Video, Mall, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, autos, Carscoop, blogs

Official: Mitsubishi "i" to go on sale in the UK in June

Mitsubishi just came out with an official press release announcing that its anti-Smart “i” minicar or key-car as these models are named in Japan, will finally go on sale in the UK. The rear-mid-engined, four-seater “i” will be available in one spec model in an initial availability of just 300 units priced at 8.999 BP (17.500 USD or 13.400 EUR). That’s kinda of spicy even for the British market but since where talking about only 300 cars I guess Mitsubishi won’t find any problem selling them. Think of it as an inexpensive case-study (since Mitsubishi won’t have to alter the production line for a left-hand version) to asses the pulse of the European market for a future euro-version. -Continued: Click “Read More…” below see the official press release and an image gallery

Technorati: Mitsubishi+I, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, Carscoop, blogs, 2007, pictures, images

PRESS RELEASE: MITSUBISHI “i” TO GO ON SALE IN THE UK

Mitsubishi Motors UK has confirmed that the multi-award winning Mitsubishi “i” minicar will go on sale in the UK on 1st July 2007, with one highly-specified model to be launched priced at £8,999. The rear-mid-engined, four-seater “i” has already achieved cult status in Japan where it has proved both a critical and commercial success due to its futuristic styling, agile handling, clever use of interior space and comfortable ride.

Over 37,000 units were sold in Japan during 2006 and a string of automotive and design awards culminated in the “i” being named “RJC Car of the Year” by the Automotive Researchers & Journalists of Japan (RJC). Critics and customers alike have been seduced by the efficiency of the “i”’s 64bhp, 660cc turbo engine and the practical advantages of its rear-mid-engined configuration.

The decision to import the “i” follows an extensive feasibility study. Jim Tyrrell, Managing Director of Mitsubishi Motors UK stated: “We displayed the “i” at Badminton Horse Trials, the British Motor Show and at a number of key dealerships around the country and the public reaction was wholly positive. The “i” has already become a cult car in Japan and we’re confident that its space and sophistication, coupled with Mitsubishi’s reputation for quality and reliability, will also make it a hit in the UK.”

The “i” will be sold through selected Mitsubishi dealers with an initial availability of just 300 units. With deposits already being placed, the “i” may well have already attracted a small following of its own here in the UK.

THE CONCEPT

“i” is a play on the Japanese word “ai” meaning love, which emphasises the car’s people and eco-friendly properties. It is also designed to be intelligent, innovative and imaginative.

Mitsubishi’s feasibility study suggests the “i” will appeal to a wide range of people. While the younger style-conscious buyer appreciates its distinctive image and technology; older customers are attracted by its practicality, reliability and ease-of-use.

ONE HIGHLY-SPECIFIED MODEL

Just one highly-specified version of the “i” will be offered in the UK. Designed as an innovative premium small car, standard equipment will include automatic transmission, climate control, a six-speaker stereo with CD player, front and rear electric windows and electrically operated and folding door mirrors.

THE ENGINE

The “i” is powered by an all-alloy, 660cc three-cylinder petrol engine that combines a turbocharger and intercooler with MIVEC variable valve timing. The engine delivers 64bhp at 6000rpm and 69lb ft (93Nm) of torque at 3000rpm, helping the “i” accelerate from 0 to 50mph in 11.2sec and reach a top speed of around 90mph. Drive is to the rear wheels via an INVECS-II 4-speed automatic transmission, which helps reduce the stress of city driving.

THE DYNAMICS

The “i” employs a unique, aluminium space-frame chassis, which is both lightweight and exceptionally strong. This has benefits for both occupant protection and the performance of the suspension, which consists of MacPherson struts at the front and a 3-link De Dion system at the rear. The long wheelbase and near-perfect weight distribution has enabled the engineers to combine a comfortable ride quality with nippy handling. A tiny turning radius of 4.5m is also a major boon in the city.

EXTERIOR STYLE

The “i”’s futuristic styling capitalises on its rear-mid-engined configuration. It was designed at Mitsubishi’s design studio in Tokyo and its distinctive, one-box shape maximises cabin space. It’s neat, practical and appealing.

Unusual dimensions lend it a key advantage in the cut-and-thrust of city driving. The “i” is 155mm narrower than the Peugeot 107, helping it to squeeze through gaps in the traffic that would normally be reserved for a motorbike. It is also shorter than its key rivals, but the wheel-at-each corner proportions deliver a wheelbase that’s longer than a full-size supermini. This has advantages for both passenger accommodation and driving dynamics.

The success of Mitsubishi’s design has been recognised in Japan at the highest level with “i” not only taking a ‘Good Design Gold Prize’ but also beating over 2,000 entries to secure the overall Grand Prize for 2006 in the highly-prestigious Japanese Good Design Awards. The “i” is the first minicar to win this prize which is given to the most outstanding entry among all categories.

INTERIOR PRACTICALITY

The cabin highlights the benefits of a rear-mid-engined configuration by providing ample space for four adults and their luggage. Head room is particularly generous and the simple, high quality fascia contributes to the feeling of comfort. There’s also plenty of storage space and the rear seat back splits and folds to allow larger objects to be carried.

The “i” is the first Japanese car to use Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified hypoallergenic seat fabric. Working in combination with a deodorant roof lining and a clean air filter for the standard automatic air conditioning, this fabric helps purify the cabin. This is of major benefit to allergy sufferers.

HIGH LEVEL OF ACTIVE AND PASSIVE SAFETY

The standard ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) helps the driver avoid an accident, but should the worst happen, occupants are protected by twin front airbags and a sophisticated survival cell. ISOFIX child seat mounting points and anti-trap electric windows help safeguard the next generation, while an innovative energy-absorbing wiper pivot under the bonnet reduces the risk of injury to a pedestrian.