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2011 Mitsubishi Galant – A Quick Review

admin — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 17:13:53 +0000

The all new 2011 Mitsubishi Galant is here! And for an MSRP starting at $21,575 you really can’t go wrong. This Mitsubishi comes with a 2.4-liter four cylinder engine, matted to a four-speed automatic transmission with shifting capabilities. Rated at 160 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 157 pound-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm, the Galant delivers 21 mpg city and 30 highway.

Sadly, Galant has not updated its look too much. Appearing more like a small version of Chevrolet’s Impala, the vehicle looks a bit turn-of-the-2000′s. Mitsubishi Galant does offer a comfortable ride and “crisp handling.”

Additions and extras include Bluetooth connectivity, audio system with 6-CD changer, sunroof with the SE, ABS, traction control and a slew of safety / security features. The SE also offers an optional leather package with rear spoiler.

Mitsubishi’s All-New Compact Crossover

admin — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 18:14:48 +0000

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation announces all-new Compact Crossover – Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) announces today the forthcoming introduction of its all-new on-road Compact Crossover, to be retailed first in Japan from February 2010 onwards.

Derived from the much-acclaimed 2007 Concept-cX show car, it is the latest development of MMC’s mid-size global platform (“Project Global”).

This most important product will further support Mitsubishi Motors’ strategic shift from being an SUV-focused nameplate to a manufacturer of environment-friendly passenger cars & crossovers*, with a presence in the “authentic off-roader” segment** – itself preempting structural changes in market demand.

As such – and after i-MiEV – this on-road Compact Crossover will be the Corporation’s next game changer towards lower impact vehicles, in their format and/or in the innovative MMC proprietary technologies they will feature. The European premiere is scheduled for the 2010 Geneva Motor Show.

via WCF

Mitsubishi Colt In All Its…Glory?

admin — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 20:12:05 +0000

The Mitsubishi Colt has been a favorite of Economy-class drivers for over three decades, but it isn’t the prettiest ride in Mitsu’s line up. The current Mitsubishi Colt is a actually constructed in the Netherlands, using the same underpinnings as its sister car, the discontinued Smart Forfour. Mitsubishi has used the name twice previously, first as the marque of a series of kei cars and subcompact cars in the 1960s, and then as the export version of the Mitsubishi Mirage hatchback in the 1980s and 1990s. The Chrysler Corporation, Mitsubishi’s longtime partner, also used the name in the 1970 when it rebadged the second generation Mitsubishi Galant as Dodge Colt and Plymouth Colt captive imports for the United States market.

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In 2006 Mitsubishi displayed the Colt MIEV, using a separate electric motor at each wheel. Development of their MIEV technology was first announced May ’06 when Mitsubishi unveiled the Colt version is a rear-wheel drive all-electric vehicle fitted Colt MIEV test-bed. With two 20 kW in-wheel motors. The Colt MIEV has a top speed of 150 km/h (93 mph) and a cruising range of 150 km (93 miles) on a single charge. Charge times have been suggested to be a quick as 10 minutes, although whether this is partial or full is undisclosed. It does however point to the usage of quick-charge batteries such as those developed by Toshiba.

Mitsubishi used the Colt test bed to perform on-road testing 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 unsprung weight, as well as reliability and durability issues in the in-wheel motor system and its peripheral components (suspension, wheels, tires). They simultaneously worked on developing a more powerful version of the in wheel motors for 4WD applications.

source: wikipedia

Mitsubishi Lancer EVO X in Pictures

admin — Tue, 26 May 2009 20:33:44 +0000

If you have 49,990-pounds (roughly $69,000 USD) and want a top of the line Mitsubishi racer, then the newly released Lancer EVO X FQ-400 is for you. Of course this particular Lancer is only available in the UK for now, but rest assured that even in this economy, as long as there is an audience, we may just get our own American-ized EVO X.

Mitsu’s FQ-400 claims to be the fastest variant of the EVO-lution line from the make. At a top speed of 155 MPH (electronically limited, so it won’t be long until some psychopath deactivates that safety feature) and a 0-62 timing of 3.8 seconds, one can almost guarantee gear heads will be turning over their mattresses searching for every last penny and heading to the closest Mitsubishi lot.

What gives the Lancer EVO X FQ-400 it’s extra boost is the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine – pumping out over 400 cubic horse power and 387 lb-ft of torque. Racing-spec high flow fuel injectors, new turbocharger with intercooler along with 3-inch exhaust area all to blame for such an intense boost of power. Check out full details and more kick-ass photos below.

Mitsubishi Lancer EVO X FQ-400

THE FASTEST AND MOST EXTREME LANCER EVOLUTION EVER RELEASED BY MITSUBISHI MOTORS in the UK

* List price from £49,999
* On sale – June 2009
* The most powerful, accelerative Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X to date
* Peak power of 403bhp @ 6,500rpm; peak torque of 525Nm @ 3,500rpm
* 0-62mph in 3.8 seconds (est.); top speed 155mph (electronically limited)

The tenth version of Mitsubishi’s iconic Lancer Evolution models has a new performance flagship model to top its range, the FQ-400.

Extreme Evolution
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X FQ-400 is the fastest and most extreme version of Mitsubishi’s motorsport derived machine. With 403bhp and 387lb.ft of torque on offer from its advanced, lightweight aluminium 2.0-litre turbocharged MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) petrol engine the FQ-400 is able to reach 62mph from standstill in an estimated 3.8 seconds before reaching an electronically limited 155mph – where permitted.

Traction and handling
Ensuring all the FQ-400′s power is put to good use is Mitsubishi’s sophisticated Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) four-wheel-drive system which appropriates power to the wheels that can best use it, giving the FQ-400 quite sensational cross-country performance.

The S-AWC system combines a number of electronic systems that both enhance the FQ-400′s performance and safety, with Active Stability Control and Active Centre Differential, Active Yaw Control and Sport ABS giving the FQ-400 incredible cornering ability, traction and grip. Depending on the conditions the driver can select the most suitable set-up for the S-AWC system, three choices – Tarmac, Gravel and Snow – being offered via the wheel-mounted button and displayed in the central instrument binnacle.

Cornering stability
Increasing the FQ-400′s cornering ability even further over its FQ relatives is a wider track and lowered suspension featuring Eibach springs and Bilstein Shock Absorbers. Lightweight 18-inch, nine spoke alloy wheels fitted with Toyo Proxes R1R tyres enhance the FQ-400′s grip, giving it sharper cornering response on the road and more incisive steering. The enhanced agility and performance is backed by a revised braking system which uses aerospace grade aluminium alloys and floating sealed discs grabbed by high performance pads.

Extreme Power
To achieve the incredible 403bhp from just 2.0-litres Mitsubishi has had to significantly revise the FQ-400′s advanced powerplant. Motorsport specification high-flow fuel injectors are fitted to the aluminium cylinder head and a new hybrid turbocharger is also fitted. The higher specification turbocharger features low-friction bearings, a high temperature turbine and strengthened thrust bearing to increase response and reduce turbo lag. Feeding the turbocharger cooled air, improving its performance and efficiency, is an enhanced intercooler, while the exhaust’s gasses flow from the engine via a 3-inch diameter high flow stainless steel piping and catalytic convertor before exiting through a centrally positioned exhaust.

Mitsubishi has remapped the Engine Control Unit (ECU) extensively with over 500 hours of development time to allow its 2.0-litre turbocharged engine to not just produce its exceptional output but to do so with excellent driveability. The FQ-400′s acceleration is sensational, it pulling hard through the gears regardless of engine revs. With peak torque of 387lb.ft on offer from just 3,500rpm, the FQ-400 is just as able to trickle through town traffic as it is taking a rally special stage.

A ‘nod’ to the Evo VI
The FQ-400 looks every bit the rally refugee too, giving a strong ‘nod’ to the styling cues of the legendary Evolution VI, and builds on the already aggressive style of its Lancer Evolution X FQ relatives.

A heavily vented bonnet helps heat escape from the FQ-400′s turbocharged engine and a new lightweight composite front bumper incorporating Mitsubishi’s trademark ‘Jet Fighter’ grille features carbon-fibre elements on its leading edges. Additional lighting and High Intensity Discharge (HID) lights mark out the FQ-400′s nose, its added aggressiveness further enhanced by a 30mm drop in front ride height. Composite side skirts, a re-styled rear bumper with a carbon fibre diffuser, a rear wing incorporating a gurney strip and a roof-mounted ‘Vortex Generator’ all help manage airflow and cooling.

Behind the 18-inch lightweight, nine spoke alloy wheels it’s possible to see the Alcon brakes on the front, while the Toyo Proxes R1R tyres underline the FQ-400′s potency with their aggressive ‘cut slick’ tread pattern. Inside, the driver is held tightly against the FQ-400′s sensational accelerative, braking and cornering forces in Recaro bucket sports seats, the range-topping Lancer Evolution X also gaining an FQ-400 liveried handbrake handle and carbon fibre gearknob.

No compromise
Despite its obvious focus the FQ-400′s suspension offers compliance thanks to the Eibach Springs and Bilstein Shock Absorbers, the FQ-400′s usefulness as a daily driver not compromised overly thanks to Mitsubishi’s chassis tuning. The stiff bodywork not only provides an exceptionally rigid platform for the suspension to work, but excellent crash-worthiness, the Lancer Evolution X attaining a five-star score in Euro NCAP’s independent crash tests. The FQ-400′s S-AWC and its incorporated stability, traction and braking systems helping avoid an accident in the first place. Even so there’s reassurance of seven airbags, seat belt pretensioners and ISO Fix child seating all included in its standard specification.

Fully loaded
Standard equipment for the range-topping Lancer Evolution X model is comprehensive, the FQ-400 coming with Bluetooth hands-free telephone connection, a CD-tuner with 30 Gig hard drive, DVD satellite navigation and privacy glass. Convenience features like remote central locking, automatic headlamps and windscreen wipers increase the FQ-400′s ease of use, the huge performance it offers not coming at the expense of usefulness. Like its Lancer Evolution X relatives it features comfortable seating for five as well as a usefully sized boot, the FQ-400 bringing all the convenience of the standard saloon car it’s based upon – but with explosive performance potential.

Setting the standard
Standard it’s not though, instead the FQ-400 is a standard setter, with performance that’s the measure of any rival and many exotic sports and supercars costing many multiples of its £49,999 list price. Available from June 2009, the FQ-400 is covered by a three year / 36,000 mile warranty.

Mitsubishi Outlander GT Concept

admin — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 15:45:08 +0000

As much as we love talking about rally cars and powerful concepts, we have to take time out and show off the family-friendly side of Mitsubishi. This is what the foreign automaker decided to do when they presented their sporty yet economical/family oriented Outlander GT concept at the 2009 New York Auto Show. This “evo-inspired” model crossover combines the handling and grace of a Mitsubishi rally vehicle with the comfort and ease of a car to plop your kiddies and the mutt into. Let mom (or dad, we don’t like gender rolls here) drive the kids to soccer in style. Check out more pictures and the full press release below.

Mitsubishi World Debut of Outlander GT

Mitsubishi Motors pulled the wraps off its Outlander GT Prototype today, providing clear directional clues into the next generation of the popular Mitsubishi Outlander CUV. The Outlander GT Prototype is loaded with new technology, greater performance, higher fuel efficiency and an aggressive new design. The world debut occurred at the annual New York International Auto Show.

The Outlander GT Prototype features a revised exterior treatment, increased engine output, an advanced S-AWC system, 19-inch OZ Racing wheels, polished aluminum roof, Brembo brakes and the all-new FUSE Handsfree Media Gateway system. A revised interior and freshly added electronic options also help to raise the luxury and comfort levels of the Outlander GT Prototype.

Fresh Exterior Design

The Outlander GT Prototype features a sporty new exterior treatment inspired by Mitsubishi’s own Lancer family of automotive products. Designers sought to create a dynamic and athletic presence by utilizing new materials and a wider stance. A “jet fighter” look grille, with design elements from the Lancer Evolution model, has been added to accent the boldly reshaped front bumper, side mirrors, fenders and hood. A byproduct of the new flowing bodylines is a reduction in the coefficient of drag for the Outlander GT Prototype, increasing fuel economy as well as acceleration. Reshaped Bi-Xenon High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps also lend an aggressive appearance while a new rear bumper and side sills accent the upscale look.

One show stopping revision is the fully polished treatment on the Outlander GT Prototype’s aluminum roof. Standard on all Outlander models and inspired by Mitsubishi racing DNA, the lightweight roof panel lowers the center of gravity and increases the car’s handling capability.

More Aggressive Handling

With the Outlander already one of the best handling SUVs on the market, engineers had a great base from which to begin. Slightly lower with the use of a shorter and stiffer suspension, the Outlander GT Prototype lends a menacing and race-bred look with 19-inch OZ Racing wheels and large Brembo brakes.

Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC)

Merging Mitsubishi’s experience in off-road and rally racing with production car development, the Outlander GT Prototype features the revolutionary Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) system. More than just four-wheel drive, S-AWC is a handling system that provides increased handling, traction and stability, while still maintaining maximum fuel economy.

Utilizing a first-in-class active front limited-slip differential and an electronically controlled 4WD coupling, S-AWC can prevent wheel slip between front to rear and side-to-side to enhance tire grip. To the driver of the Outlander GT Prototype, this translates into greater traction through all types of terrain and inclement weather, including ice, snow and rain. By measuring throttle input, wheel speed, engine output, steering angle, gear selection, acceleration and yaw rate and combining that data with input from the Active Stability Control (ASC) and Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) computers, S-AWC can accurately detect driving conditions and adjust accordingly. With S-AWC, the Outlander GT Prototype can turn tighter, find traction and is more stable during cornering, while still returning excellent fuel economy and increased driver feedback. Designed to tackle all variants of road conditions, S-AWC is seamlessly integrated into day-to-day operation, with an ease of use overshadowed only by its ability to deliver passengers safely through all weather situations.

Three selectable S-AWC modes are available on the Outlander GT Prototype, including “Normal”, “Snow” and “Traction”. Hill Start Assist is also featured, which prevents the vehicle from rolling backwards when starting from a standstill on inclined surfaces.

Increased Engine Output

Improving upon the all-aluminum 3.0-liter SOHC MIVEC V6 currently found in the Outlander XLS, the Outlander GT Prototype features a reduction in intake restriction and an optimization of both camshaft timing and compression ratio for engine efficiency. With these adjustments the maximum engine output for the Outlander GT Prototype has been raised by 10hp, for a total of 230hp, and torque output is available earlier for more practical city driving and improved pickup. The gain in engine efficiency means that the Outlander GT Prototype has improved both in terms of fuel economy and emissions.

To further increase fuel economy towards four-cylinder engine levels, the Outlander GT Prototype has been fit with a revised shifting program and Idle Neutral Logic, which automatically shifts into neutral during vehicle standstill.

FUSE Handsfree Media Gateway

Enhancing the Outlander GT Prototype’s functional use is the addition of the all-new FUSE Handsfree Media Gateway system. Offering greater convenience and reduced distractions, the FUSE Handsfree Media Gateway system combines advanced voice-recognition capabilities with Bluetooth 2.0 enabled hands-free calling and audio playback. With the FUSE system, drivers can experience new levels of entertainment convenience while still retaining the capability to focus fully on the road. Automatic phonebook transfer and multiple phone support are both elements of the FUSE Handsfree Media Gateway system, as well as control of the onboard navigation system, which is equipped with a 40GB hard disk drive for quick point-of-interest lookup. Full iPod and USB music device charging and playback are featured as well for portable music compatibility.

More Comfortable Interior

Through the addition of quality soft padding and coverings, the Outlander GT Prototype’s interior has taken on a more upscale and luxurious feel. Both comfort and image have improved thanks to the addition of grained synthetic leather, double stitching and chrome accents. Borrowing styling cues from the Lancer Evolution, the Outlander GT Prototype is equipped with aluminum “racing style” pedals and a sport-type steering wheel for improved driver feel. The Outlander GT Prototype also features a new high contrast 3.5-inch QVGA LCD instrument meter, which combines multi-color looks with increased detail for visibility and improved “at a glance” viewing of such engine vitals as fuel level, water temperature and gear selection.

Electronic Additions

The Outlander GT Prototype features a variety of new electronic accessory upgrades. These additional features solidify the Outlander GT Prototype’s refined and rich driving experience. The 40GB hard disk drive navigation system is carried over from the Outlander model, although NAVTEQ RDS real time traffic has been added in the Outlander GT Prototype for accurate updates of real-world driving situations. With a 7-inch LCD on board for the navigation display, the Rockford Fosgate in-car entertainment system has been upgraded in the Outlander GT Prototype from 650 watts to 710 watts of power for greater sound detail and quality. A Total Security Alarm System has also been added, which utilizes an accurate ultrasonic wave motion sensor for improved security and detection.

Mitsubishi iMiEV LIVE in Pictures

admin — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 21:37:07 +0000

Mitsubishi’s Blade Runner-ish electric compact car, the iMiEV Sport Air Concept made it’s live world debut at the 2009 Geneva Auto Show – and we couldn’t be more excited!

Mitsubishi iMiEV Sport Air Concept

iMiEV Sport Air’s aluminum frame allows this tiny vehicle weight to be just 2,072 pounds. The main source of power comes from the base-model iMiEV’s 47 kW/60 kW electric motor. Acceleration and range varies from 100 miles to 120 miles. Check out more official photos from Mitsubishi below.

Mitsubishi iMiEV Sport

Mitsubishi iMiEV Sport Air Concept

Mitsubishi iMiEV Concept

Mitsubishi iMiEV Sport Air Concept

Mitsubishi Galant – A Brief History

admin — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 21:34:22 +0000

We see many Mitsubishi Galants out on the road today, and to most they seem like a relatively new vehicle. But the Galant has been around since 1969, sometimes two door, sometimes four, and sometimes with a Chrysler logo slapped on it. However, the Galant has had enough staying power to make its way down the line of automotive history for over 40 years – that’s saying something!

First Generation (circa) 1970 Mitsubishi Galant

“Galant” is derived from the French word meaning “chivalrous” – as if the ride in a Galant is an honor for those to cherish. Since its inception the vehicle has transformed from a two door boxy coupe to a four door sports sedan. Total sales over the decades have even surpassed 5 million. Early Galants were constructed in Japan, but by 1971 were exported to American soil by Chrysler – where it was renamed Dodge Colt. A more powerful GTO variant also arouse in the 1970′s.

1977 Mitsubishi Galant

Chrysler kept exporting the Galant throughout the 70′s – adding a station wagon version to match the larger, successful version coming out of Japan. During this time Mitsubishi introduced their MCA Jet engine. This incorporated a “Jet Valve” in each Galant, a secondary intake valve which improved emissions. The 1980′s saw a more angular design model coming from Mitsu, a supercharged engine, and rebranded models becoming highly popular in both the United Kingdom and Australia. In 1985 Galant was awarded Germany’s Das Goldene Lenkrad (Golden Steering Wheel) as Car of the Year.

1987 Galant

Ending the 1980′s came with Motor Trend’s Import Car of the Year Award in 1989. Into the 1990′s as Mitsubishi again takes home awards from Germany, the United States and their home base of Japan. The Galant is finally branded the same name throughout United States car lots, as well as being rebranded as a Dodge/Eagle 2000 in Canada. 1993 also brought in a North American based assembly plant in Normal, Illinois.

Seventhed Generation – 1998 Mitsubishi Galant

At the dawn of the 21st century, Mitsubishi introduced an entirely new Galant style, curvy, sporty and room for five. Some variations of the newer Galants included rally inspired four wheel drive and supercharged V6 engine, available in both manual and automatic transmission. ES, LS and GTZ models were also offered up with a 3.0 liter 195 horsepower V6.

2009′s Galant

Today, a slightly larger yet just as sporty Galant is available at a Mitsubishi dealer near you. Most models will come with a 2.4 liter 4-cylinder engine or the powerful 3.0 liter V6. More curves and a daring grille have added more texture to this Japanese inspired vehicle both outside and under the hood.

Research/Some Photos: Wikipedia

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X Police Car

admin — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 17:53:57 +0000

Yorkshire County police (in the UK, that is) are pleased as punch to have three new Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X police cruisers to pull teenagers over in. It’s no Crown Vic, Lancer Evolution X is going to be used as part of area Road Crime Units. Police Inspectors have praised the Evolution’s “strong visual impact, performance and safety credentials.”

Mitsu’s Evolution X police cruiser features an all new Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system, which can easily track down road warriors and fleeing criminals. According to Mitsubishi – The Hunted Will Give Up. The new member of the team will be used on the same missions and at the same time as its previous-generation siblings, creating such a strong visual impact that the vehicle being pursued will often simply give up the chase and pull over, knowing they won’t be able to out-run the RCU. What is more, the Police Evolutions ‘hunt’ in packs of three, which, Inspector Slack explained is often enough of a deterrent that high-speed chases are avoided.

Mitsu Goes Space Age With iMiEV

admin — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 21:15:57 +0000

Mitsubishi is taking a break from producing top of the line rally cars to focusing on better ways to transport commuters without destroying the environment. With car companies scrambling to reach high miles per gallon ratings by next decade, it’s time for Mitsubishi to show them how it’s done. Mitsu’s iMiEV (no relation to the i-produces of Apple) is the latest vehicle to test the California grid of future electric cars.

This mini four-door vehicle would be ready to charge at one of many roadside power stations. If you have time for a pit stop the iMiEV can charge almost 100% in 30 minutes – compared to a 14 hour charge when plugged in at home. You’ll only need a 10 minute charge to get your around town most of the time, still, the age of electric vehicle may be the new age of American patience. iMiEV has a range of 155 miles on a charge and top speed of 112 mph.

Mitsubishi hopes to have their iMiEV available for a production run in under two years.

Mitsubishi Triton Rally Concept

admin — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 14:39:46 +0000

Just in case you didn’t feel the Mitsubishi Triton was powerful enough – an Australian Rally-Tuner is taking the pickup and turning it into a desert prowler. Team Mitsubishi Ralliart has put together a high tech version of their Triton SUV/Pickup – with a powerful 3.2 liter turbo charged engine and the right stuff (as in shocks, struts and horsepower) to barrel through the dunes of any Outback setting.

Triton Rally’s power plant churns out 332 feet of torque after a 177 hp boost at a moderate 3000 to 4000 RPM. Unfortunately, the vehicle is currently only a concept, unveiled at the Australian International Auto Show. We hope to see a production model too, if only for the race course. But honestly, who would want to have just one Mitsu Triton like this, when a few thousand could be produced for the buying public.