Straightline
Mitsubishi
June 4, 2009
Earlier we thrilled you with footage of the i-MiEV electric car in action. Now Mitsubishi has gone one step further and announced an official on-sale date for its upcoming eco-car.
Fleet sales will start in Japan this July with about 1,400 vehicles slated for leases to corporations and local authorities. Starting in April 2010, Mitsubishi plans to begin leasing the i-MiEV to the public.
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- Posted by: Ed Hellwig June 4, 2009, 8:15 PM
- Categories: Future Vehicles, Green Tech, Mitsubishi, Sedans
In case you've missed the Mitsubishi i MiEV at the half-dozen auto shows it has graced over the last several years, it's an all-electric car that the company has been developing with full production in mind. It's expected to go into fleet use this summer and Mitsubishi has said that it plans worldwide consumer sales shortly thereafter.
In a bid to shore up confidence in its pint-size crossover thing, Mitsubishi has released this video of the vehicle undergoing various reliability tests. You've got your "high speed" oval run, slalom test, rough road test and even a deep water crossing.
New York Auto Show: Electric i MiEV Bound for U.S.
Continue reading...
April 9, 2009
#NYIAS Don't get too excited, it will be awhile before the Mitsubishi i MiEV arrives at U.S. dealerships ready for public sale. At today's press conference in New York, Mitsubishi Motors North America President and CEO Shinichi Kurihara announced that Mitsubishi fully intends to develop its i MiEV electric car for world markets including the United States. Fleet sales of the i MiEV are expected to start in Japan this summer.
The i MiEV slated for Japan is slightly smaller than the vehicle on hand at today's show. A wider track is the main difference. Sources on hand at the show said Mitsubishi is also considering a gasoline version of the vehicle for the U.S. Could be an interesting alternative to the Smart. -- Ed Hellwig, Lead Senior Editor, Inside Line
Inside Line News: Mitsubishi i MiEV
#NYIAS After the release of a revealing teaser image last week, the unveiling of the Mitsubishi Outlander GT Prototype was hardly a surprise. It looked like an Outlander with an Evo front end and that's exactly what it is. That's not all, though.
Continue reading...
April 3, 2009
#nyias A couple teaser images have been released on the Mitsubishi Outlander GT Prototype that will appear at the 2009 New York Auto Show next week. Although blurred for effect, it obvious that the new Outlander model will get a front-end design similar to the Lancer Evolution sedan. Mitsubishi also says to expect more power from this Outlander's 3.0-liter V6 along with increased efficiency and a revised all-wheel drive system.
March 27, 2009
In response to the weak business environment, Mitsubishi announced layoffs totaling 140 employees in its Sales and Credit divisions this morning. The two divisions continue to employee roughly 400 people at Mitsubishi's Cypress, CA headquarters.
In a statement released by the company, Mr. Shinichi Kurihara, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors North America, said, "It is with great sadness and regret that we must engage in these actions of personnel reduction. Our associates have all been loyal, hard-working and valuable contributors to the foundation of Mitsubishi Motors.
"However, the challenging economic climate forces strategic changes that will better support our long-term durability in the North American market. Mitsubishi Motors remains steadfast in its commitment to our consumers, dealers, partners and employees, and such reductions, though painful, will allow us to maximize and execute our revised future product and marketing plans in this new landscape."
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- Posted by: Ed Hellwig March 27, 2009, 10:15 AM
- Categories: Mitsubishi
March 5, 2009
More bad news from a struggling automaker. Inside Line has learned that Mitsubishi Motors of America has closed its west coast design studio in Cypress, CA. All of the roughly 50-60 employees were laid off.
The design studio was responsible for many of Mitsubishi's concepts over the years including the Concept RA shown at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show.
February 4, 2009
Don't worry, Congress hasn't outlawed cool cars just yet. Although there will be no 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, the 2010 model will be here this summer.
Mitsubishi made the decision late last year after realizing that the 2008 model's late start would mean a shortened production run for 2009. Like every other manufacturer, Mitsubishi's sales are slow, so top management saw no need to schedule the short production year.
Full Story: Inside Line News
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- Posted by: Ed Hellwig February 4, 2009, 11:23 AM
- Categories: Mitsubishi, Sedans
January 30, 2009
Mitsubishi's U.S. baby got Sportback. It's true. Despite the U.S. market's historic disinterest in five-door hatchbacks, Mitsubishi will begin importing the Sportback this summer as a 2010 model.
It'll be available in commuter-car GTS and sporty Ralliart flavors. Either way, it'll offer a maximum of 52.7 cubic feet of cargo space.
Lest there be any confusion, the production Lancer Sportback is on the right in the above photo.
Read Inside Line's take on the 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback
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- Posted by: Daniel Pund January 30, 2009, 11:22 AM
- Categories: Hatchbacks, Mitsubishi
January 26, 2009
The Mitsubishi iMiEV Sport Air concept will make its world debut at the 2009 Geneva Auto Show. The latest in Mitsubishi's electric iMiEV series, the Sport Air is designed to show how an electric car can be fun to drive and environmentally friendly. It even gets a tidy tagline that sums it all up: drive@earth. Get it? Makes no sense to us either.
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- Posted by: Ed Hellwig January 26, 2009, 7:20 AM
- Categories: Concept Vehicles, Geneva Motor Show, Mitsubishi
December 31, 2008
Osamu Suzuki, president of Suzuki Motors, is quite worried as to what the Detroit domino effect may have on the smaller Japanese brands.
His feeling is that it could result in fewer Japanese car manufacturers. Smaller brands like Suzuki, Subaru, Mitsubishi, Mazda and Isuzu could be impacted in a way in which they may not survive; at least as we currently know them, or at all.
Says Suzuki: "There is a time-lag between what is happening with the Big Three US carmakers and the impact that will have in Japan. It is as if tsunami waves are rolling toward Japanese shores. I believe a real wave will hit us around July or August next year, with car sales hitting rock bottom."
He went on to say that the world was "entering a period in which more than ten Japanese carmakers could be consolidated into a Japan Big Three."
Full story here.
Related story here: Toyota and Honda looking at tweaking supply lines (here) to avoid possible disruptions.
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- Posted by: Bob Holland December 31, 2008, 4:00 AM
- Categories: Auto Industry, Honda, Isuzu, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Subaru, Suzuki, Toyota
November 26, 2008
With Porsche, Suzuki, Mitsubishi, Ferrari, Land Rover and Rolls-Royce, Nissan and Infiniti being no-shows at the NAIAS, that gives the Chinese automakers a better chance to display their products. Formally these vehicles have been delegated to pretty much second-class floor space in the basement of Cobo Hall, better known as Michigan Hall.
Not anymore, as there is now some prime real estate now available up on the main floor. Two Chinese brands moving up to the "show" are BYD Auto and Brilliance.
Full story here.
Related stories here and here.
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- Posted by: Bob Holland November 26, 2008, 4:00 AM
- Categories: All Auto Shows, Detroit Auto Show, Ferrari, Infiniti, Land Rover, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Porsche, Rolls-Royce, Suzuki
November 20, 2008
Sure, we're all at the L.A. auto show to see all the brand-spanking-new cars, but a few manufacturers chose to display some greats from their past. Here are some of the gems. My favorite is the Jag. -- James Riswick, Automotive Editor
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- Posted by: JRiz November 20, 2008, 4:16 PM
- Categories: BMW, Jaguar, LA Auto Show, Mitsubishi, Volkswagen
November 4, 2008
A bolt-on, stock-looking ball-bearing Garrett GT30R with a twin-scroll turbine housing for the 2008+ Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution? Owners residing in California will eat this up. Heck, it even retains the stock heat shield on the exhaust manifold.
According to the company, this turbo will be available in two flavors, GT3071R and GT3076R (same except for compressor wheel size) and the larger one will support more than 500 hp without decimating boost response. There will also be two turbine housing sizes available (0.73 and 0.94 A/R).
We're intrigued. And we have an Evo X GSR project car. Stay tuned.
Jason Kavanagh, Engineering Editor
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- Posted by: J to the K November 4, 2008, 2:06 PM
- Categories: Car Tech, Mitsubishi, SEMA Show
October 30, 2008
Finally a bit of good news coming from the automotive sector. Both Mazda and Mitsubishi have posted gains. They're only "slight" gains, but, hey... we'll take whatever we can get, right?
For the first time in six years, Mitsubishi Motors Corp. said it moved back into the black during the April-September period. Also, the surging yen limited Mazda to a modest gain in profit.
"The global financial crisis is impacting the automobile industry as seen in a weakening of consumer confidence and in the effects of the credit crunch," Mitsubishi said in a statement.
"It is clear that there will be a significant drop in overall demand in the mature economies of Europe and North America and also that there will be a slowdown in the economies of many of the emerging nations that have until recently have been relatively buoyant."
Full story here.
Image: Mazda Motor Corp. President and Chief Executive Hisakazu Imaki / KATSUMI KASAHARA/Associated Press
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- Posted by: Bob Holland October 30, 2008, 7:06 AM
- Categories: Mazda, Mitsubishi
October 28, 2008
The spreading Wall Street financial crisis is beginning to affect what we will see offered here and around the world--and sooner rather than later. No market is going to get by untouched. Even those OPEC and other oil-rich countries will see some sort of negative effect as it pertains to vehicle choices. AutoObserver has an excellent article on how automakers are addressing this situation:
Industry Headaches Starting to Affect Product Plans
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- Posted by: Bob Holland October 28, 2008, 7:41 AM
- Categories: Auto Industry, BMW, Chrysler, Fiat, Ford, General Motors, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Tata Motors, Toyota, Volkswagen
October 21, 2008
It's well known that racing has contributed heavily to the design and engineering of vehicles that you and I drive. With that thought in mind the LA Auto Show will feature a display of what future race cars might be like in 2025, what they may offer in terms of technology and safety; and ultimately, how that might be applied to ordinary cars sometime in the future.
The designs are part of the fifth annual Los Angeles Auto Show's Design Challenge, where studios including Audi, BMW, GM, Honda, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota and Volkswagen are pitted against each other to showcase their talents and further explore new ideas in automotive design.
Full story here.
Here's Inside Line's take: 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show: Mind-Blowing Motorsports Concepts Rev Up 2025 Design Challenge
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- Posted by: Bob Holland October 21, 2008, 4:00 AM
- Categories: Audi, Auto Shows, BMW, General Motors, Honda, LA Auto Show, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Motorsports, Toyota, Volkswagen
October 16, 2008
AutoExpress is reporting that a range topping EVO FQ400 version is slated for production. Following in the footsteps of the FQ300 and FQ360, the 400 hp Evo X screamer is based on the racer that competed in the recent Britcar 24hr race at Silverstone.
At the moment there here are no firm details about the road-going version. It's likely to have a new turbocharger, new exhaust manifold as well as a heavily revised ECU and fuel system.
Expect 0-60mph in 3.5 seconds and a top speed in excess of 170mph. It is likely to come with a manual gearbox as standard, uprated suspension, mild visual tweaks and bigger brakes too. The price? Expect to pay at least £45,000. No word as to whether it will be coming Stateside.
Full story here.
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- Posted by: Bob Holland October 16, 2008, 4:00 AM
- Categories: Mitsubishi
September 26, 2008
Mitsubishi Motors is participating in this year's Los Angeles Auto Show Design Challenge, which pits Southern California-based OE design studios against one another for ultimate bragging rights. This year's theme is: Motorsports in 2025.
States David O'Connell, Chief Designer, Mitsubishi Motors R&D of America:
"This year's
Motorsport 2025 project is just the sort of assignment the designers at Mitsubishi Motors dream of. It's rooted it the reality of automotive competition that our company is so successful at, but lets us look way out on the horizon as to where technology may take us. We all loved hearing the words, 'design a race car,' but really smiled when we learned it was a race car for the year 2025. That combined with linking the car to some of the fabulous racing heritage that's taken place here in California makes it indeed one of the most exciting projects we've ever worked on. My dream would be to actually build and drive this car on the course it was designed for."
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- Posted by: Bob Holland September 26, 2008, 4:00 AM
- Categories: All Auto Shows, LA Auto Show, Mitsubishi, Motorsports
August 25, 2008
Looking like a mutant Ralliart Sportback, this Mitsubishi rally racer, simply called the "Racing Lancer," has enough torque to rotate this planet a few degrees, as in 640 lb.-ft. Horsepower? How's 260 grab you?
The Racing Lancer will make its official debut in round six of the 2008 FIA Cross-Country Rally World Cup in Portugal October 30-November 2. It likely will also see action in the 2009 Dakar Rally.
Full story here.
Here's
Inside Line's take:
Apocalyptic Mitsubishi "Racing Lancer" Preps for Official Debut
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- Posted by: Bob Holland August 25, 2008, 4:00 AM
- Categories: Mitsubishi, Motorsports
August 1, 2008
Anybody notice that on the same day that Subaru announced their updated '09 WRX, that Mitsubishi announced prices on their WRX-fighter, the '09 Ralliart? Think maybe that the Mitsu-Gang was trying to let a little air out of the WRX balloon?
Now it should come as no surprise to long-time readers here that I favor the WRX over the Ralliart, but I have to admit that the Mitsubishi has several items on their standard and/or option list that I really wish Subaru offered as well. They are:
• The Mitsubishi comes standard with a very trick Twin Clutch-Sportronic¨ Shift Transmission (TC-SST). Frankly, my preference is that this were optional and not standard, as I'm a dedicated 3-pedal devotee. Still, it's great to have this on the check list.
• The Ralliart offers an optional ($2,750) Recaro seat package which bundles a high-intensity-discharge headlights, a 650-watt Rockford Fosgate Punch premium sound system with nine speakers and a 10-inch subwoofer, Sirius Satellite Radio with six months of service and a six-CD/MP3 in-dash head unit.
• It also has a 40 GB hard drive too for storing music. This may be packaged with the above item, or is part of the navigation package? Regardless, I like the idea of having a multi-gigabyte hard drive.
So Subaru, as great as the new WRX upgrade is, here are a few holes that still need to be filled.
Here's Inside Line's take: Mitsubishi Announces Pricing on 2009 Lancer Ralliart
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- Posted by: Bob Holland August 1, 2008, 7:18 AM
- Categories: Mitsubishi, Subaru
July 30, 2008
I guess better late than never, as it looks like Mitsubishi will be offering a "lifted" Lancer Sportback X that would compete with both the Subaru Outback and Outback Sport.
The image above is pure speculation, but probably gives a pretty good indication as to what this vehicle could look like. No word on mechanical changes other than the rumored lifted suspension. It would be pretty cool if they offered it with the turbo from the Ralliart (or EVO).
Carscoop is reporting the car will be released internationally sometime in 2010.
Full story here.
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- Posted by: Bob Holland July 30, 2008, 4:00 AM
- Categories: Hatchbacks, Mitsubishi, Subaru
July 22, 2008
The UK is getting two--possibly three--special edition WRXs, which no doubt are meant to counter any upcoming Mitsubishi EVO challenges. They are a 252 ps WRX-S, a 325ps WRX STI 330S, and finally a 375ps WRX STI 380S concept.
Of most interest to American Subie fans is the UK-spec WRX-S (pictured above), as that could well hint at what we might see in the US-spec 2009 WRX. The car mirrors most if not all the items mentioned in recent rumors such as in a more powerful 2.5 engine and a tweaked suspension and aero kit. It also has some STI visual styling cues, such as the STI grille and painted out (former chrome) panel on the rear hatch. One thing I don't expect to see is the 18" wheels and tires seen here. The U.S. model will be getting upgraded rubber and grayed out wheels, but will remain 17" units.
Subaru of America is supposed to announce the 2009 Imprezas in about a week, so it won't be long before we know the whole deal.
Full story here.
Here's Inside Line's take: 2008 British Auto Show: Subaru Impreza WRX STI 380S
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- Posted by: Bob Holland July 22, 2008, 7:36 AM
- Categories: All Auto Shows, Mitsubishi, Sports Cars, Subaru
July 18, 2008
New Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, which will debut at the Moscow Motor Show late this August, is not coming to the USA. That's a shame. Yeah, I know, there's a limited market here for any "true" SUV these days. Nevertheless, I still think this would be a good addition to the Mitsubishi U.S. product portfolio.
So this 5- or 7-passenger SUV will be sold where these types of vehicles are appreciated and will be used as intended. For those lucky markets who will get this vehicle (Russia, the Middle East, Latin America and Oceania), one can expect two diesel engine choices, 2.5L and 3.2L, as well as a 3.5L V6 gas engine choice. It also comes with Mitsubishi's excellent Super Select 4WD which can be used on any surface.
Full story here.
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- Posted by: Bob Holland July 18, 2008, 4:00 AM
- Categories: All Auto Shows, Mitsubishi, SUVs
June 12, 2008
The production version of the Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback will debut at the Paris auto show this September. The pixs above show both the base Lancer and the Ralliart version. The Ralliart will go head-to-head with the WRX, as it will be turbocharged and have AWD.
No word as to whether the EVO will get the Sportback model...
Continue reading...
May 2, 2008
Early in March Straightline reported that Toyota and Mitsubishi would team up on a new jet airplane (Toyota considering Mitsubishi jet invitation).
Now the latest word is that this is not going to be a small jet, like the HondaJet, but rather a large passenger jet capable of transporting 70 to 90 people. To help this project along, Toyota has announced that it would invest up to ¥10 billion ($96 million) to get this project off the ground (pun intended). It's hoped that this new jet will go on sale by 2013...
Continue reading...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland May 2, 2008, 11:19 AM
- Categories: Mitsubishi, Toyota
April 1, 2008
Edmunds.com is conducting another consumer comparison test.
We want you to test-drive these 2008 economy sedans:
Honda Civic, Mazda MAZDA3, Mitsubishi Lancer, Toyota Corolla
Just like our last consumer test, we will send you to Willow Springs Raceway in California where you'll get to test the cars in a number of situations.
All you have to do is write an essay telling us why we should choose you. Make it good because competition will be stiff...
Continue reading...
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- Posted by: Donna DeRosa April 1, 2008, 4:07 PM
- Categories: Honda, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Sedans, Toyota
March 28, 2008
Now before any of you off-roaders get all giddy about this new Mitsubishi—take a deep breath. This is for Brazil, not the USA. Which is really a shame, as this is far more interesting than the current Dodge Dakota-based Raider. Speaking of which, when was the last time you saw a Mitsubishi Raider on the road?..
Continue reading...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland March 28, 2008, 4:00 AM
- Categories: Mitsubishi, Trucks
March 13, 2008
Fresh off several successful new model announcements, Mitsubishi has announced their midterm "Step Up 2010" business plan. In it is what we can expect over the next few years in terms of new product. In short, they are:
• A global sport coupe based off the Concept-RA
• More vehicles based off the Outlander/Lancer platform, one being a new medium-size premium sedan, to slot in between the Lancer and Galant
• Two small SUVs, presumably for Asia
• Their small 660cc cars will modified to be sold globally
• Their i-MiEV electric car will also be sold globally
• US-built Eclipse coupes will be exported to China, beginning later this year.
Not bad considering they were on the verge of bankruptcy just a few short years ago...
Continue reading...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland March 13, 2008, 5:00 AM
- Categories: Mitsubishi
March 7, 2008
"Come fly with me, let's fly, let's fly away..."
Interesting. Mitsubishi has invited Toyota to invest in a passenger jet plane project.
Toyota spokeswoman Kayo Doi said: "Mitsubishi Heavy has invited us to invest (in the venture) and we are considering it." To date no decision has been made by Toyota.
If Toyota decides to go forth with this, I wonder if FHI (Subaru) might also be involved, as they have a ton of aircraft experience, and are partially owned by Toyota?..
Continue reading...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland March 7, 2008, 5:00 AM
- Categories: Honda, Mitsubishi, Subaru, Toyota
March 4, 2008
After last week’s announcement that the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback will make it to the U.S., the debut of the Prototype S at this year’s Geneva auto show was a little more interesting. Normally we don’t get the hatchback version of anything, but this five-door Lancer should be in dealers by the end of the year.
This may be labeled a prototype, but it’s about 95 percent of what you’ll see in the production version. The Evolution hood won’t stay, and neither will those headlights or the 19-inch wheels and tires. And don’t expect to see Orange Metallic Flake on the color sheet either. What you can expect is the same lineup of engines currently offered on the standard Lancer sedan along with a little extra cargo room in back.
Will there be an Evolution version to take on the Subaru WRX STI hatch? Don’t count on it. –- Ed Hellwig, Senior Editor, Inside Line
Continue reading...
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- Posted by: Ed Hellwig March 4, 2008, 8:51 AM
- Categories: Geneva Motor Show, Hatchbacks, Mitsubishi
March 3, 2008
First reports of about the Lancer Sportback indicated that this might be a Europe-only model. Now it's been confirmed that it will be coming to the United States as well. Pictured above is the Mitsubishi Prototype-S concept, which will debut at Geneva, and is very close to what we can expect to see in showrooms.
So this is good news for Mitsubishi fans...
Continue reading...
February 25, 2008
What you see here is the Mitsubishi Prototype S, with the "S" standing for "Sportback." If you remember, Mitsubishi showed a Sportback concept (middle picture) before.
Remember? How could you forget, as that concept was drop-dead gorgeous!
Unfortunately, as concepts move from "concept" to "production," often something gets lost in the translation, as is the case here...
Continue reading...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland February 25, 2008, 5:00 AM
- Categories: All Auto Shows, Geneva Motor Show, Hatchbacks, Mitsubishi
February 7, 2008
As a nice break from all the new cars and concepts, here's a few semi-oldies that have been aged to perfection:
BMW 2002 Tii
Mercedes-Benz 300SEL 6.3
Mitsubishi Galant GTO-R73X
New models and new concepts are fine but these three automakers obviously think there's something to be said for heritage. We agree. -- Brian Moody, Road Test Editor
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- Posted by: Brian Moody February 7, 2008, 2:33 PM
- Categories: BMW, Chicago Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi
Two years. That's about as long as we'll have to wait for an entirely new Mitsubishi Galant, which should look a fair amount like the handsome Concept-ZT from the Tokyo auto show. Meanwhile, Mitsubishi offers this 2009 version with new front and rear styling. And we can honestly say the new rear with quasi-Lancer taillight is a genuine improvement...
Continue reading...
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- Posted by: Daniel Pund February 7, 2008, 9:10 AM
- Categories: Chicago Auto Show, Mitsubishi
February 4, 2008
Mitsubishi will use the Chicago Auto Show to introduce their "freshened" 2009 Eclipse. The 3.8 V6 engine gets bumped up to 265 horsepower / 262 pound-feet of torque, as well as getting a few other tweaks. It can be had with either a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic with manual shift control.
I'm sure it's all well and good, but I find it a bit ironic that Mitsubishi's "sport coupe" to be less exciting than their EVO "sedan." Anyone else agree?
Here's Inside Line's take: 2008 Chicago Auto Show Preview: 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse
January 25, 2008
There have been rumors of an upcoming Lancer hatch for sometime. In fact Straightline did a blog not long ago that pictured just such a car (Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart a-comin'). Now there's more news/rumors about this vehicle up on the Net. According to Carscoop, the car will appear at the upcoming Geneva auto show...
Continue reading...
January 15, 2008
The all-new Mitsubishi Evos and Subaru STI have gone through a civilized redesign. But can they still perform?
Inside Line takes an Evo GSR, an Evo MR and a WRX STI to the track...
Continue reading...
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- Posted by: Donna DeRosa January 15, 2008, 12:26 PM
- Categories: Mitsubishi, Subaru
January 13, 2008
After hearing "go time" in one promo video after another, we were mildly pumped to see Mitsubishi's two world debuts. Then its CEO came out and started to go over sales numbers. Apparently, in Japan "go time" translates into something like 9 percent annual growth on an adjusted sales weighted basis
It didn't matter, though. We were waiting to see the introduction of the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart and it wasn't a disappointment...
Continue reading...
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- Posted by: Ed Hellwig January 13, 2008, 4:42 PM
- Categories: Detroit Auto Show, Mitsubishi, Sedans
Supposedly the all-wheel-drive Mitsubishi Concept-RA has a turbocharged 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel that cranks 201 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, but to tell you the truth, we don't really care.
With its aerodynamic lines and motorized butterfly doors, the Concept-RA is just so darn nice to look at, the high-output clean diesel partnered with Mitsubishi's twin-clutch SST transmission is just a bonus.
Mitsubishi says the Concept-RA diesel coupe is a car you'd "need not imagine, just reach out and touch it."
How about build it? -- Kelly Toepke, News Editor
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- Posted by: Kelly Toepke January 13, 2008, 3:58 PM
- Categories: Detroit Auto Show, Mitsubishi
January 11, 2008
From the press release:
Lancer Evolution GSR - DOHC I4 MIVEC Turbo
(2.0L/5MT)
$32,990.00
5-Speed Manual
Options and Accessories pricing after the jump.
Continue reading...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland January 11, 2008, 1:46 PM
- Categories: Mitsubishi, Sports Cars
January 9, 2008
Can't afford the new Nissan GT-R? Well, you might want to check out the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X GSR that goes on sale this February.
It's equipped with a 291-hp turbocharged engine, a 5-speed manual and all-wheel drive. It's not the fastest Evo ever, but it may be the best...
Continue reading...
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- Posted by: Donna DeRosa January 9, 2008, 12:51 PM
- Categories: Mitsubishi
December 31, 2007
More rumors about the future AWD Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart are circulating. The Ralliart will be a direct competitor to the Subaru WRX in that it will be essentially a detuned EVO, much like the WRX is a (much!) de-tuned STI. Also rumored is a possible 5-door version, similar to the 5-door concept pictured above, that would compliment the 4-door sedan.
This is great news for Mitsubishi fans who love the EVO, but who want something a bit less hard-core...
Continue reading...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland December 31, 2007, 5:00 AM
- Categories: Mitsubishi, Subaru
December 13, 2007
The new 2008 Evo 5-speed, the GSR model, will begin at $34K. The top-of-the-line MR model, with the 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (Twin Clutch-Sequential Sportshift (TC-SST)) will start at $39K. This is a rather healthy jump over the outgoing model's MSRP, which ranged from $28,679 to $35,189.
Expensive, yes; but right in line with what Subaru is asking fro their new STI...
Continue reading...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland December 13, 2007, 2:02 PM
- Categories: Mitsubishi, Sports Cars
December 11, 2007
Two turbocharged, all-wheel-drive supercars do battle in the shadow of Mt. Fuji in Japan.
It's the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X versus the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI...
Continue reading...
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- Posted by: Donna DeRosa December 11, 2007, 1:59 PM
- Categories: Mitsubishi, Subaru
December 7, 2007
No, the picture above is not it, but rather a Suzuki Grand Vitara-based concept that Suzuki showed in Tokyo a few years ago.
Anyway, Suzuki is going to show a new pickup at the Chicago Auto Show, and it's expected to wear the Equator name tag.
It had been long rumored that Suzuki partnered with Nissan to do a pickup, and it was to be spun off the Frontier. Now as many folks here know I'm no fan of badge-engineered vehicles; never have been, never will be...
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November 15, 2007
We've seen the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution before. You've seen the Evo before. Your Grandma Jean and her friend Esther have probably seen it, too. On Day 1 of the show, Mitsubishi didn't even bother covering it up with black sheets...
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- Posted by: JRiz November 15, 2007, 11:43 AM
- Categories: LA Auto Show, Mitsubishi
November 12, 2007
Thanks to our very own Edmunds in-house Subie guru, Loren, we have some images of the all-new US-spec Subaru STI taken at Laguna Seca Raceway. The new STl will be introduced at the LA auto show in a few days.
And in somewhat related news, the STI's arch rival, the all-new Mitsubishi Evo has hit a snag with its Dual Clutch transmission. It turns out that some last-minute glitches have turned up, and Mitsubishi wisely decided to postpone that option for a few months until the gremlins have been worked out...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland November 12, 2007, 5:00 AM
- Categories: All Auto Shows, LA Auto Show, Mitsubishi, Sports Cars, Subaru
October 24, 2007
Or maybe it's the Mitsubishi Evolution X. Or it could be the Mitsubishi Evo. Or it could be the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X. But it's not the Mitsubishi Galant Fortis, even though that is actually a Lancer...
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- Posted by: Daniel Pund October 24, 2007, 7:28 PM
- Categories: Mitsubishi, Sedans, Tokyo Motor Show
While it's several months out, and we still have Tokyo, SEMA and the LA shows to do, the folks running the Detroit show have let loose with some teaser info regarding this January event.
From the NAIAS October newsletter:
Ford will unveil a new small concept vehicle for the U.S. market that will share the underbody with a concept that Ford unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. The Ford Verve (rendering pictured above), revealed in Frankfurt, is a crossover vehicle carried on a small B-segment platform...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland October 24, 2007, 4:00 AM
- Categories: All Auto Shows, Detroit Auto Show, Ford, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Subaru, Suzuki
October 23, 2007
As at any auto show, there are concept cars and there are "concept cars." Some concepts are there just as eye candy and a workout for designers' oddest fantasies. (Many of this variety of concept are actually edible.) Other concepts exist to prepare the press and public for a production vehicle. The Mitsubishi concept with the really unfortunate name, the ZT, is of the latter variety. It is a styling concept for the next-generation Mitsubishi large sedan...
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- Posted by: Daniel Pund October 23, 2007, 10:29 PM
- Categories: Mitsubishi, Sedans, Tokyo Motor Show
September 12, 2007
Look familiar? Both the Peugeot 4007 and Citroen C Crosser are essentially the Mitsubishi Outlander. Each version has a slightly different nose but inside it looks just like the Mitsu, chevron or lion logo on the steering wheel notwithstanding.
My favorite part is how garish and un-European the large subwoofer and Rockford Fosgate logo look when you open the rear tailgate...
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- Posted by: Brian Moody September 12, 2007, 11:10 PM
- Categories: Citroen, Frankfurt Auto Show, Mitsubishi, Peugeot
September 11, 2007
Although the second-generation Outlander has gone over rather well in the U.S., it's too big and thirsty to appeal to most European buyers. Much like the VW Tiguan and Ford Kuga, Mitsubishi's Concept-cX is an attempt to sate Europeans' SUV desires without losing the battle for fuel economy and CO2 reduction.
Mitsubishi officials wouldn't disclose the Concept-cX's platform origins, but considering its 99-inch wheelbase is within five inches of the 2008 Lancer and its 59.4-inch track is less than an inch narrower, it's a pretty safe bet these two are at least distantly related.
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- Posted by: Erin Riches September 11, 2007, 7:11 AM
- Categories: Diesels, Frankfurt Auto Show, Mitsubishi, SUVs
September 10, 2007
There's a new player in the compact crossover arena: the Nissan Rogue. How will it fare against the leaders in this market segment?
We rounded up the Rogue, a Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V and Mitsubishi Outlander and put them to the test.
Read the Crossover Comparison Test on Inside Line...
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- Posted by: Donna DeRosa September 10, 2007, 11:20 AM
- Categories: Honda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, SUVs, Toyota
July 26, 2007
This is either a stripped down Lancer Evolution, or the often talked about but never seen 2008 Lancer Ralliart. Forget about the old Ralliart that offered nothing more than a body kit and wheels, this next generation version is expected to get AWD and a turbocharged four-cylinder with roughly 220hp-230hp -- you know, like a certain other Japanese sedan, er hatchback. Add in the Lancer's tasteful styling and nicely trimmed interior, not to mention options like navigation, a 30G hard drive and Bluetooth, and it's not looking good for the WRX.
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- Posted by: Ed Hellwig July 26, 2007, 11:48 PM
- Categories: Future Vehicles, Mitsubishi, Sedans, Spy Photos
July 24, 2007
Good news for Japanese auto brands Honda, Nissan, Toyota, Mazda and Mitsubishi as Riken Corp's factory that was damage in the earthquake last week has resumed production.
Economy Minister Hiroko Ota said that she did not expect the production stoppages to have a long-term impact on Japan's auto industry.
"If they can make up production over the next year, I don't see a major impact. Still, there will be a short-term one," she told reporters at a regular press conference...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland July 24, 2007, 6:07 AM
- Categories: Auto Industry, Honda, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Toyota
July 18, 2007
Monday's earthquake in Japan has halted the production of many car factories in Japan. Riken Corp.'s plant at Kashiwazaki city, near the epicenter of Monday's magnitude 6.8 quake, was heavily damaged. They are a major parts supplier to many Japanese carmakers, and without parts, many factories have to shut down.
Those affected are Toyota; Nissan; Mitsubishi and FHI, maker of Subarus...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland July 18, 2007, 8:11 AM
- Categories: Auto Industry, Honda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota
July 16, 2007
Mitsubishi's annual MOD (Mitsubishi Owner's Day) brought out more Evos and custom Lancers than we could count. The event also included aftermarket vendors, plenty of food and a dyno shootout.
For those who think the Lancer began life at about the same time as Play Station, a few Mitsu owner's offered proof to the contrary. Sold as the Dodge and Plymouth Colt in the US, MOD had several examples that had been restored to their former Mitsubishi glory...
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- Posted by: Brian Moody July 16, 2007, 6:21 PM
- Categories: Carnival of Cars, Mitsubishi
July 10, 2007
Those who get their fix on high-tech engineering will likely have to be treated for an overdose once they digest what Mitsubishi has in store for the new EVO. The car has what they call S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control), which, despite having a name that sounds disturbing close to Acura's SH-AWD, could be the cat's pajamas for these types of systems. In addition, the car will come with an automated 6-speed dual clutch transmission. ...And lets not forget the 2.0L, 300hp+ engine!..
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- Posted by: Bob Holland July 10, 2007, 12:32 PM
- Categories: Car Tech, Mitsubishi, Sports Cars
July 3, 2007
You may have seen the carefully orchestrated press photos of the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, but these are the first spy photos of the same car on the street sans camouflage. Taken as the car was making some hot laps on the Nurburgring test track, this prototype doesn’t reveal anything new. It still has the nicely chiseled features that give it a more aggressive look than its main rival -- the 2009 Subaru WRX STI. Look for the debut of both vehicles at the Tokyo auto show in Oct...
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April 26, 2007
Mitsubishi's hyper-performance sedan, the EVO X, was just announced over in the Land of the Rising Sun. What we see is not much of a surprise, as it matches the EVO concept pretty closely. In Japan it will be known as the Evolution X, whereas here in the USA the "X" aspect will be dropped. The car reportedly has an all-new AWD/handling system...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland April 26, 2007, 7:32 AM
- Categories: Mitsubishi, Subaru
March 16, 2007
Well, here are the first of what are sure to be many spy photos of the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X. Caught somewhere in California, this Evo prototype looks about like we expected. In other words, it's exactly like the Prototype X "concept" shown in Detroit earlier this year. So what's different? Well, it's clear this prototype has production headlights supplemented by a pair of foglights underneath...
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- Posted by: Ed Hellwig March 16, 2007, 11:34 AM
- Categories: Future Vehicles, Mitsubishi, Sedans, Spy Photos
January 10, 2007
Hmmm... first we had the Subaru STI vs. Mitsubishi EVO matchup, can we now expect a similar comparo with a VW Rabbit CDI vs. Mitsubishi diesel?..
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- Posted by: Bob Holland January 10, 2007, 1:31 PM
- Categories: Mitsubishi
January 8, 2007
Bright lights, Motor City. Amidst an intense flashing red light show, Mitsubishi's Prototype X "concept" vehicle made its way to the stage.
C'mon, Mitsu. You know you wanna brag about the all-new Lancer Evolution X and its magnesium alloy paddle shifters, so let's drop this concept act and shout your intentions to the high heavens...
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- Posted by: Kelly Toepke January 8, 2007, 2:26 PM
- Categories: Detroit Auto Show, Mitsubishi, Sports Cars
As part of a three year restructuring plan, Mitsubishi says a main focus is platform sharing among new global models. Making good on that promise, the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer is set to ride on the all-new 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander platform. This platform is expected to carry several future vehicles, with a potential sales volume of three million vehicles worldwide.
Mitsubishi says the 2008 Lancer is new from the rubber to the roof with more than 50 new features and enhancements...
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- Posted by: Kelly Toepke January 8, 2007, 1:33 PM
- Categories: Detroit Auto Show, Mitsubishi, Sedans
December 27, 2006
Anybody who has followed the Dakar Rally knows that in the past that Mitsubishis have pretty much ruled the roost. I'm sure that this year Mitsubishi has no intention of reversing history here, as they've just presented their new-and-improved Mitsubishi's Dakar Rally Team to the press.
I've been following the Dakar for years. This event, in which cars, trucks—I mean really HUGE trucks!—and motorcycles compete (the Mitsubishis are considered "cars"); and the Isle of Man TT (here and here), arguably the most difficult and dangerous racing event in the world; are by far my two favorite TV motorsport events...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland December 27, 2006, 8:53 AM
- Categories: Mitsubishi, Motorsports
December 8, 2006
It's not quite the Lancer Evolution X, but these official shots of the standard 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer are as close as you’re going to get until the Evo's debut at the 2007 Detroit auto show.
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- Posted by: Ed Hellwig December 8, 2006, 6:10 PM
- Categories: Detroit Auto Show, Mitsubishi, Sedans
November 30, 2006
Mitsubishi had this Lancer Evolution IX in their booth, which itself is not news. However, this one, turned out by Vishnu Tuning of northern California, has dual fuel capability. It consumes either normal premium unleaded or E85 ethanol. Sure, GM's been all about going yellow for months. But do any of their E85 offerings produce 420 horsepower on the stuff like this one?
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- Posted by: J to the K November 30, 2006, 3:54 PM
- Categories: LA Auto Show, Mitsubishi, Sedans, Sports Cars, Trends
October 26, 2006
Autoblog has uncovered yet another spin-off of the Mitsubishi Outlander: the Citroen C-Crosser. I'm not sure which is stranger, the vehicle or its name? In any event, this is a bit better looking than the Peugeot 4007 version. Actually, it's a whole lot better looking than the 4007...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland October 26, 2006, 7:11 AM
- Categories: Citroen, Mitsubishi, SUVs
October 22, 2006
The future vehicle news was sparse in this week's edition of Automotive News. The most notable piece of information came from an article discussing Bentley. Seems as though the British company is working up a coupe version of its top-of-the-line Arnage sedan and it could be called the Havana. CEO Andrew Stuart didn't directly confirm its existence, but he did note that Bentley currently has sedan, convertible and coupe versions of the Continental GT. Look for the new coupe to show up as a lightly disguised concept in Geneva next spring.
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October 8, 2006
This week's issue of Automotive News was packed with plenty of stories related to future vehicles, so we'll get right to it. Mitsubishi plans to pick up where GM left off by introducing an electric based on its Concept-CT MIEV shown in Detroit earlier this year. It will use lithium ion batteries and a unique drive system which puts a motor at each wheel. No cost or timing specifics were announced, but don't expect to see it for at least another two or three years.
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- Posted by: Ed Hellwig October 8, 2006, 11:41 PM
- Categories: Audi, BMW, Chrysler, Detroit Auto Show, Ford, Future Vehicles, General Motors, Jeep, LA Auto Show, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Rolls-Royce, Toyota, Volkswagen
September 17, 2006
As expected, this week's issue of Automotive News features a considerable amount of info on Ford's future product plans, but since most of that info was covered late last week we'll focus elsewhere for now. Probably the most interesting piece of information came from Scion.
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- Posted by: Ed Hellwig September 17, 2006, 10:58 PM
- Categories: Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Future Vehicles, Hyundai, Lincoln, Mercury, Mitsubishi, Scion
September 11, 2006
A new Mitsubishi Pajero (Montero) will debut at the Paris car show. At first glance it appears to be all new, but under closer inspection one can see that it shares some items with the outgoing model.
No word yet as to whether we will see it here in the USA. Even with the precarious situation Mitsubishi is in here, and with the ever increasingly hostile SUV environment, I would still like to see it sold here...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland September 11, 2006, 12:00 AM
- Categories: All Auto Shows, Mitsubishi, Paris Auto Show, SUVs
July 21, 2006
Another car company long and deep in trouble is Mitsubishi, which has just sent Shiro Futaki from Japan to the USA to right the sinking ship. Futaki is no stranger to these shores, as he helped set up the joint-venture Diamond Star Motors with Chrysler back in 1985.
Snippet: Some would say turning around an operation that has been knee-deep in red ink for three years is daunting; others would say it's impossible.
"You can't cost-cut your way to prosperity," said Jim Hossack, a vice president of AutoPacific, an industry research and consulting firm...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland July 21, 2006, 5:53 AM
- Categories: Mitsubishi, Trends
July 7, 2006
Mitsubishi Fuso has just introduced in Japan a new turbodiesel hybrid light truck called the Canter Eco. Mitsubishi claims it to be the cleanest light truck in the world. No word yet as to whether it will be sold here.
Snippet: The Canter Eco Hybrid achieves Ecology/Economy/Easy Drive through state-of-the-art design and components...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland July 7, 2006, 12:00 AM
- Categories: Diesels, Hybrids, Mitsubishi, Trends
June 30, 2006
I'm a big fan of the smart fortwo, which we will be getting in 2008, but less so of the four-door forfour model. So I'm not terribly upset that this model is getting the ax. The tiny fortwo is the essence of cool and hip. It's also very timely...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland June 30, 2006, 6:02 AM
- Categories: Hatchbacks, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, SMART, Sedans, Trends
June 2, 2006
In a remarkable bit of candor, a Mitsubishi executive stated the other day that if the upcoming all-new Lancer and Outlander are not successful, Mitsubishi may withdraw from the US. The report first surfaced in Automotive News, and in a bit of damage control, Mitsubishi has strongly denying any intentions of pulling out of this market.
Ya gotta wonder though... The only Mitsubishi that has had any sort of success here in recent years is the EVO, which is a hard-core rally-bred street brawler; not exactly a volume seller, that will pull Mitsu out of the red...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland June 2, 2006, 12:00 AM
- Categories: Mitsubishi
May 24, 2006
Probably, you've read our April feature on the upcoming Lancer Evolution X, in which we drove an Evo X test mule (with an Evo VIII drivetrain & bodywork) in the snow. On Sunday we got to drive a slightly more advanced version (shown in the photo) that incorporates Active Steering Control through an autocross/slalom course on Mitsubishi's proving grounds in Okazaki, Japan. Like BMW's active steering system, this setup uses a quicker steering ratio at low speeds, a slower ratio at high speeds. It's designed to work with the Active Yaw Control system (a bit of technology Mitsu has yet to offer on U.S...
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- Posted by: Erin Riches May 24, 2006, 3:32 PM
- Categories: Mitsubishi, Sedans, Sports Cars
April 13, 2006
Thank you Mitsubishi for not playing techno music on your auto show stand. The refreshing blend of international pop/hip hop was probably the best music I've heard in a year of auto shows. Anytime a car company wants to appeal to younger buyer, they blast the techno. The 90s over and I'm so over techno - and so is every other sane person...
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- Posted by: Brian Moody April 13, 2006, 10:22 AM
- Categories: All Auto Shows, Mitsubishi, New York Auto Show, SUVs
March 14, 2006
Last year, while visiting the Detroit car show on "press days," I saw two brand new and two distinctly different pickups: The Honda Ridgeline and the Mitsubishi Raider.
The Ridgeline injects some really new and innovative thinking into a market segment that historically accepts change and new thinking as easily as Republicans accept tax increases. Best of all, the ideas presented on the Ridgeline work and are ever so practical; so practical in fact, you have to wonder why they haven't showed up until now.
The Raider, on the other hand, is nothing more than another "me-too-wannabe" effort, designed solely to give Mistusbishi dealers a truck to sell...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland March 14, 2006, 1:00 AM
- Categories: Mitsubishi, Trends, Trucks
February 8, 2006
A minute ago Mitsubishi took the sheet off the 2007 Galant Ralliart, a hot rod version of its midsize sedan. The car looks good, but the three tuned up Eclipse and Eclipse Spyders also parked in the Mitsubishi booth look even better. Although they're stock, the two Lancer Evos parked to the left of the stage don't suck either.
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- Posted by: Scott Oldham February 8, 2006, 2:38 PM
- Categories: All Auto Shows, Chicago Auto Show, Mitsubishi
January 19, 2006
This time of the year there is a lot of show-related car news; and this time it's about the Geneva Motor Show (March), and Mitsubishi's latest offering.
Mitsubishi Europe plans on offering the nifty new Colt CZC. This is a 1500cc coupe-cabriolet, which means it's a convertible with a folding hardtop. To the best of my knowledge, I think this is the first time that a hardtop-convertible has been offered in this vehicle class...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland January 19, 2006, 7:10 AM
- Categories: All Auto Shows, Geneva Motor Show, Mitsubishi
January 10, 2006
The Eclipse coupe was a looker, but this new 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder tops that one. Powertrains remain as is, and the roadster is about 200 pounds heavier than the coupe, which is to be expected.
Full Detroit Auto Show coverage: 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder
January 9, 2006
If you're a city-dweller, the Mitsubishi Concept-CT should be on your wish list. It's size, and dare I say "cute factor" screams urban. Don't let the cute factor fool you - it's a high-tech wonder as well.
Unique in that it has both a hybrid gasoline-electric drive and the potential for electric-only operation, the Concept-CT is an exercise in technology, utility and efficiency. How?? Mitsubishi's MIEV, which stands for Mitsubishi In-wheel-motor Electric Vehicle. MIEV places an electric motor in each wheel eliminating the need for a driveshaft in the all-wheel-drive CT.
Read our complete show coverage on the Concept-CT
December 29, 2005
More evidence that Americans are getting fatter. Now a number of car companies are putting in wider seats for vehicles to be sold in the USA.
Toyota, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Subaru and Mitsubishi are all offering
the wide-body seats (Yikes, even the Mitsubishi EVO has fatso seats!).
I can already see Leno and Letterman doing a standup bit on this
topic...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland December 29, 2005, 1:00 AM
- Categories: Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Subaru, Toyota, Trends
December 16, 2005
I'm sorry to see this happen, as I'm a huge fan of the WRC championship—give me the WRC over NASCAR any day of the week!
It appears that the cost of putting forth a competitive team is just
too much for several manufacturers, and they just weren't seeing a good
return on their investment. Therefore Citroen, Peugeot and Skoda will
not be fielding factory teams for the 2006 season. Mitsubishi has also just announced that they will pull out too (here)...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland December 16, 2005, 1:00 AM
- Categories: Ford, Mitsubishi, Subaru, Trends
November 14, 2005
Huh? What's this mean?
Friday Goldman Sachs bought the remaining Mitsubishi Motors shares from
DC. Today, three days later, they sell most of theses shares...
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- Posted by: Bob Holland November 14, 2005, 7:52 AM
- Categories: Mitsubishi
