Mitsubishi Motors invited us to preview some of the models, which will probably have a chance to make it across the pond, after a thoroughout test drive of the awesome Lancer Evolution.
They brought us the Grandis mini-minivan, which is similar to execution to Mazda5. The “i” which is a Japanese K-Car, Colt 1.5 and Colt Ralliart 1.6 turbo hatchbacks.
The vehicle that have the biggest potential for Canadian market has to be Grandis. This mini-minivan is the size of a Sienna but with the engine displacement of a Mazda5. Its not only have plenty of space with a nicely finished interior. Its 160hp and 160 lb/ft of torque 2.4 liter MIVEC engine are more than capable of travelling 7 persons in comfort. Its refined and eager driving manners should put this Grandis right at the heart of Mazda5 and Kia Rondo, especially given Mitsubishi’s aggressive pricing and packaging.
Both Colt and Colt Ralliart are another potential winners of Mitsubishi. Consider the runaway succeed of the Fit and Yaris, its impossible for Mitsubishi of not importing Colt. The Colt we previewed have a 1.5 liter MIVEC with 105hp and 110 lb/ft of torque, while the Colt Ralliart is good for aplentry 154 hp and 157 lb/ft of torque. Both matched to the INVECS-3 CVT gearboxs. On the Rallart, however, its a 6-speed instead of a 5-speed in a standard Colt. The performance of the Colt Ralliart Version-R is impressive even with the manumatic. The standard Recaro cloth seats are another item that Mitsubishi should bring it to Canada as standard equipment. The interior materials and fit-and-finish are up to the standards in this subcompact segment. Even with Ralliart’s sports suspension, we found it has too much understeer and body rolls. The biggest drawback is the high center of gravity Mitsubishi engineered the Colt. But this is totally acceptable for standard Colt, since its status will be a point A to B grocery getter. But for Ralliart Version-R, we expect the center hip point to be lowered. Another pet peeve is the lack of steering feel through the electric power steering. Its just too numb and light, especially for a hot hatch.
Last but not least, is the “i”. Its basically a 4-door Smart For2. This rear-mounted engine subcompact has plenty of interior space for 4 persons. Both the passenger and cargo space are aplentry for a daily commuter. Its 659cc 12-valve 3-cylinder MIVEC engine with turbo engine is designed with torque in mind. 69 lb/ft to be exact, arrives at 3000rpm is more than enough for this 900kg little car. Its comfortable to drive, easy to handle. And for a grocery getter, this “i” would be perfect for a city commute. Its 13″ wheels doesn’t provide lots of grip but handle confidently. Steering remains light and somewhat lack of feel. But its precise enough for its status of life. Unfortunately, the brake pedal feels mushy and numb. Better tires might be able to give this “i” a better braking performance. Its definitely a smart city car concept with both style and substance to boot. Given the succeed of Smart For2, Mitsubishi should given “i” a serious consideration for its more versatile and smart execution, it might be an even better value equation than a For2.
The Grandis could very likely make it over the continent as its due for a redesign. Colt is another high possibility due to the skyrocketing gas prices. We also wish Mitsubishi also considering the new Delica D:5 luxury minivan and Pajero luxury SUV to complete its model revitalization.