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.

Video: 2007 Dakar Rally Winner Mitsubishi Pajero EVO

Formerly known as the Paris-Dakar Rally, the Dakar Rally is considered to be the toughest, the most dangerous but also the most famous off-road rally course in the world. However, that doesn’t seem to be a problem for Mitsubishi, which managed its seventh consecutive victory last Sunday with the Pajero EVO which was driven by the French crew of Stephane Peterhansel and Jean-Paul Cottret.

Note that from the 185 cars, 247 bikes and quads and 85 trucks that entered the race, only 109 cars, 132 bikes and quads and 60 trucks managed to make it to the finish line in Dakar after a shortened route of 7,915km, of which 4,309km were competitive.

Technorati: Mitsubishi+Pajero+EVO, Dakar+Rally, Youtube, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, Carscoop, blogs, 2007

One for the kids: Baby Mitsubishi Lancer EVO X!

If you liked the MINI-SX (Honda Beat NSX lookalike) then your surely going to love the midget version of the Mitsubishi Prototype X that was shown right next to the real thing at the Tokyo Auto Salon (12 to 14th of January). According to Nihoncarandbike, the Baby EVO X is drivable as its equipped with 4 small seats and an engine. Now, wouldn’t you agree that this would make one hell of a “kei” car? Via: Nihoncarandbike

Technorati : Mitsubishi+Prototype+X, Mitsubishi+lancer+EVO, Tokyo+Auto+Salon, gadgets, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, Carscoop, blogs, 2007, pictures, images

EVO powered Sports Coupe: The 350-500Hp X Works Automotive X1 Sportscar

Now don’t tell me that the front end doesn’t remind you of the latest EVO X concept, the Prototype X. And why shouldn’t it as the X1 Sportscar is not only made by Mitsubishi Lancer Evo tuner specialist, X-Works Automotive (based in the UK) but it’s also fitted with the an EVO derived 2.0-litre turbocharged engine available in various versions producing from 350 to 500Hp.

Unfortunately, like its Subaru-powered, 350Hp Prodrive P2 Coupe stablemate that was unveiled early last year (click here for pictures to refresh your memory ) the X1 looks like it was made by people who’re addicted to LEGOs. Of course that's nothing that a little "EVO" magic can't solve. Via: Jalopnik

PRESS RELEASE: We are delighted to announce that our X Works Automotive Concept X1 Sportscar will be available for viewing in our Xtreme showroom from Friday 19th January 2007 until Sunday 21st January, opeing times will be Friday / Saturday 9.00am - 5.00pm and Sunday 11.00am - 4.00pm. The car has been developed over the last 30 months by X-Works Automotive with Xtreme Automobiles Ltd being the first dealer appointed in the UK. The X1 Concept Car uses a unique carbon composite technology for the manufacture of the cars passenger cell. Attached to this are lightweight aluminium and carbon subframes carrying the drivetrain components.

The composite technology provides an incredibly stiff platform and also helps keep the cars weight down to a lightweight 1180kg. Combined with the race honed chassis and phenomenal 4 cylinder turbo charged 350 bhp engine, this provides truly electrifying performance. Tuning options of up to 500 bhp are of course available, Recaro CS seats are fitted as standard. There is also a 1000 kg competition version planned for those increasingly popular track days or outright competition use. The cars designers, Andrew Borrowman and Sean Prendergast, studied Automotive Design Engineering at the University of Hertfordshire, following which they worked at Rover, Panther Cars and Grand Prix Engineering Services between them. They have also run their own composites company designing and manufacturing for the likes of Prodrive, Alvis and JCB, just to name a few.

Projected retail price for the X1 is £45,000 and i'm sure you must agree, this is tremendous value, given the technology and performance this sportscar offers. For those unable to visit us over the weekend of the 19th January 2007 for a close up and personal viewing, the X1 concept car will be on display on the Recaro stand at the Autosports International Show at the NEC, from the 11th to 14th January 2007.

• Concept Specification :
• 2 Seat Concept
• Carbon Tub
• Aluminium Subframes and Suspension
• 2 Litre Turbo Charged 350-500 BHP
• 4 Wheel Drive
• 18" Lightweight Alloys with 235/40 Tyres
• 1180kg Road Car
• 1000kg Track Car

Technorati: X+Works+Automotive+X1+Sportscar, Mitsubishi+Lancer+EVO, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, Carscoop, blogs, 2007, pictures, images

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX MR FQ-360: EVO ends its UK career with a 366Hp limited edition version

A word of advice to all you EVO-lovers out there in the UK: If you want an EVO and you have the dough, just go and buy this one and forget you even heard about the Lancer EVO X that’s coming in 2008. The Lancer EVO IX is definitely going to go down as one of the greatest cars of all time, a sure classic of the future. What else do you need; this one gets a Ralliart kit and a blistering 366Hp -good enough for a 0-60mph time in 3,9 sec! Damn, I really want one…

Press Release: Mitsubishi Motors UK has unveiled the final edition of the current generation Lancer Evolution supercar. Just one version of the new Evolution IX MR (‘Mitsubishi Racing’) will be available, powered by a 366bhp version of Mitsubishi’s 2.0-litre turbo engine. 200 units of the Evolution IX MR FQ-360 are now available from Mitsubishi Ralliart dealers, priced from £34,539.

Subtle changes to the specification of the 1997cc 4-cylinder 4G63 twin scroll turbo engine have created a car that delivers an even higher level of performance. True to Mitsubishi’s philosophy of providing “overall driving quality”, the engineers in Japan have made subtle modifications to the turbocharger. The introduction of titanium aluminium alloy turbo fins and reduction in the compressor wheel inlet diameter have improved the engine’s response throughout the rev range.

When the cars arrive in the UK, further engine development work is carried out by Mitsubishi Motors UK’s tuning division, Ralliart, and the independent specialists, HKS. An HKS tuning kit delivers 366bhp at 6887rpm and 363lb ft (492Nm) of torque at 3200rpm. Mitsubishi’s MIVEC variable valve timing technology further enhances the engine’s efficiency, combining improved response with a 3% reduction in fuel consumption.

The Lancer Evolution FQ-360’s performance underlines its reputation as the most affordable supercar on the road. This is a practical, five-seater saloon car that can sprint from 0-60mph in just 3.9 seconds and on to an electronically limited top speed of 157mph. By comparison, the Porsche 911 Carrera 4S, which costs almost twice as much, takes 0.9 seconds longer to reach 60mph from rest.

The engine upgrades are accompanied by subtle but effective changes to the ‘Evo’s’ MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension. Eibach springs have been introduced to complement the Bilstein shock absorbers. These new springs lower the ride height by 10mm at the front and 5mm at the rear, which enhances the car’s high speed stability and allows the Super Active Yaw Control (Super AYC) system to function more effectively. The latter has also been improved to provide a greater distribution of power between the rear wheels, increasing traction, especially on loose surfaces. Mitsubishi’s electronically-controlled four-wheel drive system (4WD) is carried over unchanged.

The aesthetic changes are modest and functional. A new carbon fibre front lip spoiler has been developed to provide additional downforce and improve high speed stability. A rear carbon fibre vortex generator comes fitted as standard. The 11-spoke Speedline Turini alloy wheels are also new and mimic those fitted to Mitsubishi’s tarmac spec rally car. The Yokohama ADVAN AO46 235/45 ZR17 tyres are carried over unchanged, while the Brembo braking system ensures that the Evolution IX MR has the stop to match its go.

The changes inside are equally subtle. Automatic headlights and privacy glass are introduced for the first time, the seats have been redesigned with ‘IX MR’ motifs, the dashboard panel is now finished in ‘Piano Black’ and there are ‘Lancer EVOLUTION’ aluminium scuff protectors on the door frames. Enthusiasts will be delighted to hear that the rally-bred Recaro seats and exquisite Momo steering wheel remain present and correct.

The Lancer Evolution has always been a thoroughly practical, everyday car, and the final edition is no exception. The cabin can seat five in comfort and the boot has a capacity of 530 litres. It is also comprehensively equipped with air-conditioning, electric windows and mirrors, remote central locking and CAT 1 alarm included in the specification.

• Key Features
• Final edition of the current legendary Lancer Evolution supercar
• On-sale now priced from £34,539
• 1997cc turbo engine modified with ECU remap and HKS tuning pack (racing suction pipe, intercooler piping kit, stainless steel down pipe, super dragger exhaust system, high pressure fuel pump assembly, sports cat)
• New turbo with titanium aluminium alloy turbo fins and reduction in compressor inlet diameter
• MIVEC variable valve timing
• Tuned for driveability: 366bhp@6887rpm and 363lb ft@3200rpm
• 0-60mph 3.9 seconds, electronically limited to 157mph
• 17in, 11-spoke Speedline Turini alloy wheels mimic tarmac-spec rally car
• Redesigned carbon fibre front lip spoiler improves aerodynamic efficiency
• Rear carbon fibre vortex generator
• Subtle interior revisions include introduction of ‘Piano black’ fascia inserts and aluminium scuff protectors in the door frames
• Comprehensive luxury specification includes climate control, leather/Alcantara trim, Recaro seats, Momo steering wheel
• Automatic headlights and privacy glass introduced for the first time
• Spacious five seater with 530litre boot capacity offering everyday practicality
• Eibach springs introduced to complement Bilstein shock absorbers. Car lowered by 10mm at the front and 5mm at the rear for improved stability
• Uprated Super Active Yaw Control (Super AYC) system
• Brembo brakes and electronically-controlled 4WD system unchanged

Technorati: Mitsubishi+Lancer+Evolution+IX+MR+FQ-360, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, Carscoop, blogs, 2007, pictures, images