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

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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Detroit Auto Show: Mitsubishi Prototype X or… the 2008 Lancer EVO X

Long live the new king: Here’s the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer EVO X. You heard us. Wipe out that “Prototype X” name out of your head cause what you see –apart from a few minor details like the LED lamps, is what you’ll get a few months after the official unveiling of the production version at the Tokyo Show in October.

Albeit its design is toned down in comparison to the 2005 EVO X Concept, the new EVO is without doubt, a much prettier thing to look at –in or out. Under its new skin, the EVO X or Prototype X if we must (...), showcases an all-new 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and a new high performance all-wheel-drive system called Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC). It also previews a new paddle-shift automated manual transmission that will be offered in the Lancer Evolution for the first time. -Continued: Click “Read More…” below to see the official press release and a high-res gallery

PRESS RELEASE

Coming Soon: Evolution Revolution: The Lancer Evolution has long lived up to its namesake by greatly improving with each successive generation. (Lancer Evolution VIII was the first to be offered in the U.S. market.) As Prototype X demonstrates, the Lancer Evolution will soon make perhaps the largest leap in overall capability seen between two generations of this model. The next Evolution will offer major gains in handling dynamics and technology while maintaining the kind of thrilling turbo engine performance that has made the model a street legend around the world.

Although clearly based on the new Lancer and sharing its distinctive shark-nose grille opening, Prototype X features a unique front end, rear fenders and decklid. Making a maximum-performance statement, Prototype X looks the part of the street-wise sports machine with its boxed fenders, aggressively sloping hood with integral air scoop, 20-inch alloy wheels with massive brakes and the high-tech LED turn signals in the sideview mirrors.

Inside, the deeply contoured bucket seats are upholstered in high-grip Alcantara. An electronic lap counter hints at the car's weekend club racer capability, while the red LED light band that spans the doors and the dash surface might suggest a customizing idea to future customers. The user technology in Prototype X previews what will be available for the next Lancer Evolution. While not all design features and content seen on Prototype X will make it to the production vehicle, the overall design will carry through.

Next-Gen Evolution Power: The engine powering Prototype X - and the next Lancer Evolution - is a turbocharged version of the new aluminum 4B11 2.0-liter DOHC MIVEC engine used in the 2008 Lancer. It will yield the highest power rating ever in an Evolution model. (Since development continues, final engine output figures will be revealed at a later date.) Significantly, the newest Lancer Evolution will have less differentiation from market to market than the previous generations.

The new model's aluminum engine block is a significant 20 kg (53.4 lbs.) lighter than the iron-block 4G63 engine used in all previous Evolution models, which aids weight distribution. In addition, its orientation (exhaust located on bulkhead side) allows for improved placement that helps to lower the center of gravity. Although the new Evolution engine block is lighter, it was designed from the outset for high-performance turbocharged applications. High inherent strength has been achieved partly through over-engineering of the open deck block, and the use of large water jackets and metal areas around each siamesed cylinder bore. The reciprocating assembly of the turbocharged 4B11 is capable of withstanding high levels of boost.

Automated Manual Transmission: Prototype X is equipped with the automated manual transmission with magnesium steering wheel paddle shifters that will be available on the next Lancer Evolution. This new transmission will offer lightning fast, paddle-shift actuated shifting when desired, along with offering a fully automatic mode. This unit is not a conventional torque-converter automatic transmission, but rather a true auto-capable manual similar to that used on some of the world's most notable performance models. For stick shift purists, the next Lancer Evolution will still offer a conventional 5-speed manual transmission. With the 4B11 turbo engine's stronger torque performance, a 5-speed will provide optimal acceleration response.

Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC): The next Lancer Evolution, while still providing the levels of engine performance that appeal to this model's loyal core customers, will expand dynamic capability with the new Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) system. Combining intelligent full-time four-wheel drive with stability control, S-AWC is a further development of the advanced full-time 4WD technology first introduced on the new-generation Outlander SUV for 2007.

In Prototype X this next-generation system combines an Active Center Differential (ACD) with an Active Yaw Control (AYC) rear differential and Active Skid Control (ASC). The AYC rear differential has never been offered on a Lancer Evolution sold in the U.S. market. The combination of all these technologies will help the Lancer Evolution make optimal use of its considerable torque and also ensure the highest level of dynamic capability and stability ever in this model. At the same time, the new technology will further enhance the exhilarating driving performance character that customers have come to expect from this model.

The next Lancer Evolution once again features its own suspension system, replacing steel stampings of the standard Lancer with race-proven forged aluminum components. Due to the high rigidity of the new global C-platform, the Evolution's suspension can be tuned to provide a more compliant and stable ride than before without compromising handling performance - a trait that is expected from a true world-class performance sedan.

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