Car Releases

2005 Mitsubishi Colt Preview

August 23, 2004

It would only be fitting if this higher performance motor would be fitted to a sporty body, which is why Mitsubishi will only

The handsome, European-look Colt CZ3, especially in CZT trim (shown) uses a monobox style body that has been designed specifically to be sporty-looking and trendy. (Photo: Mitsubishi Motors North America)

offer the turbocharged engine in the 3-door hatchback version of the Colt. The handsome, European-look Colt CZ3 uses a monobox style body like its five-door counterpart, however it's been styled specifically to be sporty-looking and trendy. Compared to the five-door, all body panels excepting the hood and front bumper are unique instead of directly carrying over. The resulting look is squat, wedgy and quite chic. Heavily flared fenders roll outwards from the body, unlike the flat ones on the 5-door hatchback, while large 16-inch alloy wheels and a tail spoiler help to complete the "tough guy" appearance package of the CZT hatchback.

The CZT will make its world debut at the Paris Motor Show this September, and it will be part of the new CZ3 three-door range available as of 2005. Pricing hasn't been announced, but like the 5-door Colt, it will be competitive.

But will such a car, along with the regular CZ3 and 5-door Colt be competitive in North America? The subcompact and compact market is much more profitable in Europe, being that even entry-level cars cost a great deal more than anything similarly available in Canada or the U.S. For this reason automakers are leery of bringing Euro models across the Atlantic as is. Still, there's the strong argument of Mitsubishi's need to offer something in the subcompact category to fight against Toyota's Echo, Chevy's Aveo and the South Korean entry models.

Specifications:

Body Type: 3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback
Layout: front engine, FWD
Base Engine: 109 hp, 1.5-L, 16-valve, DOHC I-4
Optional Engine: 150 hp, 1.5-L, 16-valve, DOHC turbocharged I-4
Transmission: 5-spd manual (opt auto, CVT)
Brakes (front/rear): disc/drum (opt rear disc)
Seating Capacity: 4
Competitors: Chevy Aveo, Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio, Pontiac Wave, Suzuki Sprint+, Toyota Echo Hatchback/Echo
Web Site: www.mitsubishicars.ca

Note: Additional larger photos are available in the photo album.