Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Is Peugeot-Citroën on the verge of buying Mitsubishi?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/is-peugeot-citroen-on-the-verge-of-buying-mitsubishi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/is-peugeot-citroen-on-the-verge-of-buying-mitsubishi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/is-peugeot-citroen-on-the-verge-of-buying-mitsubishi/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


The French and the Japanese have gotten together to form a magic partnership once already with Carlos Ghosn at the helm. The question is, then, can that success be replicated? PSA Peugeot-Citroën seems to hope so, and it is reportedly on the verge of purchasing a controlling stake (somewhere between 30 and 53 percent, depending on the report) in Mitsubishi Motors.

The total price for the acquisition would cost the European automaker over $3 billion and the deal would also include Mitsubishi acquiring a somewhat smaller stake in PSA Peugeot-Citroën - again, similar to the situation between France's Renault and Japan's Nissan.

So, what does Mitsubishi have that Peugeot wants? Three things, apparently: A presence in the States, SUV expertise and, perhaps most importantly, electric vehicle technology. If a deal does indeed take place, the resulting entity would be the sixth largest automaker by sales in the world.

[Source: BusinessWeek]

Is Peugeot-Citroën on the verge of buying Mitsubishi? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>citroenmergermitsubishiMitsubishi MotorsMitsubishiMotorspeugeotpsapsa peugeot citroenpsa peugeot citroen mitsubishiPsaPeugeotCitroenPsaPeugeotCitroenMitsubishitie-upFri, 04 Dec 2009 15:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Best Buy Geek Squads to start testing Mitsubishi i-MiEV]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/best-buy-geek-squad-mitsubishi-i-miev/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/best-buy-geek-squad-mitsubishi-i-miev/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/best-buy-geek-squad-mitsubishi-i-miev/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Mitsubishi Geek Squad i-MiEV - Click above for high-res image gallery

While Mitsubishi didn't unveil any new vehicles at the LA Auto Show today, company president Osamu Masuko did announce the latest step in his company's plan to bring plug-in vehicles to North America. The vehicle - well, one of them - is an all-electric i-MiEV plastered with Best Buy's Geek Squad logo. The electronics giant will start using them in January (after they're shown off at CES) at some Geek Squad locations in California. Details have not yet been totally worked out, but the Geek EVs will start with a fleet of four vehicles and then expand and rotate to other stores over the course of three years. Most likely, the i-MiEVs will be doled out in pairs and the probable early cities where these vehicles will make house calls include Chicago, New York, Portland and San Francisco.

Best Buy plans to use the i-MiEVs just like any other fleet car, with the exception that they will be right-hand drive. Best Buy's Senior Vice President of emerging business, Rick Rommel, told AutoblogGreen that the idea is to learn "how these will fit into a Geek's daily life." The plug-in vehicle tests with Geek Squad are unrelated to how select West Coast Best Buy stores are selling electric bikes. That said, Rommel admits that the key thing is that Best Buy likes to conduct new experiments, and these EVs fit into that general concept.


Gallery: Best Buy Geek Squad i-MIEV


Live photos copyright (C)2009 Sebastian Blanco / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Best Buy Geek Squads to start testing Mitsubishi i-MiEV

Best Buy Geek Squads to start testing Mitsubishi i-MiEV originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShowbest buybest buy electric vehiclesbest buy evsBest Buy Inc.Best Buy StoresBestBuyBestBuyElectricVehiclesBestBuyEvsBestBuyInc.BestBuyStoresGeek SquadGeekSquadi-mievimievla 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009la showLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowlashow2009mievmitsumitsubishimitsubishi imievMitsubishiImievosamu masukoOsamuMasukoPX-MiEVrick rommelRickRommelThu, 03 Dec 2009 17:58:00 EST<![CDATA[UPDATE: U.S. bound Mitsubishi Colt will be an all-new global small car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/breaking-u-s-bound-mitsubishi-colt-will-be-an-all-new-global-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/breaking-u-s-bound-mitsubishi-colt-will-be-an-all-new-global-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/breaking-u-s-bound-mitsubishi-colt-will-be-an-all-new-global-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Yesterday, we reported that Mitsubishi is bringing its small, B-segment Colt to our shores. And that's true, mostly. What we've learned between now and then is that Mitsu isn't bringing over the current Colt, but rather the replacement for the current Colt, i.e. the next Colt. In fact, Mitsubishi Motors Corp. President Osamu Masuko said as much during last month's Tokyo Motor Show. Here's what he told Automotive News:
"Mitsubishi will follow that with a global small car in 2012. That car will be smaller than the Colt, which is sold in Japan and Europe, and will have a 1.0- to 1.3-liter gasoline engine. A plug-in hybrid version and all-electric version of the global small car are scheduled for 2013. Mitsubishi is studying which of those would best suit the United States.
The scoop, then, is that this new global small car will be called Colt. As opposed to say, Havasu.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

UPDATE: U.S. bound Mitsubishi Colt will be an all-new global small car originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ColtLA 2009LA Auto ShowLA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaShowmitsuMitsubishiMitsubishi ColtMitsubishi Global Small CarMitsubishiColtMitsubishiGlobalSmallCarOsamu MasukoOsamuMasukoThu, 03 Dec 2009 15:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Mitsubishi's new sub-CUV will be called RVR in Japan... what will it be called when it hits the US?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/mitsubishis-new-sub-cuv-will-be-called-rvr-in-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/mitsubishis-new-sub-cuv-will-be-called-rvr-in-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/mitsubishis-new-sub-cuv-will-be-called-rvr-in-japan/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mitsubishi RVR - click for high-resolution gallery

Mitsubishi is dusting off and old name for its new compact crossover. The new RVR that will be released in Japan next spring is nothing like past Mitsus wearing the moniker, a model we knew here as the Expo LRV. The RVR shares the Mitsu family's nose and physique, though the compact body is being described by officials as lightweight.

When it launches in Japan, the RVR will carry a 1.8 liter four-cylinder, and the MIVEC engine figures to keep the appetite for fuel in check. Mitsubishi is staggering the RVR's rollout, so its spring 2010 arrival in Japanese showrooms will be first, but North American sales are promised eventually. From where we sit, the RVR and Colt are two bits of triple-diamond excitement to look forward to in the coming year, especially if the company goes all Ralliart-crazy on both. Official press release posted after the jump.


Gallery: Mitsubishi RVR


[Source: Mitsubishi]

Continue reading Mitsubishi's new sub-CUV will be called RVR in Japan... what will it be called when it hits the US?

Mitsubishi's new sub-CUV will be called RVR in Japan... what will it be called when it hits the US? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crossoverJDMmitsumitsubishimitsubishi crossovermitsubishi rvrMitsubishiCrossoverMitsubishiRvrrvrrvr crossoverRvrCrossoverThu, 03 Dec 2009 10:29:00 EST<![CDATA[A Game of Chicken: Mitsubishi wants to import Triton pickup and Delica van - but can it afford to?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/a-game-of-chicken-mitsubishi-wants-to-import-triton-pickup-and/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/a-game-of-chicken-mitsubishi-wants-to-import-triton-pickup-and/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/a-game-of-chicken-mitsubishi-wants-to-import-triton-pickup-and/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



According to a report from Automotive News, Mitsubishi's North American CEO Shin Kurihara would like to bring over the Japanese automaker's funky little Delica van (right) and Triton pickup (above), believing that the two work-ready models may fill a desirable niche here in the States. So, why not wave a magic wand and make that happen? In a word: Chickens.

Sorry, come again? What do chickens have to do with vans and pickups? It's all a bit odd, but back in the early Sixties, the United States levied a 25% tax on potato starch, Dextrin, brandy, and light trucks in response to French and German tariffs on imported U.S. chicken. Yes, really.

As such, importing any light trucks from overseas into the States can be an expensive proposition, taking away pretty much any chance of profitability. There may be ways around the issue as Ford has found with its Turkey-built Transit Connect, and Mitsubishi is currently considering its options, which, we surmise, may include bringing the vehicles in only partially assembled and finishing them here in the U.S. We'll see.

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

A Game of Chicken: Mitsubishi wants to import Triton pickup and Delica van - but can it afford to? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chicken taxChickenTaxdelicamitsubishimitsubishi delicamitsubishi tritonMitsubishiDelicaMitsubishiTritontritonThu, 03 Dec 2009 09:31:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Mitsubishi Colt <i>is</i> coming to America]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/mitsubishi-colt-is-coming-to-america/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/mitsubishi-colt-is-coming-to-america/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/mitsubishi-colt-is-coming-to-america/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2009 Mitsubishi Colt - Click above for high-res image gallery

Buried deep within Mitsubishi's (re)presentation of its PX-MiEV plug-in hybrid concept from the Tokyo Motor Show was a line about a global small car that Mitsubishi will be bringing to the US in 2010. That's it, one line. We didn't think too much of the announcement until Mitsubishi's Product Communications Manager Moe Durand walked up and said, "In case you missed it, the small car is the Colt." Dang!

Dang because we really like the new EVO-nosed Colt, especially in Ralliart trim. Additionally, now is a wonderful time to bring over a small car. Don't believe us? Just ask Ford (Fiesta) and Mazda (Mazda2). The Colt will be going up against some pretty hefty (albeit lightweight) competition in the form of established B-segmenters like the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris and Nissan Versa.

And while we haven't driven the new Colt, the stats aren't exactly overwhelming - in top trim, a 1.5-liter MIVEC four-cylinder spits out 104 hp and 104 lb-ft of torque. Routed through a CVT transmission that's probably plenty of grunt for day to day small car activities. And odds are Mitsubishi will drop a slightly buffer mill into the Colt for US duty. But just picture this - what if Mitsubishi gives us the Ralliart Colt? Maybe with a turbo. We, for one, would really be in favor of that (hint, hint). Either way, here comes the Colt.


Gallery: 2009 Mitsubishi Colt

BREAKING: Mitsubishi Colt is coming to America originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 20:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingColtLA 2009LA Auto ShowLA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaShowMitsubishiMitsubishi ColtMitsubishi Small CarMitsubishiColtMitsubishiSmallCarWed, 02 Dec 2009 20:29:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Mitsubishi considering gasoline-engine MiEV]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/report-mitsubishi-considering-gasoline-engine-miev/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/report-mitsubishi-considering-gasoline-engine-miev/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/report-mitsubishi-considering-gasoline-engine-miev/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mitsubishi i MiEV - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mitsubishi already plans on selling its little MiEV electric car in the U.S. within the next 18 months, and it appears that we may get a gasoline powered version of the roomy micro car as well. Automotive News is reporting that Mitsubishi is mulling the idea of putting petrol power in charge of propulsion of some i models, giving dealers a higher volume line that can compete with the Smart Fortwo. The automaker already sells a gasoline powered i in Europe, but Mitsubishi Motors North America VP John Koenig reportedly told AN that the Euro model's turbocharged 660cc motor would likely be swapped out for the same Mitsubishi-sourced 1.0-liter three-cylinder model that powers the Smart.

If Koenig wants to bring the gas-powered i to the States, he estimates that he'll have to prove that dealers can sell 1,000 models per month in order to get the parent company to pull the trigger. That sounds doable to us considering Smart sold 20,000 Fortwo's in the first 10 months of production - in spite of the fact that the unique-looking micro mini is premium-priced and only has two seats. The i can comfortably seat four and it can probably be sold for close to the Fortwo's $11,990 starting price. The typical i sells in more small car tolerant Europe for $16,000.


Gallery: New York 2009: iMiEV


[Source: Automotive News - subs. req.]

REPORT: Mitsubishi considering gasoline-engine MiEV originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 17:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mitsubishimitsubishi imitsubishi mievMitsubishiIMitsubishiMievsmart fortwoSmartFortwoTue, 24 Nov 2009 17:57:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT is a CUV we can live with]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/first-drive-2010-mitsubishi-outlander-gt-is-a-cuv-we-can-live-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/first-drive-2010-mitsubishi-outlander-gt-is-a-cuv-we-can-live-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/first-drive-2010-mitsubishi-outlander-gt-is-a-cuv-we-can-live-w/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mitsubishi presented its best and brightest rides for us to drive over the course of an eight-hour event in the parched desert oasis of Palm Springs, CA. Everything from a tuned, 290-hp Lancer Sportback Ralliart to an electric i MiEV. And drive them we did. We rocketed up winding mountain roads and down gravel-caked trails. If they brought it, we pounded on it. Fairly hard, too. Odd then that the focus of this particular review - and in many ways the star of the party - isn't some carbon fiber body kit-enhanced EVO X, but rather the new 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT.

Yup, an SUV. Actually, a CUV, albeit one with lots of ground clearance. Mitsubishi first introduced the second generation Outlander in 2006 (replacing the more wagon-esque first gen.), and 2010 marks a major refresh. In GT trim, almost everything has changed, from the exterior to the interior to the quantity and quality of gadgets to the engine output to the transmission and finally, most importantly, its all-wheel-drive system. The 2009 Outlander was a fine, competent, utilitarian machine - perfectly adequate for schlepping kids and groceries. But let's be frank, it didn't set hearts on fire. And while the new Outlander GT won't necessarily do that either, it's most definitely not just another sedan on stilts.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT


Gallery: 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT Off-Roading


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT is a CUV we can live with

First Drive: 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT is a CUV we can live with originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT2010 Outlander GT2010MitsubishiOutlanderGt2010OutlanderGtfeaturedFirst DriveFirstDriveMitsubishiMitsubishi Outlander GTMitsubishiOutlanderGtOutlanderOutlander GTOutlanderGtS-AWCFri, 20 Nov 2009 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Mitsubishi recalls nearly 30k 2008-2009 Lancer/Lancer EVO models over airbag sensors]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/mitsubishi-recalls-nearly-30k-2008-2009-lancer-lancer-evo-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/mitsubishi-recalls-nearly-30k-2008-2009-lancer-lancer-evo-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/mitsubishi-recalls-nearly-30k-2008-2009-lancer-lancer-evo-models/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Mitsubishi Evo X - Click above for high-res image gallery

Potential corrosion of the front impact airbag sensor has prompted the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to recall up to 29,353 2008-2009 Mitsubishi Lancer and Lancer Evolution models. NHTSA is concerned that long-term exposure to a mixture of melted snow and salt thrown up by other vehicles on the road may cause the wintery mixture to adhere to the front impact sensor and lead to corrosion over time. In the event of an accident or collision, a damaged sensor may short-circuit and delay airbag deployment possibly causing driver or passenger injury. The recall is currently limited to states where heavy road salt is used in the winter (i.e., Connecticut, New York, Wisconsin, etc...).

Mitsubishi dealers have been instructed to replace the airbag sensors with a redesigned model with improved corrosion resistance. Of course, the service will be performed at no charge. While the safety recall isn't scheduled to begin until November 27, 2009, owners may contact Mitsubishi Customer Relations at 888-648-7820, contact NHTSA's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236, or visit NHTSA on the Internet at www.safercar.gov. Full press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X


[Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration]

Continue reading Mitsubishi recalls nearly 30k 2008-2009 Lancer/Lancer EVO models over airbag sensors

Mitsubishi recalls nearly 30k 2008-2009 Lancer/Lancer EVO models over airbag sensors originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008 mitsubishi lancer2008 mitsubishi lancer es2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X2008MitsubishiLancer2008MitsubishiLancerEs2008MitsubishiLancerEvolution2008MitsubishiLancerEvolutionX2009 mitsubishi lancer ralliart2009MitsubishiLancerRalliartAir Bagairbagauto recallAutoRecallcar recallCarRecallcorrosionEVOEvo XevolutionEvoXLancerlancer EVOlancer evolutionLancerEvoLancerEvolutionMitsumitsubishimitsubishi recallMitsubishiLancerMitsubishiRecallNHTSA RecallNhtsaRecallRecallSafety RecallSafetyRecallsaltTue, 17 Nov 2009 16:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Pics Aplenty: Mitsubishi shows off EVOlved 2010 Outlander GT]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/pics-aplenty-mitsubishi-shows-off-evolved-2010-outlander-gt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/pics-aplenty-mitsubishi-shows-off-evolved-2010-outlander-gt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/pics-aplenty-mitsubishi-shows-off-evolved-2010-outlander-gt/#commentsFiled under: ,


2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Mitsubishi Outlander GT prototype made its debut in New York earlier this year, a sign that the Lancer Evolution's front end would be spreading to other models in the lineup. Along with the new look, the GT concept also received sportier options like 19-inch OZ Racing wheels, larger Brembo brakes, a lightweight aluminum roof and a slight bump in horsepower.

While we don't yet know exactly what features of the concept car will make it to the production version, we do know what it will look like. In addition to the our live photos we snapped last month at our favorite SoCal car meet, Mitsubishi has just released dozens of new photos of its new sportier-looking SUV. You won't have to wait long for the details, though, as we are scheduled to get behind the wheel of the Outlander GT next week. Until then, browse through the high-res gallery below.


Gallery: 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT


[Source: Mitsubishi]

Pics Aplenty: Mitsubishi shows off EVOlved 2010 Outlander GT originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Mitsubishi Outlander2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT2010MitsubishiOutlander2010MitsubishiOutlanderGtMitsubishiMitsubishi OutlanderMitsubishi Outlander GTMitsubishiOutlanderMitsubishiOutlanderGtOutlanderOutlander GTOutlanderGtTue, 10 Nov 2009 15:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Mitsubishi sketches out Concept-cX-influenced compact crossover for 2010]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/mitsubishi-sketches-out-concept-cx-influenced-compact-crossover/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/mitsubishi-sketches-out-concept-cx-influenced-compact-crossover/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/mitsubishi-sketches-out-concept-cx-influenced-compact-crossover/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Mitsubishi Compact Crossover - Click above for high-res image

It's been two years since Mitsubishi took the wraps off its Concept-cX crossover at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, but before we see the production version at next year's Geneva Motor Show, Mitsubishi has released a teaser sketch of its all-new compact CUV.

Aimed at competing with segment stalwarts like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the Compact Crossover will be built atop Mitsubishi's new mid-size global architecture with power likely provided by a 1.8-liter turbodiesel channeling around 140 hp and 206 lb-ft of torque through Mitsubishi's Twin-Clutch SST gearbox and all-wheel drive system.

Sales will begin in Japan this February, and we'd expect a petrol-powered version to be released in the States later in 2010. Full details available in the press release below the fold.


Gallery: Mitsubishi Concept-cX

Continue reading Mitsubishi sketches out Concept-cX-influenced compact crossover for 2010

Mitsubishi sketches out Concept-cX-influenced compact crossover for 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>compactconcept-cxcrossovermitsubishimitsubishi compact crossovermitsubishi concept-cxMitsubishiCompactCrossoverMitsubishiConcept-cxThu, 29 Oct 2009 13:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo 2009: Mitsubishi i-MiEV Cargo is bigger, o-kei!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/21/mitsubishi-i-miev-cargo-tokyo-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/21/mitsubishi-i-miev-cargo-tokyo-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/21/mitsubishi-i-miev-cargo-tokyo-2009/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Mitsubishi i-MiEV Cargo concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

You can make anything bigger and better if you just add a hump, and that's what Mitsubishi has done to its i-MiEV to create the i-MiEV Cargo.

For those who find Ford's Transit Connect simply too monstrous and don't want to pay for gas - like, oh, a commercial concern in Tokyo - Mitsu's battery-powered i-MiEV could be the perfect solution. Growing only in height compared to its hatchback sibling, the thing is tiny but still packs 62 cubic feet of cargo space in its Quasimodo back end - that's a little less than half the Transit Connect's space. That said, we have to wonder how much a full cargo load will negatively effect the i-MiEV's range and overall performance.

Read all about the Cargo's big smallness in the press release after the jump, and have a gander at it in the gallery of high-res photos below.


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Mitsubishi i-MiEV Cargo


Photos copyright (C)2009 Jonathon Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Tokyo 2009: Mitsubishi i-MiEV Cargo is bigger, o-kei!

Tokyo 2009: Mitsubishi i-MiEV Cargo is bigger, o-kei! originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternativealternative energyAlternativeEnergyi-mievi-miev cargoI-mievCargoimievmitsubishiMitsubishi i MievMitsubishi i-MiEV Cargo ConceptMitsubishiI-mievCargoConceptMitsubishiIMievtokyotokyo 2009Tokyo Motor ShowTokyo2009TokyoMotorShowvanWed, 21 Oct 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo 2009: Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV shows its more conventional face]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/tokyo-2009-mitsubishi-concept-px-miev-shows-its-more-convention/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/tokyo-2009-mitsubishi-concept-px-miev-shows-its-more-convention/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/tokyo-2009-mitsubishi-concept-px-miev-shows-its-more-convention/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV -- Click above for high-res image gallery

Mitsubishi has put its plug-in hybrid Concept PX-MiEV crossover concept on a pedestal here at the Tokyo Motor Show, touting the CUV's "environmental and on-road performance," as well as its serial and parallel modes and wireless charging capabilities.

The crossover's design language represents another refinement for Mitsubishi, and although it's markedly less provocative than the newly re-shnozzed 2010 Outlander, it presents a pleasing collection of shapes and could point the way for a future iteration of the softroader. Inside is typical concept car fare for "linking man and car interactively" - which means it's far too cool for us to actually get on the road - but hey, where else are you going to find a cocochi interior with a yoke-style steering wheel?

The real story here is arguably the drivetrain, where Mitsu has combined a 1.6-liter gas engine and a hybrid system with lithium-ion batteries.

In any case, you can check out the PR info after the jump, and visuals in the gallery of high-res images below.


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV


Photos copyright (C)2009 Jonathon Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Tokyo 2009: Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV shows its more conventional face

Tokyo 2009: Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV shows its more conventional face originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 23:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Outlander2010Outlanderconceptconcept carConcept PX-MiEVConceptCarConceptPx-mievcrossovergas-electrichybridMitsumitsubishiMitsubishi Concept PX-MiEVMitsubishi hybridmitsubishi outlanderMitsubishiConceptPx-mievMitsubishiHybridMitsubishiOutlanderoutlanderpx-mievtokyotokyo 2009Tokyo Motor ShowTokyo2009TokyoMotorShowTue, 20 Oct 2009 23:11:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Mitsubishi Evo XI could get plug-in tech in 2013]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/19/report-mitsubishi-evo-xi-could-get-plug-in-tech-in-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/19/report-mitsubishi-evo-xi-could-get-plug-in-tech-in-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/19/report-mitsubishi-evo-xi-could-get-plug-in-tech-in-2013/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Mitsubishi PX-MiEV, scheduled for an official debut at the Tokyo Motor Show later this week, is jam packed with the best technology Mitsubishi has to offer. It's a series hybrid. It's a parallel hybrid. It has a 30 mile EV range. It will reportedly net 140 MPG. It has the same AWD system as the Lancer EVO X, enabling the crossover concept to switch modes based on how the 'ute is being driven. Why throw the technology sink at the PX-MiEV? Because it's a concept, of course, and concepts are supposed to be fanciful. But why the AWD?

For starters, AWD and hybrid tech don't usually mix, because driving all four wheels at the same time typically decreases fuel economy. So why add AWD to the PX-MiEV concept? The folks over at Autocar feel it could signal Mitsubishi's intent to offer plug-in tech in the Lancer Evolution XI. The Brits reportedly talked to Mitsubishi insiders who say the next-gen Evo could receive the plug-in tech showcased in the PX-MiEV.

While there's an up side to including plug-in tech on the next generation Evo, there are plenty of negatives as well. The high price point could better justify the added cost of hybrid tech, and the powertrain setup in the PX-MiEV, if fitted to the next Evo, would give torquetastic electric twist strictly to the rear wheels. Then there is the emissions issue, which would undoubtedly improve with a few battery packs equipped to Mitsubishi's road-going rally sedan.

Unfortunately, adding lithium battery packs and electric motors would also add significant weight to a vehicle that already tips the scales at over 3,500 pounds. Mitsubishi could shave some tonnage to offset some of the gains, but light weight materials would only add cost to an already pricey proposition. Mitsubishi is already having a bit of trouble trying to find enough customers to justify a $40,000 vehicle based off the spartan Lancer platform, so we're thinking that a plug-in Evo may not be such a great idea after all.


Gallery: Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV


[Source: Autocar]

REPORT: Mitsubishi Evo XI could get plug-in tech in 2013 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>evo xiEvoXihybridmitsubishimitsubishi evo xMitsubishiEvoXplug-in hybridplug-in hybrid evo xiPlug-inHybridPlug-inHybridEvoXiMon, 19 Oct 2009 13:32:00 EST<![CDATA[2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT sticks its nose out for us]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/18/2010-mitsubishi-outlander-gt-sticks-its-nose-out-for-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/18/2010-mitsubishi-outlander-gt-sticks-its-nose-out-for-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/18/2010-mitsubishi-outlander-gt-sticks-its-nose-out-for-us/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT - Click above for high-res image gallery

We're starting to think that Mitsubishi might just have a shot at making it in the States yet. Not necessarily based on product, although that's looking better all the time, but because half of their team seems to hang out at our favorite weekend car meet in Southern California. We love the fact that they bring their best and brightest right to us instead of making us chase them down. A little while ago, they gave us a sneak peek at the new 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR Touring, and today they brought out the pre-production version of the 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT.

That's the jacked up Outlander with the pumped up V6, S-AWC, aluminum racing pedals, multi-color 3.5-inch LCD between the gauges, upgraded navi, Rockford Fosgate stereo, leather, sunroof and trick new FUSE handsfree media gateway. We saw the prototype in New York, sporting an aluminum roof and Brembos, neither of which made it through to production. What did make it through was the new corporate schnoz, which apparently has been focus grouping well. It definitely makes it next to impossible to mistake it for anything other than a Mitsu. Love it or hate it, this is an Outlander Evo in all but name.


Gallery: 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs Inc.

2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT sticks its nose out for us originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 18 Oct 2009 09:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 mitsubishi outlander2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT2010 Outlander2010 Outlander GT2010MitsubishiOutlander2010MitsubishiOutlanderGt2010Outlander2010OutlanderGtmitsubishiMitsubishi Outlander GTMitsubishiOutlanderGtoutlanderoutlander GTOutlanderGtSun, 18 Oct 2009 09:47:00 EST<![CDATA[New-for-2010 Mitsubishi Evo MR Touring pricing announced, starts at $40,990]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/new-for-2010-mitsubishi-evo-mr-touring-pricing-announced/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/new-for-2010-mitsubishi-evo-mr-touring-pricing-announced/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/new-for-2010-mitsubishi-evo-mr-touring-pricing-announced/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR Touring - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mitsubishi finally posted pricing information on its new top-of-the-Evolution-ary-chart MR Touring model, and it definitely isn't cheap. A bargain to some maybe, but definitely not cheap. We had first seen this uplevel MR at a local car gathering that seems to attract just about every bit of new enthusiast candy, but back then, they were referring to it as the Limited. Now, it's called the MR Touring and with a base MSRP of $40,990, the top dog Lancer finally cracks the 40K barrier, pushing the definition of "bargain." If you go Sharpie-mad and check every box on the order form, the bottom line might make you think you're actually at an Audi dealer. The full boat 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR Touring would retail for - wait for it - $52,728. Yep, a fifty-plus-thousand-dollar-Lancer. (Editor's note: After checking over the list again, we see that some of the options are indeed redundant. Best we can tell, a Touring would run around $47,000, tops. Still quite a hefty sum though.)

For all those greenbacks, however, you'll get a wonderfully chuckable, largely-aluminum-bodied supersedan with a 291-horsepower turbo four-cylinder, a paddle-shifted dual clutch six-speed transmission, Brembo brakes, 18-inch BBS wheels wrapped in sticky Yokohama Advans, all working through Mitsubishi's Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) all-wheel-drive system to propel you along in any conditions on virtually any surface at alarming speeds. But all of that could be said for the regular Evo as well. So what makes the Touring so dear?

What the Touring adds are creature comforts that make the 40-grand price tag potentially less alarming, turning the car into something that can genuinely be cross-shopped against BMW, Audi, Mercedes and the like with few excuses. It's an Evo for grown-ups.

Standard on the Touring are things like a new higher-res info display between the gauges, an Evo-first moonroof, and genuine leather-covered heated Recaros. The car gains a few pounds with the extra equipment and additional soundproofing - even though it saves a bit by dropping the rear wing in favor of a small lip spoiler. The full list of standard and optional features can be found after the jump along with full pricing information. We've also added a new gallery of high-res pics so you can see all of the detail changes for yourself. At $40,000-$50,000 Mitsubishi is entering highly competitive waters, but we think they will find plenty of buyers. After all, the Evo has never been afraid of a little competition.


Gallery: 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR Touring


[Source: Mitsubishi]

Continue reading New-for-2010 Mitsubishi Evo MR Touring pricing announced, starts at $40,990

New-for-2010 Mitsubishi Evo MR Touring pricing announced, starts at $40,990 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR Touring2010MitsubishiLancerEvolutionMrTouringEvoEvo MREvo MR LimitedEvo MR TouringEvolution MR TouringEvolutionMrTouringEvoMrEvoMrLimitedEvoMrTouringmitsubishiMitsubishi Evo MRMitsubishi Evo MR LimitedMitsubishi EVO XMitsubishi Evolution Xmitsubishi evolution x mrMitsubishi Lancer EvolutionMitsubishi Lancer Evolution MRMitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR TouringMitsubishi Lancer Evolution XMitsubishiEvolutionXMitsubishiEvolutionXMrMitsubishiEvoMrMitsubishiEvoMrLimitedMitsubishiEvoXMitsubishiLancerEvolutionMitsubishiLancerEvolutionMrMitsubishiLancerEvolutionMrTouringMitsubishiLancerEvolutionXMR LimitedMR TouringMrLimitedMrTouringMon, 12 Oct 2009 16:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo Preview: Mitsubishi i-MiEV Cargo concept ready to move your eco-friendly goods]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/tokyo-preview-mitsubishi-i-miev-cargo-concept-ready-to-move-you/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/tokyo-preview-mitsubishi-i-miev-cargo-concept-ready-to-move-you/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/tokyo-preview-mitsubishi-i-miev-cargo-concept-ready-to-move-you/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


2009 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Cargo concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Alongside its production i-MiEV people-mover, Mitsubishi will be showing another baker's dozen of new vehicles in its display at the 41st Tokyo Motor Show next month. On display will be several production cars as well as two brand new concepts based on the i-MiEV powertrain, including the i-MiEV Cargo seen here.

Looking something like a larger, more modern Nissan S-Cargo, it's a smaller option for folks who might not need something as big as a Ford Transit Connect. Whether for small business duty or family recreation, the Cargo adds a big box of usefulness to the basic MiEV platform. And yet it's very funky, like a Citröen C15 for Mars. It's cute and functional and we can't see any good reason why Mitsu shouldn't build it. There's a rather short presser after the jump and a gallery of high-res pics for you to peruse below as well.


Gallery: Mitsubishi i-MiEV Cargo Concept


[Source: Mitsubishi]

Continue reading Tokyo Preview: Mitsubishi i-MiEV Cargo concept ready to move your eco-friendly goods

Tokyo Preview: Mitsubishi i-MiEV Cargo concept ready to move your eco-friendly goods originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Concept PX-MiEVConceptPx-mievi mievi MiEV CargoIMievIMievCargoMiEV CargoMievCargomitsubishiMitsubishi Concept PX-MiEVmitsubishi i mievMitsubishi i MiEV CargoMitsubishiConceptPx-mievMitsubishiIMievMitsubishiIMievCargoPX-MiEVWed, 30 Sep 2009 14:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo Preview: Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV comes with a plug, extra cocochi]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/tokyo-preview-mitsubishi-concept-px-miev-comes-with-a-plug-ext/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/tokyo-preview-mitsubishi-concept-px-miev-comes-with-a-plug-ext/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/tokyo-preview-mitsubishi-concept-px-miev-comes-with-a-plug-ext/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mitsubishi is previewing its next generation CUV in the Land of the Rising Sun next month, and like nearly every other concept bound for the Tokyo Motor Show, the Mitsubishi PX-MiEV is packing a number of hybrid technologies to maximize fuel efficiency, decrease emissions and keep performance on par. Plus, the PX-MiEV comes with an added helping of "cocochi" - Japanese for "cozy."

PX is Mitsubishi shorthand for "plug-in hybrid crossover," so a 1.6-liter inline-four powers the front wheels, along with a generator, and a new plug-in system allows users to tap into the grid with either a 100 or 200-volt outlet. The PX-MiEV boasts an EV mode with a 30-mile range which can toggle between front- and all-wheel drive, a series hybrid mode when the juice dries up and a parallel hybrid system when under full load. Mitsu's E-4WD system shuffles power to the rear wheels when needed, using the same S-AWC and E-AYC systems as the Evolution X. The PX-MiEV can send torque left-to-right depending on the conditions, and a new center differential motor (unlike the mutli-plate clutch setup on the Evo) actively tweaks torque output to the rear wheels to increase grip.

Inside, the PX-MiEV sports a spartan interior with a number of technologies to keep occupants happy and healthy, including heat reflective glass and paint, along with individual air conditioners. Active safety systems - ranging from a "Multi-Around Monitor" to a front-facing camera that detects fatigue, then alerts the driver through a series of visual, audio and "vibrational" warnings - are sure to find their way into future Mitsubishi models. All the details are yours for the taking the in press release below the fold.


Gallery: Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV

Continue reading Tokyo Preview: Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV comes with a plug, extra cocochi

Tokyo Preview: Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV comes with a plug, extra cocochi originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conceptmitsubishiMitsubishi Concept PX-MiEVMitsubishiConceptPx-mievpx-mievtokyotokyo 2009tokyo motor showTokyo2009TokyoMotorShowWed, 30 Sep 2009 12:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Evo-lved 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander shows up Down Under]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/24/evo-lved-2010-mitsubishi-outlander-shows-up-down-under/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/24/evo-lved-2010-mitsubishi-outlander-shows-up-down-under/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/24/evo-lved-2010-mitsubishi-outlander-shows-up-down-under/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Mitsubishi Outlander - Click above image to view in high-res

When Mitsubishi showed off the Evo-schnozzed Outlander GT Prototype at the New York Auto Show last April, it was pretty obvious that what we were seeing was a lightly-"conceptified" version of the next production car. Well, that's officially been confirmed, as the next-generation Outlander made its debut in Australia last week. Yep, there's the gaping maw up front. Frankly, the Outlander looked fine to us before; this expansion of the Lancer Evo design language to the compact SUV seems forced and unnecessary. Oh well, it'll at least get people talking. Whether they say nice things is another matter. Between this and the arrival (finally) of the Lancer Sportback, perhaps Mitsu stores will see an uptick in much-needed foot traffic. The full rundown of changes to the new Outlander (at least in Aussie-spec) is in the lengthy press release pasted after the jump.

[Source: Mitsubishi]

Continue reading Evo-lved 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander shows up Down Under

Evo-lved 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander shows up Down Under originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 mitsubishi outlander2010MitsubishiOutlanderevo griilleevo noseEvoGriilleEvoNosefaceliftmitsubishimitsubishi outlanderMitsubishiOutlanderoutlanderrefreshThu, 24 Sep 2009 15:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler officially done building engines with Hyundai, Mitsubishi]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/11/chrysler-officially-done-building-engines-with-hyundai-mitsubis/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/11/chrysler-officially-done-building-engines-with-hyundai-mitsubis/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/11/chrysler-officially-done-building-engines-with-hyundai-mitsubis/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



In a terse statement issued last night, Chrysler made official what had been expected for at least a couple of weeks: The Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance is no more. Chrysler Group LLC has bought out its former partners Hyundai and Mitsubishi, and the Dundee, MI engine plant that builds Chrysler's four-cylinder engines for a variety of vehicles is now wholly owned by the company.

No buyout price was announced and the status of the engine designs was not mentioned. Presumably, the Japanese and Korean automakers which also build versions of the same engines will be allowed to continue doing so for the foreseeable future at their own manufacturing facilities. Mitsubishi uses a version of this engine in the latest versions of its Lancer, including the EVO. The Dundee plant began production in 2005.

[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading Chrysler officially done building engines with Hyundai, Mitsubishi

Chrysler officially done building engines with Hyundai, Mitsubishi originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerchrysler llcChryslerLlcdundeedundee miDundeeMiengine plantEnginePlantgemaglobalglobal engine manufacturing allianceGlobalEngineManufacturingAlliancehyundaimitsubishiFri, 11 Sep 2009 09:01:00 EST