Mitsubishi geared up to fulfil customer needs with roll-out of comprehensive product line-up
Today the Pajero Sport and Prototype X models saw their first local debut at the Johannesburg International Motor Show (JIMS), which opened to the media in Hall 6 at Nasrec, south of Johannesburg.
Joining the two new models on the Mitsubishi Motors stand for viewing was an impressive line-up of adventurous vehicles such as the;
• Triton ClubCab and Double Cab,
• Outlander 2.4 GLS,
• Lancer CVT and GLS,
• Pajero 3.2-litre diesel long- and short-wheel-base, and
• Dakar rally winning model, Pajero Evolution.
Speaking at the JIMS passenger cars media day, newly appointed divisional manager of Mitsubishi Motors SA, Suraiya Naidoo said, “Mitsubishi is all about those who want to embark on adventurous driving. Our brand is committed to providing the utmost driving pleasure and safety for our valued customers. These are commitments we will never compromise.”
The Mitsubishi stand also saw the Prototype X breaking cover. This turbocharged and rally derived performance car is a concept version of the long-awaited Lancer Evolution X.
Featuring a new platform, engine, and exterior and interior designs, the totally redesigned 2.0-litre model is loaded with the very latest in automotive engineering technology; including the S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) vehicle dynamics control system and the newly developed, power-efficient Twin Clutch SST (Sport Shift Transmission). The Prototype X is a new-generation high-performance 4WD sedan that allows a new category of driver access to Mitsubishi’s dynamic driving experience by underpinning speed with control, security and safety.
The Prototype X is powered by a new turbocharged engine that adds a high-performance turbocharger to the 4B11-type 2.0-litre 4-cylinder 16-valve DOHC MIVEC unit. Developing more power over the full rev range, this engine generates more torque at 422 Nm / 3 500 rpm and has better response than its predecessor. The new engine is also lighter and has less of an impact on the environment.
Using a titanium-aluminium alloy turbine wheel and aluminium alloy compressor wheel, the turbocharger features a shape-optimized compressor wheel that improves boost response and increases low-end and mid-range torque.
The exterior is crafted with sophisticated and aggressive styling to give the low-and-wide squat stance body an aerodynamically clean profile that flows liquidly from the inverted-slant nose over the roof to the tail end, using wind-tunnel proven aero parts.
Among Mitsubishi’s new SUV offerings was the Pajero Sport, a pedigree in its segment. The Pajero Sport, displayed in the 3.2-litre diesel GLS and GLX at JIMS, features dynamic and sporty exterior lines complemented by a stylish and vast interior space that engenders a sense of comfort, purpose and safety.
Produced in Thailand, this dynamic vehicle has a 4-speed automatic gearbox with a turbocharged Di-DC engine that powers up to 120kW and 343Nm. As safety is paramount in all the Mitsubishi models, the Pajero Sport also boasts innovations such as Mitsubishi’s Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE), ABS and EBD, as well as driver and passenger airbags. The new model will use the Super Select 4WD system, also used in the Pajero SUV, which transmits drive torque effectively to all four wheels on all types of surface.
The Pajero Sport will be powered by a choice of two engines; 3.2-litre diesel and 3.5-litre V6 petrol units, which all deliver outstanding motive performance and fuel economy.
In terms of architecture, the body of the Pajero Sport is mounted on a new ladder frame to realise high levels of durability and reliability, consistent with the needs of its target markets.
Mitsubishi’s All-Wheel-Control philosophy, forged through its participation in the Dakar Rally and other contests, informs all of the company’s 4WD systems. The body, frame and driveline not only give the Pajero Sport outstanding off-road performance but allow it to deliver excellent drive dynamics over all surfaces.
“The Pajero Sport will undoubtedly set new standards in the SUV segment,” said Naidoo.
Also on display was the Lancer range in the constant variable transmission (CVT). This relatively new Lancer is an evolution of driving technology – and a short stint behind the wheel will quickly convince any hard-bitten performance enthusiast that the new Lancer CVT has what it takes and a whole lot more. The CVT has the unique DOHC MIVEC variable valve timing system – which provide even better standards of drive-ability and performance that the others in the segment just can’t match.
“The Lancer CVT is available at a price that brings yet another new dimension to exciting, value-added performance motoring,” added Naidoo.
And for the bakkie enthusiasts, Mitsubishi displayed the locally assembled Mitsubishi Triton Double Cab and ClubCab, which was launched earlier this month in East London.
These bakkies are smart enough to overcome any obstacle in comfort and style, but also tough enough to get the hardest job done with plenty of power in reserve. Whether you are the outdoors entrepreneur, off-road enthusiast and the water sport, fishing or camping-oriented family man or woman who needs the power, off-road capabilities and space, these bakkies are for you.
Another interesting model on display was the relatively all-new Mitsubishi Outlander. From the new welding line at the Mizushima plant where the body is manufactured, to the new all-aluminium engine block from the Shiga engine plant to the aluminium roof, six-speed CVT transmission and Rockford Fosgate sound system, the Outlander has new engineering, superior technology, fresh new design and superb levels of comfort, which makes it a winner!
As the connection between cars, society and the environment becomes clearer, Mitsubishi revealed that is was ready to clear a path to a new era in sustainability measures. “At the pinnacle of our environmental technology, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has introduced the zero-emissions i-MiEV electric vehicle, a new-generation solution that will play an important role in putting the brakes on global warming,” said Naidoo.
She said that Mitsubishi was working to present a super-efficient “Global Small” car leveraging from their years of minicar expertise. “We will develop a next-generation compact SUV that will leapfrog global environmental standards while still delivering the driving pleasure that Mitsubishi is famous for. We will test our new diesel technology in the crucible of rally competition, and forge in our new cars a true synergy between dynamic and environmental performance. We believe that our technology and our passion for driving will help us lead the way to a new future for motoring,” concluded Naidoo.
