Colt replacement previewed ahead of Geneva

Ahead of its Geneva motor show debut, Mitsubishi has previewed its Colt replacement through a series of renderings.

Dubbed 'Mitsubishi Concept Global Small', Mitsubishi says the concept combines the attributes of 'compact', 'affordability' and 'high fuel efficiency', and will be one of 12 vehicles the Japanese company will bring to the March show.

The light hatch promises agile manoeuvrability and easy operation in an efficient package that is said to comfortably accommodate five adult passengers. Powered by a 1.0 - 1.2-litre class compact (petrol) engine, the mechanical package also incorporates idle stop-start and regenerative braking for CO2 emissions of just 90g/km.

Weight savings have been made throughout the car's most complex parts with a new-generation CVT, lightweight brakes and an aerodynamically efficient body shape all contributing to improved fuel economy.

When asked if we're likely to see the MCGS Down Under, Mitsubishi Motor Australia Limited head of corporate communications Lenore Fletcher told the Carsales Network: "Absolutely! The vehicle is of prime importance to MMAL and we've been keeping a keen watch over its development."

Fletcher explained that specification and timing for the MCGS locally is still some way off, but hastened to add "we're ready to welcome the Concept Global Small into the Mitsubishi stable."

Fletcher also indicated that MCGS could be offered with the opion of an all-electric powertain similar to that found beneath the Mitsubishi i-MiEV, currently under evaluation at Carsales.

"Being the international leader in EVs, and the first to bring an all-electric car to market, the possibility of using i-MiEV's powertrain in other small vehicles is of great interest to Mitsubishi."

Mitsubishi Concept Global Small is set for production in 2012 and will be produced at MMC's new third factory in Thailand.

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