MIMS: Mitsubishi puts best foot forward

Mitsubishi has leapt out of the blocks at the Melbourne International Motor Show, with performance Lancers, two limited edition models and a bold new design study, the Concept-cX.

Far from grinding to a halt after announcing the cessation of local production, Mitsubishi has been beavering away, setting up for the introduction of the new performance model variants in the Lancer range.

On top of that, there's the Concept-cX, which points the way towards future styling and technology trends for SUVs, and a series of packaged models based on current cars, to show what can be done with accessories.

Starting with the Lancers, the Ralliart Lancer has made its Australian debut today, fresh from its global debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit last month (more here).

Mitsubishi announced the international specification of the Ralliart at the Melbourne show, since the local specification may change prior to the car going on sale here. The preview of the car in Melbourne pre-empts its global launch, which is set down for later this year.

As such, power is rated at 177kW and torque peaks at 343Nm. The DOHC engine is turbocharged and intercooled, displacing 2.0 litres.

Drive is via a twin-clutch transmission similar in operation to Volkswagen's DSG system -- an automated manual transmission, in other words. The torque is taken from the gearbox to all four wheels by means of the Active Centre Differential.

Once released, the Ralliart will slot into Mitsubishi's local model range, under the Lancer Evolution -- which we learned today will be offered in two grades.

At the entry level for Mitsu's STI rival, there's a Lancer Evolution and above that, the Lancer Evolution MR -- proving that Subaru's not the only one intending to go upmarket with a turbo rally weapon.

The engine powering both grades is a 2.0-litre DOHC intercooled turbomotor of all-alloy construction and developing 217kW of power at 6500rpm and 336Nm of torque at 3500rpm. A five-speed manual box is the sole transmission available for the entry-level model, but the MR grade offers the option of a six-speed twin-clutch 'Sportronic' Shift Transmission (TC-SST) as well as the five-speeder.

Standard safety features for the entry-level model include: dual front airbags, knee airbag, side and curtain airbags, Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) incorporating an Active Centre Differential, Super Active Yaw Control, Active Stability Control, and Sports Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, limited slip differential and a Brembo braking system.

Recaro bucket seats, a sports-style steering wheel, climate control, keyless entry, hands-free Bluetooth connectivity, dusk sensing headlamps, rain sensing wipers and AM/FM six stacker CD audio with steering wheel audio controls are also fitted as standard.

Over the standard specification, the MR grade features steering wheel paddle shifters, upgraded two-piece front disc Brembo brakes, Bilstein front and rear shock absorbers, Eibach front and rear springs, HID headlamps, 18-inch BBS forged aluminium wheels, exterior chrome detail, leather combination seat trim, heated front seats and a Rockford Fosgate AM/FM six stacker CD sound system with nine speakers, including subwoofer.

The Concept-cX is powered by a 1.8-litre clean-running diesel, which drives through a DSG-style twin-clutch transmission.

Lending some spice to current models, Mitsubishi has developed a series of design studies generically called the 'Panther' series. Based on Colt, Grandis, Pajero, Triton and Lancer, the Panther models are finished in black with claw-mark graphics. Additional features to enhance the aggressive look include a body kit, chrome wheels, fog lights, scuff plates, exhaust tips and illuminated grilles.

The Panther models have been constructed using a mix of local and imported accessories, which can be purchased through Mitsubishi.

Mitsubishi has released a 25th anniversary edition of the Pajero SUV, featuring satellite navigation and a reversing camera, in addition to other features.

Another limited edition on the stand is the Premium LE Lancer, which is based on the Lancer VR specification, with leather seat trim, a chrome grille, chrome accents, 18-inch alloy wheels and lower profile tyres.

Also announced at the show, the Triton's now available with 2.5-litre common-rail direct-injection turbodiesel four-cylinder power in single cab and dual cab 4x2 models. Buyers can specify the GLX variant with an automatic transmission option in lieu of the standard manual transmission if they wish. The expanded Triton range will hit showrooms in April.

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