Mitsubishi Colt | |
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![]() 2013 Mitsubishi Colt Ralliart 5-door (UK) | |
Overview | |
Manufacturer | Mitsubishi Motors |
Production | 1962–1971 1978–2013 2023–present[1] |
TheMitsubishi Colt is anameplate fromMitsubishi Motors that has been applied to a number of automobiles since 1962. It was first introduced with a series ofkei andsubcompact cars in the 1960s, and then for the export version of the subcompactMirage between 1978 and 2002.Chrysler, Mitsubishi's longtime partner, also used the name when applying its long-running practice of rebadging Mitsubishi vehicles as theDodge and Plymouth Coltcaptive imports for the North American market between 1970 and 1994.
The most recent version was a subcompact car model manufactured between 2002 and 2013, sold under the Colt nameplate internationally. Mitsubishi replaced this series in 2013 with a newer generation which reverted to the Mirage name.
In addition to these small cars, "Colt" in the Mitsubishi vernacular has been used for unrelated vehicles of various forms as discussed below. The name has also been disaffiliated from Mitsubishi as an independent marque in some markets.
The "Colt" nameplate was first introduced in 1962, which started as a line of small cars sold predominantly in Japan. These models continued on in various similar forms until 1971. Between 1978 and 2002, the nameplate was applied to export versions of the Mirage in markets such as Europe and for a time, in Australia. Between 2002 and 2013, the nameplate was referred to a subcompact hatchback (and derivative body styles) that replaced the Mirage line. Unlike previously, the "Colt" nameplate was used internationally.
Various other unrelated models have been designated "Colt" over time as well. TheL200 pickup truck in South Africa utilised the "Colt" nameplate from 1992 to 2008. The nameplate is also used in export markets for a series of light commercial vehicles consisting ofDelica-based "Colt T100/T120/L300/1400" (1968–present),Suzuki Carry-based "Colt T120SS" (1991–2019), andCanter-based "Colt T200/Diesel" (1975–2022).
Colt was also used as a marque from 1974 to 1984 by theColt Car Company to market Mitsubishi vehicles in the United Kingdom. In New Zealand, the Colt brand ceased in favour of the Mitsubishi name in 1970, upon the release of the "Dyna-wedge" Galant model.
Mitsubishi introduced the "Colt" name in 1962 on theMitsubishi Colt 600, the first of a line of small family cars complementing theirMitsubishi 500, the company's firstpost-war passenger car. The Colt 600 is powered by a 594 ccNE35BOHVair-cooledstraight-twin engine. At this time, Mitsubishi did not yet exist as an autonomous company, and vehicles were being produced by three regional subsidiaries ofMitsubishi Heavy Industries. MHI, which had been formally dismantled after World War II, resumed operating as a single entity in 1964, but continued to use the "Colt" marque until the 1970s in Asia, and the 1980s in Europe.
To complement the 600, a largercompact car was introduced in 1963, theColt 1000. The largerColt 1500 arrived in 1965, theColt 1100 replaced the Colt 1000 in 1966, and theColt 1200 took the 1100's place in 1968.[2]
The third Colt line was the smaller, fastbackColt 800 and its derivatives the 1000F, 1100F, and 11-F. This series was built from 1965 until late 1971.
Mitsubishi reintroduced the Colt nameplate as afront-wheel drive hatchback in 1978, with a sedan later released in 1982. Sold in Japan as theMirage, the Colt name was restricted to markets such as Europe and Australia (where the Colt was built byMitsubishi Motors Australia from 1982 to late 1989).[3][4]
Five generations of Mirage-based Colts were sold between 1978 and 2002, with new generations released in 1983, 1987, 1991, and 1995. These Mirage derivatives were sold in various forms as theMitsubishi Lancer in many markets, with the Colt nameplate in Europe typically restricted to the hatchback variants; sedans and station wagons were relegated to the Lancer name.
Mitsubishi Colt (Z30) | |
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![]() 2008 Mitsubishi Colt CZI 3-door (UK) | |
Overview | |
Production | 2002–2013 2007–present (Colt Plus, Taiwan) |
Assembly | Japan:Okazaki, Aichi (Nagoya Plant) Netherlands:Born (NedCar) Italy:Turin (Pininfarina)[5] Taiwan:Taoyuan (CMC) |
Designer | Olivier Boulay Omer Halilhodžić Ken Okuyama atPininfarina (CZC) |
Body and chassis | |
Class | Mini MPV (B) |
Body style | 3-doorhatchback 5-doorhatchback 5-doorstation wagon (Plus) 2-doorhardtopconvertible |
Layout | Front-engine, front-wheel-drive orfour-wheel-drive[nb 1] |
Platform | Mitsubishi Z platform |
Related | Smart Forfour Senova X25 Senova D20 Changhe Q25 |
Powertrain | |
Engine | 1.1 L3A91I3 (petrol) 1.3 L4A90I4 (petrol) 1.5 L4A91 I4 (petrol) 1.5 L4G15turbo I4 (petrol) 4G18turbo I4 (petrol) 1.5 LOM639Di-D I3 (diesel) (until 2008 facelift) |
Transmission | 5-speedmanual CVT 6-speedAllShift automated manual |
Dimensions | |
Wheelbase | 2,500 mm (98.4 in) |
Length | 3,870–3,885 mm (152.4–153.0 in) 4,125–4,390 mm (162.4–172.8 in) (Colt Plus) |
Width | 1,680 mm (66.1 in) |
Height | 1,550 mm (61.0 in) 1,500 mm (59.1 in) (Colt Plus) |
Chronology | |
Predecessor | Mitsubishi Mirage (fifth generation) Mitsubishi Mirage Dingo Mitsubishi Space Star |
Successor | Mitsubishi Mirage (sixth generation) |
In November 2002, a new Colt was released by Mitsubishi in Japan with a design byOlivier Boulay and built on the same platform as theSmart Forfour. In Japan, it was sold at a specific retail chain calledGalant Shop. A European version made at Mitsubishi'sNedCar facility followed into production a year later (see below). This generation is not sold in the United States.
In 2004, the Colt was launched in Europe and Australia, with models including a 1.1, 1.3, and a 1.5-litre,fuel injected petrol engines withMIVEC as well as aturbocharged version of the 1.5.[6] A three-door arrived in 2005 for Europe only.
TheSmart Forfour also shared the 2003 specificationchassis, withBrabus releasing a performance version of the Forfour in 2004 using the same engine as used in the 2004 European cz-T, but squeezing 30 PS (22 kW) extra out of the same4G15.
In November 2004, a 1.5 L D-IDdirect injectionturbo-diesel version withturbocharger andintercooler, producing 95 PS (70 kW; 94 hp) was made available, with an option of theAllshift automated manual gearbox with electrohydraulic clutch and six gears.[7]
The performance specification 1.5T was based on the4G15 block, with aTurbo andIntercooler to aid power (up to 150 PS (110 kW; 148 hp) at 6000 rpm and 155 lb⋅ft (210 N⋅m) torque at 3500 rpm).MIVECvariable valve timing was also used to increase the output, upping the power dramatically from the 110 PS (81 kW; 108 hp) 1.5MPI. The same performance engine was also used to power the later released CZC cabrio model Colt (2005), with the more petrol-friendly 1.5 MPI available as an option.
Mitsubishi released its new Colt CZCcoupé cabriolet at theGeneva Motor Show in March 2005, and the car has been on sale since 2006. The car is a 2+2 with aretractable hard-top and available with the turbo engine from the European CZ-T or as just a 1.5 MPI. Jointly developed by Mitsubishi andPininfarina underKen Okuyama, it was partially made in the Netherlands, with final assembly taking part atPininfarina inTurin, Italy.
Mitsubishi released the Colt Ralliart Version-R in Japan on 30 May 2006. Its4G15 engine, withMIVECvariable valve timing and turbocharger, produces 154 PS (113 kW; 152 hp) at 6000 rpm and 210 N⋅m (150 lb⋅ft) at 3500 rpm for the manual model, with torque reduced to 180 N⋅m (130 lb⋅ft) at 2500 rpm for the CVT model. Other key features include a stiffer spot welded chassis, stiffer suspensions, improved exhaust system, improved steering mounting, body kit, 240 km/h speedometer, low profile high-grip 16-inch tires (205/45R16), andRecaro bucket seats borrowed from theLancer Evolution VIII MR. The rear seats are moulded for two passengers, as opposed to three in the rest of the range. Incidentally, this is the same engine used in the 2004 European performance specification Colt (CZ-T), only running slightly increased horsepower figures (torque stayed the same). This version is also sold in Australia and New Zealand as the Colt Ralliart, without the 'Version-R' designation. The CVT version is officially sold in Singapore and Hong Kong under the same designation as Japan.
In 2008, the Version R went through a minor facelift with its engine uprated to 163 PS (120 kW; 161 hp) at 6000 rpm and 210 N·m (150 lb·ft) at 3500 rpm for the manual model. The CVT model's output remained as before. In Australia and New Zealand the 2008 and onwards models were fitted with lighter rims and chrome headlamps, but the sunglass holder and frontRecaro seats were removed and replaced with standard sports seats to reflect a reduced retail price.
Also in 2008, a limited version called Colt Ralliart Version-R Special was launched in the Japanese market for a limited number of 300 units. The difference from the usual version is further stiffer continuous seam-welded chassis and a Ralliart muffler. Another 200 units of Version-R Special were launched in 2010.
In Switzerland, presents itself as a sporty top model from 2008 - apart from the former Colt CZT with turbocharged 150 hp (110 kW) - the CZT Ralliart high performance version with 180 hp (130 kW) at 6000 rpm and 245 N⋅m (181 lb⋅ft) at 3500 rpm. The extensive modifications include a lowered ride height, a reinforcement of the rear axle, and a tighter coordination of shock absorbers and springs. Special front and rear spoilers and side skirts provide the appropriate visual appearance.
In 2006 Mitsubishi displayed theColt MIEV, using a separate electric motor at each wheel.[8] Development of their MIEV technology was first announced May 2006 when Mitsubishi unveiled the Colt version is a rear-wheel drive all-electric vehicle fittedColt MIEV test-bed. With two 20kW in-wheel motors. TheColt MIEV has a top speed of 150 km/h (93 mph) and a cruising range of 150 km (93 mi) on a single charge. Charge times have been suggested to be a quick as 10 minutes, although whether this is partial or full is undisclosed. It does however point to the usage of quick-chargebatteries such as those developed byToshiba.[citation needed]
Mitsubishi used the Colt test bed to perform on-road testing to identify and resolve any problems unique to the in-wheel motor vehicle, including any deterioration in road holding and ride comfort due to increases in unsprung weight, as well as reliability and durability issues in the in-wheel motor system and its peripheral components (suspension, wheels, tires). They simultaneously worked on developing a more powerful version of the in wheel motors for 4WD applications.[citation needed]
In 2004, theColt Plus was launched in Japan, and later to other international markets. This was essentially a longer version of the standard Colt with around 30 cm (12 in) more boot space compared to the regular colt. The Colt Plus also features an automatic tailgate with an obstacle sensor. The tailgate can also be opened via the remote. The Colt Plus uses a 4A91 MIVEC engine instead of the 4G15 MIVEC one.
In March 2007, Mitsubishi launchedColt Plus inTaiwan, which is similar to the version launched in Japan in 2004 but the engine is different. It's powered by a 1.6-litreSOHC4G18 engine and it's the same engine used in the 2000 TaiwaneseLancer, running slightly increased horsepower figures (112 hp (84 kW) at 6,000 rpm / 14.9 kg-m at 4,500 rpm) and it uses theINVECS-IIICVT transmission in fully-automatic mode. In 2008 it added a sporty version for the Taiwan market called "Colt Plus iO" which used the INVECS-III with 6-speed shift and changed the facelift to fit the styling in Japan. The Taiwanese model later received a facelift changing most of its body panels, while the Colts in other markets are replaced by theMitsubishi Mirage.
The Colt Plus Turbo has the same feature as the Colt Plus except for the difference in engine and transmission. They use the same 4G15 engine as the 2004 European CZT with an output of 143 bhp but with 180 nm of torque. The Colt Plus Turbo also uses the Invecs III with a 6-speed sport shift.
The Colt Plus Ralliart is basically a 2006 facelifted version of the Colt Plus Turbo. The 4G15 engine power has been uprated to 154 bhp (115 kW) to match the Colt Version R. The styling of the Colt Plus Ralliart also matches the Colt Version R with the same EVO-inspired bonnet vents and bumpers. It is also accompanied with leather seats.
Colts built in the Netherlands received a facelift in 2008. The Japanese-built Colt has had the facelift in October 2009. The facelifted Colts featured revised interiors (including a new stereo, air conditioning dials, instrument cluster and other various parts). However, the 1.5 LOM639 diesel was removed from the range, with lack of demand cited.[9]
Engine | Code | Type | Displacement | Power | Torque | Top speed | 0-60 mph | Combined consumption | CO2 emissions | Production years |
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Petrol engines | ||||||||||
1.1 | 3A91 | I3 | 1,124 cc | 55 kW (75 PS; 74 hp) at 6000 rpm | 100 N⋅m (74 lb⋅ft) at 3500 rpm | 165 km/h (103 mph) | 12.5 s | 51 mpg (imperial) | 130 g/km | 2004–2013 |
1.3 | 4A90 | I4 | 1,332 cc | 70 kW (95 PS; 94 hp) at 5250 rpm | 125 N⋅m (92 lb⋅ft) at 4000 rpm | 180 km/h (112 mph) | 10.6 s | 47 mpg (imperial) | 143 g/km | 2004–2013 |
1.3 (ClearTec) | 10.1 s | 55 mpg (imperial) | 119 g/km | 2008-2013 | ||||||
1.5 | 4A91 | I4 | 1,499 cc | 80 kW (109 PS; 107 hp) at 6000 rpm | 145 N⋅m (107 lb⋅ft) at 4000 rpm | 190 km/h (118 mph) | 9.5 s | 46 mpg (imperial) | 145 g/km | 2004–2013 |
1.5 (CZT/Ralliart) | 4G15 | I4turbo | 1,468 cc | 110 kW (150 PS; 148 hp) at 6000 rpm | 210 N⋅m (155 lb⋅ft) at 3500 rpm | 211 km/h (131 mph) | 7.7 s | 41 mpg (imperial) | 161 g/km | 2004–2013 |
Diesel engines | ||||||||||
1.5 (DI-D) | OM639 | I3 | 1,493 cc | 70 kW (95 PS; 94 hp) at 4000 rpm | 210 N⋅m (155 lb⋅ft) at 1800 rpm | 180 km/h (112 mph) | 9.6 s | 58 mpg (imperial) | 126 g/km | 2004–2008 |
In 2013,China Motor Corporation (CMC), as the dealer of Mitsubishi cars of Taiwan conducted a major facelift on the Colt Plus. This is the second facelift of the current generation Colt Plus, and also the biggest facelift, with every single body panel redesigned and upgrading the wheels from 4 bolt wheels to 5 bolt wheels. The facelifted Colt Plus remains on sale in Taiwan alongside other long-serving Mitsubishi models like the Grand Lancer (Lancer EX), an updated version as the next generation of the 2007 international model and an updated version of the third generation Delica. A new Colt Plus X-Sports with extra exterior plastic cladding is also exclusively available in Taiwan.
In June 2017, CMC launched the third facelift for the current generation Colt Plus, and included the Dynamic Shield design featured on various late Mitsubishi products including theOutlander,Eclipse Cross, andGrand Lancer.
Powertrain choices include 1.1 L engine (with 3 cylinders),1.3 L engine, INVECS-III CVT transmission, 2- or 4-wheel drive for Very (XSJH9, XSDH9), COOL Very (XSJH8, XSDH8), 1.3 RX (XSXH) models. 1.5 C (XNMH) includes 1.5 L engine, 5-speed manual transmission, 2-wheel drive.
Powertrain choices include 1.5 L MIVEC engine, INVECS-III CVT transmission, 2- or 4-wheel drive for Very (LSUH1), COOL Very (LSUH2), 1.3 RX (LTPH, LSPH) models. 1.5 RX also includes 6-speed sport mode settings for the CVT transmission.
Models | Engine codes | Net power, and torque | Drive |
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Colt (DBA-Z21A) 1.3 RX | 4A90 MIVEC | 92 PS (68 kW; 91 hp) at 6000 rpm, 124 N⋅m (91 lb⋅ft) at 4000 rpm | 2WD |
Colt (DBA-Z22A) 1.3 RX | 4A90 MIVEC | 91 PS (67 kW; 90 hp) at 6000 rpm, 122 N⋅m (90 lb⋅ft) at 4000 rpm | 4WD |
Colt (ABA-Z23A) 1.5C | 4A91 MIVEC | 105 PS (77 kW; 104 hp) at 6000 rpm, 141 N⋅m (104 lb⋅ft) at 4000 rpm | 2WD |
Colt (DBA-Z23W) 1.5 RX | 4A91 MIVEC | 105 PS (77 kW; 104 hp) at 6000 rpm, 141 N⋅m (104 lb⋅ft) at 4000 rpm | 2WD |
Colt (DBA-Z24W) 1.5 RX | 4A91 MIVEC | 102 PS (75 kW; 101 hp) at 6000 rpm, 138 N⋅m (102 lb⋅ft) at 4000 rpm | 4WD |
Colt (CBA-Z27AG) Ralliart Version-R | 4G15 MIVEC | 163 PS (120 kW; 161 hp) at 6000 rpm, 211 N⋅m (156 lb⋅ft) at 3500 rpm | 2WD |
Colt (CMN-Z37A) CZT Ralliart | 4G15 MIVEC | 180 PS (130 kW; 180 hp) at 6000 rpm, 245 N⋅m (181 lb⋅ft) at 3500 rpm | 2WD |
The Colt nameplate was revived in 2023 for a rebadged fifth-generation Renault Clio.[1]
The Colt was the base platform for a number of Mitsubishi concept cars.
The Colt 600 convertible was a concept two-seatconvertible version of the productionColt 600 sedan introduced at the9th Tokyo Motor Show in 1962 byShin Mitsubishi Heavy-Industries,[10] It was never offered to the public.
Colt Targa (1986)
The Colt Targa Concept was a futuristic looking two-door, two-seater version of the Colt with its roof chopped off and shorter windshield and side windows. It was driven byJackie Chan in the 1986 Hong Kong filmArmour of God. It was a special one-off model made by Mitsubishi for this movie.
The CZ2 was a prototype urban car which presaged the next generation of the Colt.[11]
The CZ3 Tarmac was a larger version of the CZ2, sharing the same platform but with more interior space and a larger engine. It was also a possible replacement for theMitsubishi Lancer Evolution as the company's vehicle in theWorld Rally Championship.[11][12]
The CZ3 Tarmac Spyder was a conceptconvertible version of the CZ3 Tarmac. It debuted at the2003 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.[13][14]
The CZ2 cabriolet was a convertible version of the 2001 CZ2 prototype.[15] It was shown at the73rd Geneva Motor Show inGeneva, Switzerland in 2003.
The 2005Mitsubishi Colt EV was an electric car driven by two in-wheel motors located in the rear wheels each producing a power of 20 kW (27 hp) and 600 N·m of torque[citation needed] without the need for a transmission. This gave the car a top speed of 150 km/h (93 mph) and an estimated range of 150 km (93 mi) with a 13 kWh battery pack. It had a suggested price tag ofUS$19,000.