Mitsubishi

Country of Origin:
Japan
Thailand
USA

Models:
Galant
Grandis
L200
Lancer
Lancer Evolution IX
Nativa
New Lancer
Outlander
Pajero
 Key:
* Top speed electronically limited
2.5SC 2.5-litre supercharged engine
2.5TC 2.5-litre turbocharged engine
2.5D 2.5-litre diesel engine
2.5TD 2.5-litre turbocharged diesel engine
I4 4-cylinder engine in inline configuration
V6 6-cylinder engine in V-shaped configuration
FWD   Front-wheel-drive platform
RWD   Rear-wheel-drive platform
4WD   Four-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive platform
5M   5-speed manual
5A   5-speed automatic
5AM 5-speed automanual
CVT Continuously variable auto transmission
l/100km   Litres of fuel consumed every 100 kms

Mitsubishi Galant

The long-overdue new Galant actually replaces the old Galant and the Magna in the line-up. Still with front-wheel-drive, it comes with two engines locally, namely the 2.4-litre four-cylinder in the DE and ES, and new from 2008, the 3.8-litre V6 in the GTS. The 2.4-litre has a four-speed automatic transmission only, with optional Sportronic manual mode, while the 3.8-litre has a five-speed automatic with Sportronic. The base model includes variable intermittent wipers, power mirrors, 16-inch steel wheels with covers, cloth seats, air conditioning, power windows, power locks with keyless entry and CD player with four speakers. The higher models get bright interior accents, cruise control, premium cloth seats, ABS brakes with EBD, and CD/MP3 player with six speakers, along with 16-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels and an eight-way power driver's seat. Options include fog lamps, special climate control console, steering wheel with audio controls, power sunroof, leather-trimmed seats, and a premium six-CD/MP3 player with eight speakers. Safety features include front, curtain and side airbags standard on all models.


 Midsize Sedan



Road Tests & Articles:
2007 Mitsubishi Galant ES road test

Competitors:
Honda Accord
Nissan Altima
Toyota Camry
Price Range
 Dhs 59500 - 85000 (US$ 16100 - 23100)
Body Styles
 4-door sedan
Weight (kg)
 1565 - 1659
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
2.4 I4 FWD
3.8 V6 FWD		 4A
5A		 160
230		 213
339		 8.9
10.4		 11.5
8.2		 208*
208*
Good
 Competitive price, space, ride, standard side airbags
Bad
 Uninspired styling, soft handling, slow base model




Mitsubishi Grandis

The Grandis is a slick minivan that offers buyers a genuine three-row seating configuration to take the kids to school and pick up their buddies at picnics on the weekend, but without the higher running costs associated with a 4WD alternative thanks to their small 4-cylinder engines and car-like demeanour. It is also interesting to note that this people mover forego sliding rear doors in favour of a car-like 4-door configuration. The MPV is kitted out with a 2.4-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine, and  gets a standard 4-speed automatic with manual shift capability, transferring its engine power to the ground via the front wheels. With seating for seven, standard safety features include front airbags, though front side and curtain airbags are optional. Also standard are ABS-assisted disc brakes, rear a/c and power windows and mirrors. Options include such niceties as dual sunroofs, leather, CD changer and more. Just be ready to be mistaken for a professional van driver on the streets, even though the Grandis is far too good to be a commercial vehicle.


Midsize Minivan



Road Tests & Articles:
2006 Mitsubishi Grandis road test

Competitors:
Kia Carens
Renault Scenic
Toyota Innova
Price Range
 Dhs 75000 - 80000 (US$ 20300 - 21800)
Body Styles
 5-door minivan
Weight (kg)
 1660
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
2.4 I4 FWD 4A 160 217 10.4 11.5-12.2 165
Good
 Manageable size, interior versatility, car-like drivability
Bad
 Not quick, limited front legroom, hard interior plastics




Mitsubishi L200

The new L200 offers versatility combined with a tough new look that makes it seem more like a lifestyle vehicle than a commercial pickup. It obviously is tough enough to be a commercial pickup. Available in two-wheel-drive form with a 2.4-litre petrol engine or a 2.5-litre turbodiesel, or in four-wheel-drive form with the diesel engine only, it is an interesting proposition on-road, and even off-road, if equipped. Only the five-speed manual is offered here. The spacious interior places the L200 firmly in the midsize class, unlike the previous compact model. The L200 is an ideal choice for small to medium type of business application. Choices in body styles include double cab or single cab along with a variety of work and handling packages. Mitsubishi's new L200 delivers good everyday performance, thanks to willing, if somewhat weak, engines, ventilated disc brakes at the front and drum rear brakes, and available ABS and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution. The brakes, the rear axle, the steering gear and the chassis have all been substantially beefed up for the new L200, while interior features include vinyl seats and a radio cassette player.


Midsize Pickup



Road Tests & Articles:
none

Competitors:
Dodge Dakota
Nissan Pickup
Toyota Hilux
Price Range
 Dhs 40000 - 70000 (US$ 10800 - 19000)
Body Styles
 2-door pickup, 4-door pickup
Weight (kg)
 1695 - 1805
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
2.4 I4 RWD
2.5TD I4 RWD/4WD		 5M
5M		 145
136		 219
314		 10.0
8.2-8.6		 11.0
14.0-14.6		 180
167
Good
 Value for money, tough looks, fuel economy
Bad
 Slow, lumpy handling, no auto gearbox




Mitsubishi Lancer

The popular Lancer line-up uses three four-cylinder engines, namely a 1.3-litre and a 1.6-litre in the basic models, and a 2.0-litre in the Ralliart Edition. The 1.3-litre has a choice of a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic. The 1.6-litre has a choice of a manual or an innovative CVT automatic. The 2.0-litre seems to come exclusively with an automatic gearbox only. None of the engines are particularly sporting. Features, either standard or optional, include driver's & front passenger's SRS dual airbags, simple radio cassette player or a better radio cassette stereo with CD changer and 4 speakers, tachometer, optional rear spoiler, steel wheels with hubcaps or light alloy wheels, ABS with EBD, optional keyless entry system, and a rear seat centre armrest with cup holders. The Ralliart Edition specifically adds a rear spoiler, 15-inch alloy wheels, leather steering wheel, special interior trim, body kit and better brakes. All cars have a cloth interior, with standard power windows and mirrors.


Compact Sedan



Road Tests & Articles:
2007 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart road test
2005 Mitsubishi Lancer road test

Competitors:
Ford Focus
Hyundai Elantra
Kia Cerato
Price Range
 Dhs 33500 - 54500 (US$ 9100 - 14800)
Body Styles
 4-door sedan
Weight (kg)
 1080 - 1210
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
1.3 I4 FWD
1.6 I4 FWD
2.0 I4 FWD		 5M/4A
5M/CVT
4A		 81
97
123		 120
138
173		 6.5-7.0
6.8-7.0
8.7		 13.7-14.5
12.5-13.0
12.0		 165
175-181
192
Good
 Price, cabin features, fuel economy
Bad
 Slow, average rear legroom




Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX

The Lancer Evolution is different enough from the bargain front-wheel-drive Lancer to be considered a completely different car. Powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged and intercooled engine, riding on a modified all-wheel-drive platform, and putting power down through a six-speed manual gearbox, the ninth generation of the Evo is a true sports car. All are fitted with a special front fascia, a big rear wing, and a rear-window wiper, sports seats and a few special interior features, though not much different from the basic Lancer in terms on trim. The Evo comes with 17-inch alloy wheels and grippy P235/45WR17 tyres. In addition to these features, the Evo IX gets an active center differential switch and Brembo brakes with sport ABS and EBD, plus  convenience and safety features like power windows and mirrors, and dual airbags. The all-wheel-drive system is computer-controlled to determine how much power to send to each wheel in varying situations.


Compact Sedan



Road Tests & Articles:
2006 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX first look

Competitors:
BMW M3
Infiniti G35
Renault Sport Megane
Price Range
 Dhs 132500 - 145000 (US$ 24500 - 32600)
Body Styles
 4-door sedan
Weight (kg)
 1483
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
2.0TC I4 4WD 6M 286 391 11.8 5.5 251
Good
 Extremely fast for the money, handling, practical interior
Bad
 Hard ride, noisy, fuel economy, low-rent interior




Mitsubishi Nativa

The Nativa is an off-road capable 4WD that fits in an odd spot between the Pajero and the Outlander. Powered by a 3.0-litre V6 mated to a four-speed automatic, the Nativa is a dated design, but still a decent wagon. Standard features for the low base price include AM/FM radio cassette player with 4 speakers, driver's and front passenger's front airbags, part time 4WD with synchronized front free-wheel differential, transfer protector, power steering, power windows, central locking, power mirrors, alloy wheels, keyless entry system and seating for five. Features available on higher models include gauges for a thermometer, compass, oil pressure and voltage meter, faux wood trim, front fog lights, CD player with 6 speakers, leather seats, sunroof, limited slip differential, ABS with EBD, cruise control and more. The Nativa rides on the older L200 pickup platform, and was discontinued in a number of markets since 2004. However, few 4WDs are offered at this price that are properly equipped to go off-road.


 Midsize 4WD



Road Tests & Articles:
none

Competitors:
Ford Explorer
Nissan Pathfinder
Toyota Fortuner
Price Range
 Dhs 71000 - 84000 (US$ 54400 - 67900)
Body Styles
 5-door wagon
Weight (kg)
 1855 - 1915
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
3.0 V6 4WD 4A 175 255 12.7 13.0 175
Good
 Price, off-road capable, manageable size, utility
Bad
 Slow, outdated platform, floaty handling, fuel economy




Mitsubishi New Lancer

The previous Lancer will continue to be sold alongside this new Lancer. The new model comes with a choice of two four-cylinder engines, namely a 1.5-litre and a 2.0-litre. Both models come with a five-speed manual, while optionally, the smaller engine gets a four-speed automatic and the larger one gets a CVT auto transmission. Features in the most basic model includes a driver's airbag, CD player with 6 speakers, automatic a/c, keyless entry, 16-inch steel wheels with covers, power windows and even colour-coded bumpers. There are various trim levels right up to the top GT model which adds a sporting body kit, sunroof, adaptive headlights which turn with the steering wheel, fog lamps, rear spoiler, leather steering wheel with audio switches, Rockford Fosgate premium CD audio system with six-CD changer and 9 speakers, rear split seats with centre armrest, dual front airbags, colour-keyed power mirrors, ABS brakes with EBD and Brake Assist, 18-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, paddle-shifters with the CVT, and a full keyless operation system.


Compact Sedan



Road Tests & Articles:
none

Competitors:
Honda Civic
Mazda 3
Toyota Corolla
Price Range
 Dhs 45000 - 62000 (US$ 12200 - 16800)
Body Styles
 4-door sedan
Weight (kg)
 1300 - 1413
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
1.5 I4 FWD
2.0 I4 FWD		 5M/4A
5M/CVT		 105
152		 145
198		 7.0-7.5
7.7-8.2		 11.5-12.5
8.6-9.5		 175-180
200-206
Good
 Fair price, cabin options, fuel economy, looks
Bad
 Slow base model, body kit option is heavy




Mitsubishi Outlander

A better vehicle than the last model, the redesigned-for-2008 Outlander is based on the Lancer platform and uses two engines this time around, namely a 2.4-litre four-cylinder mated to a CVT automatic, and a 3.0-litre V6 mated to a six-speed automatic. The all-wheel-drive system distributes power as needed under various conditions and also with a 4WD Lock mode, but it does not have the equipment to be a serious off-roader. Basic features include an AM/FM radio cassette player with a six-CD changer and 4 speakers, dual front airbags, ABS with EBD and Brake Assist, power steering, power windows, cloth upholstery, central locking, keyless entry, 16-inch alloy wheels and power mirrors. The higher models can be optioned out with cruise control, 18-inch alloys, Rockford Fosgate stereo with 6-CD changer and 9 speakers, full keyless system, leather steering wheel with audio controls, rear parking sensors, paddle shifters and faux leather seats. Only the five-seater version is sold in the GCC.


 Compact 4WD



Road Tests & Articles:
none

Competitors:
Hyundai Santa Fe
Kia Sorento
Toyota RAV-4
Price Range
 Dhs 78000 - 100000 (US$ 21200 - 27100)
Body Styles
 5-door wagon
Weight (kg)
 1580 - 1640
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
2.4 I4 4WD
3.0 V6 4WD		 CVT
6A		 170
220		 232
276		 9.3
10.4		 10.8
9.0		 190
200
Good
 Price, car-like handling, utility, manageable size
Bad
 Could be quicker, off-road ability, no side airbags offered




Mitsubishi Pajero

The Pajero is a true off-roader, and a legend in its own right. Powered by either a 3.0-litre V6 or a 3.8-litre V6 engine, it can only be had with an automatic transmission nowadays. It received a massive facelift for 2007, and can be had in either three-door or five-door body styles. The standard package includes ActiveTrac four-wheel-drive with rear-wheel, full-time all-wheel and 4WD high and low range with locked centre differential. The short-wheelbase three-door Pajero holds five passengers, while the long-wheelbase model holds seven, with a third-row seat that can be folded into a well in the cargo area floor, or removed entirely. Standard features include an RV meter showing external temperature, time, date, compass, pressure, altitude and maintenance intervals. Also standard are a radio cassette player with 6 speakers, automatic a/c, front dual airbags, keyless entry, power windows and mirrors, and alloy wheels. Higher models get a 6-disc CD changer, fake wood interior trim, sunroof, front and rear automatic a/c, traction control, ABS with EBD, cruise control, cool box and leather seats.


 Midsize 4WD



Road Tests & Articles:
2006 Mitsubishi Pajero road test

Competitors:
Ford Explorer
Nissan Pathfinder
Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
Price Range
 Dhs 88000 - 140000 (US$ 23900 - 38000)
Body Styles
 3-door wagon, 5-door wagon
Weight (kg)
 2000 - 2175
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
3.0 V6 4WD
3.8 V6 4WD		 4A
5A		 182
250		 255
329		 12.9
13.5		 13.0
10.6-10.8		 175
200
Good
 Low base price, off-road ability, utility
Bad
 Outdated platform, slow, on-road handling






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