The Mitsubishi Colt is back, but not as you remember it. The new Colt is a compact electric hatchback that shares its platform, powertrain, and design with the Renault Zoe, one of Europe's best-selling EVs. But unlike the Zoe, which is only sold in Europe, the Colt will be available in other markets, including Japan and Australia. Mitsubishi hopes that the Colt will help revive its flagging sales and reputation and appeal to a new generation of eco-conscious drivers.
What is the Mitsubishi Colt?
The Mitsubishi Colt is a nameplate that dates back to 1962 when it was used for a series of small cars and vans sold in Japan and other Asian markets. The Colt name was also used for some models exported to Europe and North America, such as the Mirage and the Lancer. The last generation of the Colt was produced from 2002 to 2012 and was a subcompact hatchback that competed with the likes of the Ford Fiesta and the Toyota Yaris.
The new Colt is a completely different beast. It is based on the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance's CMF-EV platform, which is designed specifically for electric vehicles. The Mitsubishi Colt shares most of its components with the Renault Zoe, including its 52 kWh battery pack, its electric motor that produces 134 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque, and its range of up to 245 miles on the WLTP cycle. The Colt also inherits Zoe's fast-charging capability, which allows it to replenish up to 90 miles of range in 30 minutes using a 50 kW DC charger.
The Colt differs from the Zoe mainly in its exterior styling, which features Mitsubishi's signature Dynamic Shield grille, LED headlights and taillights, and a more angular shape. The Colt also has some unique interior touches, such as a digital instrument cluster, a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a rotary gear selector. The Colt offers a spacious cabin for its size, with enough room for five passengers and 338 liters of cargo space.
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Why does the Mitsubishi Colt matter?
The Mitsubishi Colt is an important model for Mitsubishi Motors, which has been struggling in recent years with declining sales, aging products, and a tarnished image after a fuel economy scandal in 2016. The company has been relying on its alliance partners Renault and Nissan for support but has also been losing market share and influence within the group. The Colt is Mitsubishi's first new model since 2018 when it launched the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross crossover.
The Colt is also Mitsubishi's first electric vehicle since the i-MiEV, which was launched in 2009 as one of the world's first mass-produced EVs. However, the i-MiEV was a niche product that failed to gain much traction in the market due to its limited range, performance, and practicality. The Colt aims to be a more mainstream EV that can compete with other popular models, such as the Volkswagen ID.3, the Peugeot e-208, and the Hyundai Kona Electric.
The Colt is part of Mitsubishi's new strategy to focus on electrified vehicles and emerging markets, especially in Southeast Asia, where it has a strong presence. The company plans to launch more EVs and plug-in hybrids in the future and invest in battery technology and charging infrastructure. The company also hopes that Mitsubishi Colt will attract younger and more environmentally conscious customers who value innovation and sustainability.
When will the Mitsubishi Colt be available?
The Mitsubishi Colt will make its global debut at the Paris Motor Show in October 2023, where it will be displayed alongside its sibling, the Renault Zoe. The Colt will go on sale in Europe in early 2024, with prices starting from around $28,000 before incentives. The Colt will also be launched in Japan and Australia in 2024, as well as in other selected markets with demand for electric vehicles.
The Mitsubishi Colt is unlikely to be sold in North America, where Mitsubishi has a limited presence and where small cars are not very popular. However, Mitsubishi may offer other EVs based on the CMF-EV platform in North America in the future, such as a crossover or an SUV.
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Is the Mitsubishi Colt worth buying?
The Mitsubishi Colt is a compelling option for anyone looking for a compact, affordable, and efficient electric hatchback. The Colt offers a decent range, performance, practicality, and a modern and attractive design. The Colt also benefits from the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance's expertise and experience in electric vehicles, as well as its network of dealers and service centers.
The Colt may not be the most exciting or original EV on the market, but it is a solid and sensible choice that delivers on its promises. The Mitsubishi Colt may have a different cachet or charisma than some of its rivals, but it has the potential to win over many customers who value reliability, affordability, and sustainability.
The Mitsubishi Colt is a welcome return for a classic nameplate and a sign of hope for Mitsubishi Motors. The Colt may not be a game-changer, but it is a step in the right direction for the company and for the electric vehicle industry. The Colt proves that electric cars can be accessible, practical, and appealing to a wide range of drivers. The Colt may not be the best EV on the market, but it is certainly one of the best values.
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