The Tokyo Motor Show is rapidly approaching and the latest automaker to show its hand is Mitsubishi. The Tri-Diamond automaker will display 
two brand new machines one a production model and the other a concept.
The production model will be the next-generation of the familiar Mirage hatchback. The new Mirage is a basic five-door hatch that will come sporting an economy-focused 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine with stop/start technology and a CVT Transmission. Expect it to be a frugal little number when it launches in the Thai market first, in March 2012.
Mitsubishi’s more daring concept vehicle will be theplug-in hybrid Concept PX-MiEV II which represents Mitsubishi’s vision for a mid-size SUV of the future. This concept is also chasing down extreme fuel economy with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that’s mated to a pair of 60-kilowatt electric motors. The advanced drivetrain will push all four wheels through Mitsubishi’s S-AWC (Super-All Wheel Control) traction control system. Apparently its performance is comparable with that of a 3.0-litre V6.
The PX-MiEV II can travel more than 50 kms on electric power alone and with a full tank of gas can go as far as 805 kms. It also has practical features like the capability for portable appliances to be run of the vehicle’s battery packs.
The Tokyo Motor Show kicks off on December 3rd, expect more announcements in the next few weeks.
Gallery
Is there any Mitsubishi that anybody actually wants? Other than the EVO which by all accounts they are going to kill one way or another, when was the last time you heard anyone say the wanted a Mitsubishi? Even their concept are duller than a camry. The interior is as appealing as a dental surgery.
I think the thousands of Mitsubishi Outlanders that are currently on the road Mike would make your argument null and void.
I’m sure there are plenty of people that want a Mitsubishi but that new Mirage is very, very boring.
Who wants a 1 litre car these days?
If you’re having trouble sleeping forget counting sheep, just look at if for 2 minutes and you’ll be snoring your head off before you can say “dam, that’s an ugly, boring piece of crap”.