Segment:
Compact family car, positioned as a competitor to models like the Ford Focus, Opel Astra, and Volkswagen Golf
Key Strengths:
Spacious interior, comfortable ride, reliable engines (especially GDI variants), attractive styling for its era
Design Philosophy:
Developed in collaboration with Mitsubishi Motors and DaimlerChrysler (during Daimler-Benz ownership of Mitsubishi), aiming for European market appeal
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system
Drivetrain:
Transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, driveshafts, differentials
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams
Body And Trim:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seating
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system diagnosis and repair
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, common problem solutions
Repair:
Component removal and installation, overhaul procedures, adjustments
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system, sensor testing, actuator testing
Depth:
Comprehensive: from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnosis, and bodywork repair
Engine Code 1:
4G92 (1.8L SOHC MPI)
Engine Code 2:
4G93 (1.8L DOHC GDI)
Engine Code 3:
4G94 (2.0L DOHC GDI)
Engine Code 4:
4D68 (2.0L SOHC Diesel)
1.8L Mpi Horsepower:
Approx. 115 PS (113 hp; 85 kW)
1.8L Gdi Horsepower:
Approx. 125 PS (123 hp; 92 kW)
2.0L Gdi Horsepower:
Approx. 136 PS (134 hp; 100 kW)
2.0L Diesel Horsepower:
Approx. 82 PS (81 hp; 60 kW)
Injection Type Petrol:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) for 4G92, Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) for 4G93/4G94
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (95 RON recommended for GDI), Diesel
Emission Standard:
Euro 3 compliant (depending on market and specific engine variant)
Length:
Approx. 4435 mm (174.6 in)
Width:
Approx. 1740 mm (68.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1420 mm (55.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2600 mm (102.4 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1250-1350 kg (2756-2976 lbs) depending on engine and equipment
Euroncap Rating:
N/A for early models, later models received mixed results; typically 3-star or 4-star depending on test year and equipment
ABS:
Available on higher trims and later models
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard on most models
Seat Belts:
Pre-tensioning front seat belts
Audio System:
Factory fitted radio/cassette or CD player, often with 4-6 speakers. Limited connectivity options by modern standards.
Cruise Control:
Available as an option on higher trim levels.
Bluetooth:
Not available on original models; aftermarket solutions possible.
Immobiliser:
Standard on most European models for anti-theft.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific engine)
Timing Belt Interval:
100,000 km or 5 years for 4G9 engines (critical replacement)
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ/SL, ACEA A3/B3/B4; viscosity 5W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for GDI specific requirements)
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent (ethylene glycol-based, green or pink)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
DIA QUEEN ATF-SP III or equivalent
Engine Oil Consumption:
Some GDI engines can develop oil consumption issues if not properly maintained; piston ring wear can be a factor.
Rust Corrosion:
Potential for rust and corrosion on the bodywork, especially in areas with road salt, common for vehicles of this age.
Suspension Wear:
Wear in front and rear suspension components (bushings, ball joints) can lead to knocking noises and imprecise handling.
Gdi Injector Fouling:
Direct injection system can be susceptible to carbon build-up on injectors and intake valves, potentially requiring specialized cleaning.
Exhaust System Corrosion:
Catalytic converter and exhaust pipe corrosion can occur over time.
Manufacturer:
Mitsubishi Motors
First Generation:
Launched in 1996, designed specifically for the European market. Replaced the Mitsubishi Lancer in many European markets.
Facelift:
Minor facelift around 2001, with updated styling (e.g., clear headlights, revised grille) and interior improvements.
Manufacturing Location:
Netherlands (NedCar plant) for European production
Reliability Rankings:
Generally received average to good reliability ratings from consumer surveys of its time, particularly the GDI engines if maintained well.
Tdi Engine Rivalry:
The diesel variants competed with popular European oil-burners but were less powerful than many contemporary TDI engines.
Design Award Context:
Developed with European styling cues to appeal to the target market, though specific design awards are not widely documented.
