Segment:
Compact Family Car, Competed in the C-segment
Competitors:
Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, Opel Astra, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Almera
Design Philosophy:
Practical, comfortable, and reliable family hatchback and saloon. Shared platform with Mitsubishi Space Star (later generations) and Colt.
Platform:
Shared development with Volvo (S40/V40), hence some shared components and design cues.
Engine:
All engine variants including 1.6L (4G92), 1.8L (4G93 SOHC/DOHC), 1.9L TD (F8QT/F9Q)
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic Transmissions
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, Rear Multi-link beam axle
Brakes:
Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Discs/Drums, ABS system
Steering:
Power assisted rack and pinion
Electrical:
Full Electrical Schematics, Lighting, Ignition, Starting, Charging, Accessories, ECU diagnostics
Bodywork:
Body Panel Replacement, Interior Trim, HVAC, Body Repair
Maintenance:
Routine checks, Oil changes, Filter replacements, Spark plug replacement, Belt inspection/replacement
Repair:
Engine overhaul, Transmission overhaul, Brake system repair, Suspension component replacement, Electrical component diagnosis and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, Fault code interpretation, Component testing procedures
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, Clearances, Fluid capacities, Wiring diagrams
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system troubleshooting.
Displacement 1.6L:
1597 cc
Horsepower 1.6L:
103 PS (102 hp; 76 kW)
Torque 1.6L:
137 Nm (101 lb-ft)
Displacement 1.8L:
1830 cc
Horsepower 1.8L Sohc:
115 PS (113 hp; 85 kW)
Horsepower 1.8L DOHc Gdi:
126 PS (124 hp; 93 kW)
Torque 1.8L:
164 Nm (121 lb-ft) (SOHC)
Engine Code 1.9L Td:
F8QT (Renault/Nissan F9Q variant)
Displacement 1.9L Td:
1870 cc
Horsepower 1.9L Td:
90 PS (89 hp; 66 kW)
Torque 1.9L Td:
178 Nm (131 lb-ft)
Fuel Injection:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI), Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) for some 1.8L models
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (RON 95 recommended), Diesel for TD models
Length:
Approx. 4470 mm (176.0 in) (Saloon), 4410 mm (173.6 in) (Hatchback)
Width:
Approx. 1740 mm (68.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1415 mm (55.7 in) (Saloon), 1410 mm (55.5 in) (Hatchback)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2630 mm (103.5 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1200-1350 kg (2646-2976 lb) depending on engine and specification
Euro Ncap Rating:
3 stars (Early models, revised later)
ABS:
Available on higher trims and optional
Traction Control:
Limited availability on specific models
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags standard on most models post-facelift; side airbags optional
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioner front seatbelts
Oil Change Interval:
Every 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first (check owner's manual for specific engine)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 90,000 km or 6 years (for 4G9x engines, check manual for specific interval)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 5W-30 recommended (check manual)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent), 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 75W-85
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
DIA QUEEN ATF-SP III (or equivalent)
Common Faults:
Corrosion on wheel arches and sills, potential for gearbox synchro wear on manual transmissions, radiator leaks, power steering pump issues, ignition coil failure, diesel engine (F8QT) glow plug issues.
Heritage:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer with a long history of innovation.
Generation 1:
First generation (1995-2003). Introduced as a significant European market-focused model. Shared platform with Volvo S40/V40. Facelifted in 1999.
Manufacturing Locations:
NedCar plant in Born, Netherlands (primary production for European market)
Production Period:
1995 – 2003
