Market Position:
The Mitsubishi Sigma was Mitsubishi's flagship large sedan during its production run, competing in a segment with established luxury and executive sedans. It offered a blend of comfort, performance, and advanced features for its era.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles like the Toyota Crown, Nissan Cedric/Gloria, Mazda Luce, and various luxury imports. Its positioning often focused on offering a strong value proposition with advanced technology and a comfortable ride.
Key Features:
Available V6 engines, front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive (AWD), advanced infotainment options for the time, comfortable and spacious interior, aerodynamic styling.
Coverage Areas:
General Information, Engine Mechanical System, Engine Electrical System, Emission Control System, Fuel System, Clutch System, Manual Transaxle System, Automatic Transaxle System, Driveshaft and Axle, Suspension System, Steering System, Restraint System, Brake System, Body (Interior and Exterior), Body Electrical System, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC)
Page Count:
Undisclosed (but comprehensive, designed to cover all major topics)
Manual Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Systems Covered:
Engine, Fuel, Emissions, Drivetrain (Clutch, Manual/Automatic Transaxles, Driveshafts, Axles), Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Body (Interior/Exterior), Electrical Systems (Body & Engine), HVAC, Restraint Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts)
Procedures Included:
Step-by-step repair instructions, troubleshooting guides, maintenance procedures, diagnostic procedures, disassembly and reassembly, wiring schematics, component testing
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete rebuilds. Equivalent to dealer-level service information.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2750 mm (108.3 in)
Length:
Approximately 4870 mm (191.7 in)
Width:
Approximately 1770 mm (69.7 in)
Height:
Approximately 1425 mm (56.1 in)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1550-1650 kg (3417-3638 lbs)
Safety Ratings:
Crash test data from this era is limited by modern standards; specific official ratings for the 1996-1997 Sigma may not be widely available.
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (optional on some models)
Passive Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front and rear crumple zones, reinforced passenger safety cell.
Infotainment Features:
Cassette player with AM/FM radio, optional CD player, analog climate controls, power adjustable mirrors and windows.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS, optional Traction Control. Cruise control standard on many trims.
Connectivity Features:
Basic audio system connectivity (analog). No modern Bluetooth or USB integration as standard.
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific recommendation.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) for automatic transmissions, or as recommended by the manual. Manual transmissions often have longer intervals or lifetime fill.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Crucial for 6G72 engines. Typically around 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 144,000 km) or 5-7 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for exact viscosity and API rating).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent).
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF SP-II or equivalent.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Dexron II/III or equivalent.
Known Issues:
Timing belt failure if not replaced proactively, potential for EGR valve issues, suspension wear (bushings, ball joints), HVAC blower motor resistor failure, intermittent electrical gremlins common in older vehicles.
Brand Heritage:
Mitsubishi Motors has a history of producing reliable and innovative vehicles, often known for their engineering prowess, especially in their larger sedans and SUVs.
Model Evolution:
The Sigma nameplate has been used on various Mitsubishi models over time. The 1996-1997 models represent the second generation of the Diamante/Sigma platform, which was a significant step up in luxury and technology for Mitsubishi's large sedan offerings.
Production Years:
Second Generation: 1990-1996 (Japan), 1991-1996/1997 (Global Markets)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
