Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) presented three new models at Le Mondial de l' Automobile 2004 (2004 Paris Motor Show), which runs from 23rd September to 10th October at the Paris Expo, Porte de Versailles. The Colt CZ3 and Colt CZT are three-door compact cars. The new sporty compacts offer high-performance, with a series of new engines produced in Europe (CZ3) and a 150PS turbo-charged engine (CZT). In addition, the Outlander Turbo (Airtrek in Japan) will be making its European debut, and offers a power output of 202 PS. All vehicles are slated for European release in early 2005.

1. Colt CZ3

The three-door Colt CZ3 had its debut as a concept car in March of this year at the Geneva Motor Show. The production model will be launched in early 2005.

MMC began sales of the base model Colt in Japan in November of 2002, with the European model going on sale in May 2004. The Colt CZ3 takes its design cues from the global compact car styling of the original Colt, but the front glass and lowered roofline of the new model enhance its athletic image, identifying this car as a sporty member of the new generation of automobiles.

Engines will be sourced from the European production facility MDC Power GmbH in Köelleda, Germany, and will be available in a wide variety of configurations: 1.1-litre (75 PS) / 1.3-litre (95 PS) / 1.5-litre (109 PS), DOHC, MIVEC* petrol engines, as well as 2 different diesel engine types, 1.5-litre (68 PS and 95 PS), with DOHC and common rail fuel injection. Available transmissions include a 5-speed manual, and 6-speed Allshift automated manual transmission.

* MIVEC: Mitsubishi Innovative Valve-timing Electronic Control System

2. Colt CZT

The Colt CZT is based on the CZ3, and offers a 1.5-litre, DOHC, 16-valve, turbo-charged engine, with an output of 150 PS and 210 Nm. With this increased power, the CZT is capable of top-class performance, with acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in 8 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h. This level of performance is sure to capture the attention of younger drivers, and gives the Colt CZT a stress-free drive that is ideal for European driving conditions.

3. Outlander Turbo

Debuting on the European market in April 2003, the Outlander won praise for its driving performance as well as for its crossover vehicle styling, which fused together an SUV with a sporty station wagon. The Outlander Turbo stands apart from the Outlander with new headlamps, front grille, aero accessories, alloy wheels, and black leather interior, all combining to make a sharp and high quality vehicle. It will be released in Europe in early 2005.

The engine is a 2-litre, 16-valve, DOHC, turbo-charged unit with an output of 202 PS and 303 Nm, and is based on the Lancer Evolution VIII's. The Outlander Turbo is capable of spirited performance, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.7 seconds and with a top speed of 220 km/h. The handling has also been tuned for superior driving, with full-time 4WD, 4-wheel disc brakes, multi-link rear suspension and high-performance 215/55R17 tyres.