blog

Mitsubishi’s latest electric racecar chases outright victory at Pikes Peak

Mon, 27 May 2013 12:34:17 +1200

Mitsubishi Motors is ambitiously targetting overall first place in next month’s edition of the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in Colorado, after placing second in the electric vehicle class in its first-ever attempt last year.

Two-time Dakar Rally champion Hiroshi Masuoka and six-time Pikes Peak motorcycle champion Greg Tracy will each drive an all-electric 4WD MiEV Evolution II prototype. The new racecar takes advantage of a rich harvest of technical knowhow gained from the 2012 event, with driving dynamics now boosted by integrating Mitsubishi’s S-AWC (Super All-Wheel Control) system with a new 400kW four-motor drivetrain.

The MiEV Evolution II combines standard production EV parts with a specially designed 50 kWh high-capacity underfloor battery and two-front/two-rear electric motors, all built into a lightweight pipe-frame chassis, carbon-cowled for improved aerodynamics.

Mitsubishi’s AYC (Active Yaw Control) gives the racecar high cornering capability and ASC (Active Stability Control) improves stability by automatically controlling brake force to one or more wheels.

Hiroshi Masuoka began his Dakar Rally campaign in 1987 and became the first Japanese driver to post consecutive overall victories when he won in 2002 and 2003. Today he works with Mitsubishi Motors on vehicle development, training company test drivers and running test drive sessions in Japan and overseas. Greg Tracy brings a wealth of racing experience not only in motorcycles but four-wheeled vehicles too, and knows the Pikes Peak course inside out.

The historic “Race to the Clouds” (this year held 25-30 June) climbs almost 1,500 metres to the 4,300 metre summit of Pikes Peak mountain. First run in 1916, the hill climb this year celebrates its 91st anniversary, making it the USA’s second oldest motor race after the Indianapolis 500. Atmospheric pressure, temperature, weather and other conditions vary significantly between start and finish, requiring optimum tuning to ensure maximum performance all the way up.

“Outstanding” Mitsubishi dealers collect Diamond accolades

Thu, 23 May 2013 15:57:01 +1200

Seven Mitsubishi Motors dealers, from Auckland to Timaru, were awarded the company’s prestigious Diamond Dealer accolade at a black-tie celebration in Queenstown on 18 May.

The winning dealers all "excelled in customer service, sales and dealership operations" said Mitsubishi’s sales and marketing GM Warren Brown. “They rose to the challenge to deliver across-the-board results that were simply outstanding and earn themselves the Diamond Dealer trophy, our pinnacle award that brings peer and market recognition for overall excellence."

The new Diamond Dealers are: Matthew Wales of Andrew Simms Mitsubishi, Newmarket; Mark Barton of Auckland Motors Mitsubishi, Manukau; Darrell Russell of Piako Mitsubishi, Morrinsville; Simon Lucas of Simon Lucas Mitsubishi, North Shore; Wayne Kirk of Wayne Kirk Mitsubishi, Napier and Hastings; Phil Downing of Caroline Motors Mitsubishi, Timaru; and parts and service dealer Phil Saxton of Hutt City Mitsubishi.

“While these dealers proved themselves exceptional”, said Mr Brown, “the whole Mitsubishi dealer network is to be congratulated for bringing about an unprecedented 40 months of continuous year-on-year growth that has resulted in more and more owners enjoying a Mitsubishi”.

Auckland Motors Mitsubishi, picking up a record 10^th Diamond Dealer award, also won the award for the highest level of customer satisfaction among the group of larger dealers, and were the first recipients of a new “people’s choice” award voted by Mitsubishi’s management team, recognising the dealership’s dedication to the Mitsubishi brand.

Diamond Dealer Award Winners:

As the iconic Mirage returns, Mitsubishi says “Let’s do it all again!”

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 16:22:26 +1300

Mitsubishi’s Mirage, first seen here in 1978 and a staunch family favourite in the 80s and 90s, is poised for a 21st Century comeback.

As the close of last century over 51,000 Kiwi drivers had chosen the iconic hatchback, and so had 5 million more in 160 different countries. Mirage deserved its popularity: spacious, functional, affordable, fun to drive, and with quirky but embraceable innovations such as its one-out-of-the-box Super Shift twin-lever transmission.

Now, after a decade’s absence, a new strikingly styled 5-door, 5-seat Mirage is due in dealer showrooms late February, and Mitsubishi is saying “Let’s do it all again!” There’s plenty about the car to suggest that’s exactly what’s about to happen.

The Mirage designers’ ambition was to recapture the driving enjoyment and throw-it-all-in-the-back functionality that so endeared the car to Kiwi drivers, while adding massive leaps in safety and green technology, such as its 4.6l/100km fuel economy (the best in the “small auto hatchback” class).

Indeed, the newcomer is packed with features that early owners could scarcely have dreamed of. Back in the car’s heyday, what might they have thought of Bluetooth connectivity? Or the active stability control system that kicks in if there’s a skid risk? Keyless entry? Electric power steering? Or ABS to prevent wheels locking up in emergency braking? A transmission that had no gearbox? Fingertip audio controls? All-round airbags? Or hill start assist, keeping you safe and steady as you move off up a slope?

The 2013 Mirage incorporates all these once-inconceivable aids to safe driving and sheer convenience, adding to the sense of fun and functionality that helped make its name across the world.

One early Mirage innovation remains unchanged: the very practical 60:40 split-folding rear seat that gives you the flexibility to use every bit of available space. Leave the second row seats in place and cargo room is an ample 235 litres: put them down and available space rockets to 912 litres and frees up a flat area 1.24m by 1.17m. There’s no compromise on people space either: seats are snug and supportive and make the most of the car’s 1,665mm breadth.

The generation 6 Mirage, just a handspan shorter in length than the Colt it succeeds, is driven by the new 1.2 litre SmartMIVEC engine. Lively and thrifty, it packs ample power for safe motorway overtaking yet uses as little as 4.6 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres (or 61 mpg), promising change out of $70 for a Sky City-Beehive run. To keep you in touch with your eco-progress an “eco” lamp lights up when you’re driving efficiently.

Mirage’s novel SuperShift transmission was consigned to history long ago, of course, though it’s remembered for its originality. Now putting the MIVEC power to the road is Mitsubishi’s latest INVECS III wide-ratio CVT constant velocity transmission. Sounds hi-tech, and it is. But to drive, it’s simple as. INVECS III uses belts instead of cogs: there are no actual ‘gear changes’, just a no-nonsense, seamless delivery of power.

Mirage hits the scales at under 900 kilograms, about 160 kg less than Colt. The designers made free use of strong-but-light high-tensile steel to shed weight almost everywhere, helping deliver remarkably healthy fuel economy and correspondingly low unhealthy carbon dioxide emissions, under 106/km.

All that extra high-tensile steel doesn’t just help make Mirage 7% lighter than comparable cars. It’s also a crucial element in Mitsubishi’s RISE (reinforced impact safety evolution) body design, absorbing and dispersing impact forces in a collision from any direction, while the six airbags stand ready to inflate in milliseconds to protect driver and passengers. That's why Mirage has achieved the highest safety rating possible - a 5 Star ANCAP.

There are two Mirage models, LS and GLS, and both have a level of equipment way beyond what their modest pricing might suggest: including six airbags, SmartBrake, Hill Start Assist, ABS braking with EBS and active stability control, security immobiliser, keyless entry, power windows, electric power steering, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio and Bluetooth controls, USP and iPod connectivity.

In addition, the GLS model has 15” alloy wheels, front fog lights, rear privacy glass, rear spoiler and auto air conditioning.

Mirage comes in seven colours: Cool Silver, Wasp, Panther Black, Wasabi, Pure White, Neptune and Red Velvet.

Whichever model, whatever colour, the new owner benefits from New Zealand’s best new car warranty, Diamond Advantage: a 10 year/160,000km powertrain warranty, a 5 year/130,000km new vehicle warranty and 5 year/130,000km roadside assist.

Recommended retail prices are:

LS $18,990
GLS $21,990.

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The all-new 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander has arrived

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 10:15:33 +1300

Mitsubishi’s all-new Outlander launching this week, is set to repeat one of the big success stories of New Zealand motoring.

Over 7,500 Kiwi owners (and a million more worldwide) have enjoyed what’s become one of NZ’s favourite midsize SUVs. Now comes the third-generation 2013 Outlander, a totally re-engineered premium vehicle packed with technology and delivering even more driving pleasure, greater passenger safety and massively improved fuel economy.

The new Outlander is the world’s first model designed, from the outset, for petrol and diesel engines and PHEV plug-in hybrid technology too. (The hybrid will be here mid-2013).

New Smart MIVEC 2-litre and 2.4-litre petrol engines use up to 20 percent less fuel than current models. A super-smooth 2.2 litre clean diesel, with exceptional low-down torque and 5.8l/100km economy, joins the line-up for the first time.

Inside, there’s been a quiet revolution: everywhere you look there’s a soft-touch premium look and feel. Extraordinary extra space, too. Exterior dimensions are unchanged, yet the designers have freed up more room everywhere: third row passengers benefit handsomely, and when you fold down the rear seats you discover a bigger-than-ever 1.7m-long flat floor. There’s easy access from the power tailgate, operated remotely from your console or your smart key (VRX only).

A big chunk of Outlander’s appeal, of course, is its go-anywhere do-anything capability. Five of the six new models are 4WD, electronically-controlled to give you full off-road confidence. For daily use, an eco mode shifts from two driven wheels to four when the system senses the road getting slippery.

Smart Fuel economy

Mitsubishi has developed its cleanest, most efficient internal combustion engines yet. The new Smart MIVEC 2-litre and 2.4-litre petrol engines, a total redesign of Mitsubishi’s continuously variable valve-lifting system, pave the way for massive cuts in fuel use and emissions.

The 2.2-litre clean diesel combines 366Nm torque and 2-tonne braked towing capacity with class-leading economy - a potential 1,000 kilometres from a single tankful.

Aiding and abetting the engines’ economy achievements are 7 percent less drag from improved aerodynamics, savings from the petrol models’ CVT transmission - further refined for better gear selection timing - and a 100kg weight saving from more use of high-tensile steel, the lightweight alloy wheels fitted to all Outlanders, and other design tweaks.

Advanced safety

Constantly helping you avoid a possible highway shunt is the VRX models’ new “e-Assist” technology. Select cruise control and ACC (adaptive cruise control) keeps the car at your pre-selected safe distance from the vehicle in front. FCM (forward collision mitigation) senses a possible collision, primes the brakes and alerts the driver: if the driver doesn’t brake, FCM does.

Other advances include the "wide vision" xenon headlamps whose 1,350 lumen beams light up twice as much road as conventional HID lamps, and the 125 degree extreme wide-angle rear view monitor system that in every Outlander is integrated into the seven-inch touch screen audio panel.

A 5-star safety rating for 2013 Outlander is anticipated.

Quiet revolution

Pursuing every last opportunity to improve quietness and refinement, Outlander’s interior designers decided a shade more window glass could mitigate some exterior noise: not huge, but it adds to the decibel and vibration protection created elsewhere through clever soundproofing, cutting back oscillation, and suspension insulation innovations. In technical terms it’s about minimising NVH, or noise, vibration and harshness, but for whoever’s in the car it’s about being in a calm, relaxing environment with minimum distractions.

Outlander’s interior is replete with premium materials, a new padded, soft-touch feel with a refined silver- or wood-accented finish; leather seats with power controls and heating for driver and front passenger; comfortable, full size third row seats, 120mm wider overall and split 50/50 to maximise flexibility; dual zone air conditioning so driver and front passenger can each choose their preferred setting, without debate.

Space vehicle

All the modern styling and hi-tech 4WD performance in the world wouldn’t get you into an SUV unless it had plenty of easily-accessible space to let you do what you want to do. Clearly, Outlander’s exceptionally easy-to-use space helped put it to the forefront of NZ’s mid-size SUVs.

Mitsubishi’s “space engineers” have gone a step further. Seating is now tailored more flexibly still. A new double-action folding mechanism for the 60/40-split second row seats lets the user raise the seat cushion and fold forward the seat back with much less effort. These seats now slide 250mm, providing more legroom for third-row passengers and easier access to the 50/50-split third-row seats, which now have a "one-touch tilt down" action: fold forward the seat back, and the seat lowers.

2013 Outlander models and recommended retail prices:

2WD LS $39,990 (5 seat)

SmartMIVEC 2-litre petrol: 112kW, 193Nm, 6.6l/100km, 151g/km

4WD LS $43,990 (5 seat), XLS $47,490 & VRX $54,490 (7 seat)

SmartMIVEC 2.4-litre petrol: 126kW, 224Nm, 7.5l/100km, 172g/km

4WD VR $49,990, VRX $56,990 (7 seat)

Clean diesel 2.2-litre: 112kW, 366Nm, 5.8l/100km, 151g/km.

All models have 6-speed CVT or auto transmission, seven seats (except LS), seven airbags (including driver’s knee), ABS braking with EBD & ASC, ATC, Smart Brake, Hill Start Assist, reversing camera with dash display, reversing sensors, leather-covered steering wheel with controls for cruise control, audio and Bluetooth, USB port and wireless Bluetooth audio streaming, tilt/telescopic steering column with electric power steering, push-button engine start (except LS 2-litre), eco settings for engine and transmission, 60/40 split fold second row seats, turning circle 10.6m, braked towing 1,600kg petrol (2,000kg diesel), alloy wheels, full size spare, and dual zone air conditioning (all models except LS). XLS also has auto light and rain sensor. VRX also has Mitsubishi e-Assist (Adaptive Cruise Control & Forward Collision Mitigation), satellite navigation system, leather seats, heated front seats, power driver’s seat adjustment, power tailgate with remote opening key.

Outlander is available in Cool Silver, Titanium, Toffee, Atlantic Blue, Cardrona or Amethyst Black and is backed by Mitsubishi’s Diamond Advantage warranty: 10 year/160,000km powertrain warranty, 5 year/130,000km new vehicle warranty and 5 year/130,000km roadside assist.

*Specifications vary between models

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander. A quiet revolution.

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 08:30:00 +1300

How thick are the windows in your car?

If that’s never occurred to you, it’s scarcely surprising. However, the engineers designing the interior of Mitsubishi’s 2013 Outlander have given it plenty of attention. In pursuing every last opportunity to improve quietness and refinement they decided a sound-mitigating gain could be had by putting more glass between the people in the car and the noise outside.

It’s not huge – the tempered glass side windows have been thickened to 4mm - but it adds to the decibel and vibration protection that’s been created elsewhere through clever positioning of soundproofing materials, by ensuring engine mount systems better absorb engine oscillation, and a host of other innovations from improved suspension insulation to more wind-cheating door mirror design. In technical terms it’s all about minimising NVH, or noise, vibration and harshness, but for whoever’s in the car it’s about being in a calm, relaxing environment with minimum distractions.

Current owners investigating the 2013 models for themselves will find there’s been a quiet revolution: everywhere you look there’s a refined silver- or wood-accented finish with premium quality materials; a new padded, soft-touch feel; leather seats with power controls and heating for driver and front passenger; comfortable, full size third row seats, 120mm wider overall and split 50/50 to maximise flexibility; dual zone air conditioning so driver and front passenger can each choose their preferred setting, without debate*.

There’s a surprising sense of extra space too. Outwardly the new Outlander carries the same dimensions as before. Nonetheless the designers have freed up more room everywhere, and when you fold down the rear seats you discover a bigger-than-ever 1.7m-long floor, with easy access from the power tailgate.
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Watch for the new Outlander arriving soon in Mitsubishi showrooms from Kaitaia to Invercargill, ready to add outstanding motoring pleasure to the lives of thousands more Kiwi drivers.

Call 0800 54 53 52 to register your interest today!

*Specifications and features listed may vary between models

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander. Space vehicle.

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 08:27:50 +1300

All the modern styling and hi-tech 4WD performance in the world wouldn’t get you to consider an SUV unless it had plenty of easily-accessible space to let you do the things you want to do.

Since the “u” in SUV is for “utility” you’d say that’s a given, yes?

Well, not always, and there’s no doubt Mitsubishi Outlander’s exceptionally easy-to-use space helped earn its long-term place as one of New Zealand’s favourite mid-size SUV.

For the 2013 range, Mitsubishi’s “space engineers” have gone a step further.

They’ve evolved the seating so it can be tailored even more flexibly. A new double-action folding mechanism for the 60/40-split second row seats lets the user raise the seat cushion and fold forward the seat back with much less effort.

These seats now slide 250mm, providing more legroom for third-row passengers and easier access to the 50/50-split third-row seats, which now have a "one-touch tilt down" action: fold forward the seat back, and the seat lowers.

With second and third-row seats folded away in 7-seat versions, there’s now a luggage compartment that’s 1.7 m long, 335 mm more than the current Outlander: room to slide in five extra cases of wine. More than enough for the weekend.

That massive compartment is sealed by a new power tailgate. You can operate the close switch on the door itself or remotely, from your console or your smart key: the tailgate reverses direction immediately if anything’s in the way. Meanwhile, as you click into reverse, you can see everything that’s happening behind your Outlander in the 7-inch rear view monitor that’s incorporated into your touch screen audio system.

Your smart key operates the engine, of course, as well as the doors. Just push the engine switch to start. But first, settle into your most comfortable driving position by tilting or telescoping the steering wheel up to 40 mm.

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Watch for the new Outlander arriving soon in Mitsubishi showrooms from Kaitaia to Invercargill, ready to add outstanding motoring pleasure to the lives of thousands more Kiwi drivers.

Call 0800 54 53 52 or visit http://www.mmnz.co.nz/outlander/new-outlander/ to register your interest today!

*Specifications and features listed may vary between models

New Outlander tipped to slice up to 19% off fuel bill

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 13:23:53 +1300

Mitsubishi’s world-first mass-produced passenger electric vehicle - the i MiEV - set the benchmark for environmentally friendly auto engineering. Now the automaker has developed its cleanest, most efficient internal combustion engine yet – the new Smart MIVEC* that powers the all-new 2013 Outlander.

With an expectation that, even by 2020, four out of five new cars will still have spark-ignition engines, Mitsubishi is leading a parallel attack to diminish emissions and fuel use on both fronts, EVs and conventionally-fuelled vehicles. Enter Smart MIVEC, totally redesigned to reduce CO₂ emissions by up to a massive 19 percent - right now.

At the same time, says technical services manager Lloyd Robinson, this latest development of Mitsubishi’s continuously variable valve-lifting system enables Outlander to cut fuel use by up to a similar percentage.

“It achieves this through incredibly precise timing of the opening and closing of the intake and exhaust valve, whatever the operating conditions happen to be.” Smart MIVEC’s key enhancement is critical to cutting fuel use and emissions. Instead of - as previously - opening or closing a valve fully on each camshaft rotation, typically fifty times a second, it opens the valve only minutely if that’s all the engine needs to run efficiently at any particular moment. The tiny amount of energy saved each time, just a few drops of fuel a second, multiplies into a massive saving of both fuel and emissions.

Smart MIVEC results from fine-tuning well-proven technology to the nth degree. Other Outlander advances - this time helping you avoid a possible highway shunt - stem from scientific experiments begun in the 19^th Century. Heinrich Hertz’ early insights eventually led to radar and paved the way for the 77 GHz (gigahertz) safer-driving devices installed behind the grille of the new Outlander VRX. Select cruise control and one system (ACC, or adaptive cruise control) not only fulfils the usual cruise control function but also, automatically, keeps the car at your pre-selected safe distance from the vehicle in front. Another system (FCM, or forward collision mitigation) senses the risk of a possible collision, instantly primes the brakes and alerts the driver: if the driver doesn’t brake, FCM does so automatically.

Mitsubishi terms these new systems “e-assist” and they’re symbolic of Outlander’s new safety technology: for example, the "wide vision" xenon headlamps whose 1,350 lumen beams light up twice as much road as conventional HID lamps, and the bumper-height reversing camera that sends a 125 degree extreme wide-angle rear image to the 7” touch screen display (which it shares with satellite navigation).

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Watch for the new Outlander arriving soon in Mitsubishi showrooms from Kaitaia to Invercargill, ready to add outstanding motoring pleasure to the lives of thousands more Kiwi drivers.

Call 0800 54 53 52 or visit http://www.mmnz.co.nz/outlander/new-outlander/ to register your interest today!

* MIVEC: Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control system

Specifications and features listed may vary between models

New-generation Outlander. Outstandingly Fuel Efficient.

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 16:30:32 +1300

One reason for Mitsubishi Outlander’s longstanding reputation as New Zealand’s favourite mid-size SUV has been its remarkable fuel economy. The all new 2013 range, due soon, promises frugality of a whole new order.

Take its new Smart-MIVEC* engines.

Mitsubishi says that the 2.4-litre installed in the three 4WD models (LS, XLS and VRX) consumes 19 percent less petrol than the engine it’s replacing. (Emissions are down 19 percent too).

While the engine designers have worked long and hard to help achieve this, they can’t take all the credit. Much more than this impacts on fuel economy.

Wind resistance is one example: Mitsubishi says that the new model’s windcheating design brings its drag coefficient down 7 percent. So less fuel’s needed to push it through the air.

Transmission is another: the Outlander’s well-regarded CVT transmission has been further refined ( for better gear selection timing). This saves more litres.

Yet another example is a biggie. It’s an immutable law of auto design that less weight equals less fuel use and here the new models score big-time: the 6 percent more high-tensile steel used in building the body, along with new, lightweight alloy wheels and other design tweaks, plays a part in taking a full 100 kilograms out of the average Outlander’s weight when compared with the previous model.

No longer do you have to carry the weight of a beefy All Black in the back seat.

Owners of the new 2WD LS will share these fuel efficiency benefits too, plus 13 percent better fuel use from their 2-litre Smart-MIVEC engine.

We haven’t mentioned the new diesel yet.. Buyers of the VR and VRX models can now choose Mitsubishi’s latest 2.2-litre Clean Diesel: very smooth, and with exceptional low-down torque.

And while every Outlander strives to give you maximum fuel economy, every Outlander gives you a part to play too: select Eco Driving Mode and the engine automatically switches over to maximum fuel efficiency, minimum emissions. You’ll see the results instantly displayed on the instrument panel.

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Watch for the new Outlander arriving soon in Mitsubishi showrooms from Kaitaia to Invercargill, ready to add outstanding motoring pleasure to the lives of thousands more Kiwi drivers.

Call 0800 54 53 52 or visit http://www.mmnz.co.nz/outlander/new-outlander/ to register your interest today!

* MIVEC: Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control system

Specifications and features listed may vary between models

New-generation Outlander. Outstanding.

Thu, 04 Oct 2012 16:30:32 +1300

Mitsubishi’s Outlander is one of the big success stories of New Zealand motoring.

With over 7,500 Kiwi owners (and a million more worldwide) enjoying what’s become NZ’s favourite midsize SUV, Outlander has enabled families and fleets alike to enjoy total flexibility to use the vehicle just how they want.

Now, for 2013, comes the all-new third-generation Outlander, re-engineered to deliver a premium vehicle packed with technology to assist driving pleasure, passenger safety and fuel economy.

The new Outlander has plenty to get you thinking. For a start, it’s the first model ever designed, from the outset, for petrol and diesel engines and plug-in hybrid technology.

New Smart-MIVEC 2-litre and 2.4-litre petrol engines use up to 19 percent less fuel than current models. A super-smooth 2.2 litre diesel, with exceptional low-down torque, joins the line-up for the first time.

Current owners will find there’s been a revolution: everywhere you look there’s a new, soft-touch premium look and feel that will make the journey ever more relaxed.

Surprising extra space too. Outwardly the new Outlander carries the same dimensions as before. Nonetheless its designers have freed up extraordinary extra space: more room everywhere, especially for third row passengers, and when you fold down the rear seats you discover a bigger-than-ever 1.7m-long floor, with easy access from the power tailgate

There’s a new level of safety technology, automatically keeping you safely clear of the vehicle in front or braking to help avoid a collision. Inside, among key additions to the long feature list Outlander’s become renowned for is the extra comfort of dual-zone air conditioning and a rear view monitor system that’s integrated, along with satellite navigation, into the seven-inch touch screen audio panel.

A big chunk of Outlander’s appeal, of course, is its go-anywhere do-anything capability, and five of the six petrol or diesel-engined models have 4WD, electronically-controlled to give you full off-road confidence or, for daily use, an eco mode that shifts from two driven wheels to four when it senses the road getting slippery.

Watch for the new Outlander arriving soon in Mitsubishi showrooms from Kaitaia to Invercargill, ready to add outstanding motoring pleasure to the lives of thousands more Kiwi drivers.

Call 0800 54 53 52 or visit http://www.mmnz.co.nz/outlander/newoutlander/ to register your interest today!

*Specifications and features listed may vary between models.

Mitsubishi’s customer care judged motor industry’s best - two years running

Fri, 14 Sep 2012 16:32:30 +1200

For the second year in a row, Mitsubishi Motors’ customer care team scooped the transport and travel sector at the call centre industry’s annual CRM awards, on 14 September.

“Over a hundred top-flight contact centres entered, from eleven industry sectors”, said customer care centre manager Haig Davidson. “Being once again placed ahead of all other motor industry brands takes us another step towards our goal of providing New Zealand’s best customer service to our Mitsubishi owners. They are the real winners: they rightly expect us to be receptive and efficient every time, and we know we are only as good as our response to the next enquiry”.

Mitsubishi’s seven-strong Porirua-based group also achieved third place in the overall Supreme Award for customer care teams smaller than 50 people. In addition, Haig was again a finalist for “manager of the year” and the judges ranked team member Josh Harwood among their five favourite customer care representatives.

The CRM awards, begun 15 years ago, use exhaustive “mystery shopper” techniques to assess how effectively contact centres respond to customers’ phone and internet enquiries.

Other members of Mitsubishi’s team are Fiona Forsdyke, Sieanna Iafeta, Marama McGhie, Rowena Ah Von and Olivia Talalupe.

Racing EV’s 114km/h mountain climb

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 12:06:13 +1200

In its first drive in Colorado’s legendary 20-kilometre Pikes Peak international hill climb, Mitsubishi’s prototype all-electric i-MiEV Evolution race car climbed 1,400 m through the 156 mountainside corners at an average 114 km/h to finish eighth of 170 entries, and second in the EV class.

In the hands of two-time Dakar Rally champion Hiroshi Masuoka the car reached the

4,300 m summit - higher than Aoraki/Mount Cook - in 10 m 31 s, within 45 seconds of the all-time race record.

The i-MiEV Evolution racing prototype was purpose-built for Pikes Peak. The tube-framed, carbon-fibre-cowled 4WD uses the same major components as the production car but has three electric motors, one driving the front wheels and two more driving the rear. Together they develop 240kW of power - more than the Lancer Evolution X.

A near-standard production i-MiEV, the only street-legal EV in the race, finished the daunting climb with an average speed a fraction under 80 km/h. Its driver, professional-road racer Beccy Gordon, said: “It’s awesome! It produced a lot more power - especially torque - than I‘d expected. The handling was very good because the electric motor and lithium-ion batteries sit so low in the chassis. The car is really peppy”.

See the race cars at YouTube.com/MitsubishiCars

Mitsubishi’s restyled new ASX range

Mon, 20 Aug 2012 11:26:09 +1200

Mitsubishi’s compact crossover has built a dedicated following since it first arrived in 2010 - and not only here in New Zealand. It’s been a global success, Mitsubishi says, with over a quarter-million sold worldwide. The fresh new design look of the 2013 model, due in showrooms late August, promises to generate even more fans. This will be complimented by a large range of specification upgrades throughout and price-leading LS 2WD model.

The new ASX sports a significant redesign from front to rear, with a smoother, European-inspired outline that softens the overall appeal of the vehicle. There’s a two-tone feel, with sills and lower bumpers finished dark grey, and a softer, premium chrome-surrounded grille that meshes seamlessly with a new fog light design.

Mitsubishi’s Head of Sales and Marketing Strategy Daniel Cook says: “This softer new look will appeal to a much larger range of buyers than the previous aggressive stance of the ‘jetfighter’ grille. The vehicle will now look equally at home on the streets of Auckland as the ski fields of Wanaka.”

All four 2013 models get a good measure of detail design and equipment improvements, including; the impressive new six-inch LCD touch screen display that delivers fingertip control for the audio system and a big safe view for the reversing camera that’s now standard across the range.

In the interior all models also receive the newly designed Mitsubishi steering wheel that delivers improved driver ergonomics and use of fingertip controls for Bluetooth, audio and cruise control, new trims, and a push button 4WD selector on 4WD models. Sport models also get turn indicator lamps on the door mirrors and an auto dimming rear view mirror.

Among mechanical upgrades is a recalibration (technically, refined “mapping”) of the continuously-variable transmission (CVT), which Mitsubishi says gives better driving response than ever.

While powertrains continue as before - 2.0-litre 112kW MIVEC petrol with CVT and 1.8-litre 305 Nm MIVEC turbo diesel with six-speed manual transmission - braked towing capacity sees a whopping increase to 1300kg, and to 1400kg for the diesel. To balance the increase in transmission performance and tow ratings a new suspension package and steering controls have also been introduced.

“The darling of the new 2013 ASX range is the entry level LS 2WD which has seen huge specification upgrades at a significantly reduced price. This model offers versatility, style and comfort at the amazing price point of $31,990” says Cook. The LS model gains 16’ alloy wheel, touch screen audio with reversing camera, premium chrome package and all of the styling and technical improvements made across the ASX range.

“ASX has proved itself the right mix of performance, economy, safety and versatility for a great many Mitsubishi owners. The extra refinement of the 2013 models ensures the ASX has everything the crossover buyer is looking for”.

Fuel consumption ratings are 7.9l/100km for the LS and 2WD Sport, 8.1l/100km for the 4WD Sport and 5.7l/100km for the 4WD diesel manual.

ASX is a safe choice, with seven airbags, Mitsubishi’s RISE safe-construction technology, and a five-star maximum Euro ANCAP rating as tested on the 2WD models. Working quietly to keep everyone safe in the most difficult driving conditions are ABS anti-lock braking, Active Stability & Traction Control, Electronic Brake Distribution, Brake Assist, and the Smart Brake brake-override system.

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Mitsubishi i-MiEV features on TVNZ's Close Up

Fri, 29 Jun 2012 13:51:04 +1200

The Mitsubishi i-MiEV featured last night on TVNZ's Close up in a story about the continued development of electric vehicles.

Please click here to veiw the segment.

Porirua and Mitsubishi launch first Electric Car in PCC fleet

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 13:08:41 +1200

Mitsubishi Motors New Zealand (MMNZ) continues its 40-year relationship with the people of Porirua with the launch next week of the Council's first electric car.

Global leader of electric vehicle (EV) technology, Mitsubishi, released the all-electric i-MiEV in New Zealand last year and Porirua City Council has just added one to its fleet.

The i-MiEV is a four-door hatchback with strong, safe acceleration and a driving range of up to 150km. Just plug it into a 15-amp socket to charge overnight - and away you go.

"Mitsubishi have a long history with Porirua and its people, with its vehicle assembly plant operating here for more than 25 years, so it's great to be able to continue that tradition while also looking to providing sustainable ways of working that will benefit our future generations too," says Mayor Nick Leggett.

"Electric vehicles will play a significant part in reducing greenhouse emissions and Mitsubishi are leaders in this new technology. Feedback from those trialed in Wellington City over the past year is that they are ideal for urban commuting - Porirua is just 20 minutes from Wellington - and ‘around town’ motoring."

Mitsubishi Motors NZ head of sales and marketing strategy Daniel Cook says: “These are the first mass produced EVs available to Kiwis and we’re excited to be able to deliver such leading edge environmentally conscious technology. Being all electric the i-MiEV emits no harmful CO2, and its running costs are very low. A full overnight recharge costs about $5 and, depending on conditions, this can power the i-MiEV for up to 150km: more than enough for the average commute of 32 km / day”.

If caught short in the city, Wellington EV drivers now also have inner-city recharging options. At its Harbour City Z Service Station, Greenstone Energy has installed a free 15-amp charging post.

“The revolutionary Mitsubishi i-MiEV is a whole new way of thinking about transportation, embodying the latest developments in technological innovation” says Mr Cook. “The high-power, low noise electric engine delivers a drive unlike any vehicle on New Zealand roads”.

All charged up – cars, bicycles and motorbikes

Tue, 19 Jun 2012 12:01:36 +1200

A state-of-the-art line-up of electric vehicles – including a 200kmh sports car - bicycles, scooters and motorcycles will be on show as part of Electric Vehicle Day at Te Papa tomorrow (Wednesday 20 June).

Electric Vehicle Day is an initiative of Mayor Celia Wade-Brown and is supported by local electric vehicle businesses and owners.

On display will be the first electric sports car in New Zealand - a Tesla roadster capable of 200kmh – along with Mitsubishi iMiEVs, the Nissan Leaf, an electric motorbike, a number of scooters and bicycles. It is a free public event and there will be an opportunity to test-drive electric-assist bikes.

The event coincides with a workshop on electric vehicles run by the APEC Expert Group on New and Renewable Energy Technologies (EGNRET). The workshop, also at Te Papa on Wednesday, is being organised by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA).

The APEC workshop will share the results of an APEC funded research project that EECA is leading. The workshop will also consider how to harmonise policy and standards to improve the distribution of EVs across national boundaries. APEC economies and interested parties will be invited to have their say on the research results and outcome of the workshop.

The first all-electric vehicles in New Zealand – Mitsubishi i-MiEV cars – have been running around Wellington streets as part of the two-year electricar trial run by Wellington City Council. Trial participants included the Council, New Zealand Post, The Wellington Company and Meridian Energy. The trial started in September 2010 and now involves eight of the cars.

A survey of user perceptions found overwhelming support for the vehicles. Further findings and experiences from the trial will be presented at the workshop. The workshop is a closed session that will cover EV progress around the world, EV trial results from NZ and Australia, Induction Charging technology, and a manufacturers update.

EVs are rapidy gaining popularity and Electric Vehicle Day is an opportunity for Wellingtonians and APEC workshop delegates to check out a range of vehicles first hand. The Government has extended the current exemption for light electric motor vehicles from the requirement to pay road user charges, from 2013 to 2020.

The Tesla electric sports car has been imported from the US by its owner, Ian Mirandah of Wellington, and is the only one of its type

“With our short travelling distance and abundant renewable energy electric vechicles (EVs) are a good transport choice in Wellington,” says Mayor Wade-Brown.

“For anyone who’s deterred from cycling by headwinds or steep hills, an electric-assist bike is a great help.

“This event is in excellent opportunity for the public take a closer look and maybe test drive an electric bike.

“The Council and its business partners are keen to see the uptake of electric transport technologies, which exist now in the market and cover a range of vehicle types and prices.

“I am determined that Wellington takes the lead in encouraging EV technologies for businesses and individuals. We are doing this a number ways – promoting the continuation of the trolley bus network, maintaining an electric car presence in the Council vehicle fleet, investigating electric bikes for official Council use, developing and presenting the business case for electric vehicles, investigating infrastructure requirements for EVs and assisting in the uptake of electric vehicles in corporate fleets.”

As part of Electric Vehicle Day, the film Revenge of the Electric Car will be shown at Te Papa at 12.15pm and 6.45pm. Entry is by gold coin donation to cover costs. This film on the global resurgence of electric cars featured as the opening production at the recent Documentary Edge Festival in Wellington.

Mitsubishi’s Dakar winner to race 240kW EV

Fri, 18 May 2012 16:24:10 +1200

The Pajero driver who once posted consecutive overall victories in the 10,000km Dakar Rally has a very different challenge to face in July.

Hiroshi Masuoka will pilot a race-prepared “Evolution” version of Mitsubishi’s i-MiEV electric car over the 20 kilometres of the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in Colorado.

Hiroshi aims to win the Electric Class in the tube-framed, carbon-fibre-cowled four-wheel-drive car, which uses the same major components as the production i-MiEV but has three electric motors, one driving the front wheels and two more driving at the rear. Together they develop 240kW. That’s more power than the Lancer Evolution X puts out.

“Given the tough driving conditions Pikes Peak is known for”, Hiroshi said, “I’m really keen to show that in addition to their environmental benefits electric vehicles are capable of gutsy performance and handling.”

Mitsubishi has also entered a production i-MiEV, standard except for special tyres, roll bars and other safety equipment, and a little extra streamlining. It will be driven by American off-road racer Beccy Gordon, whose father, brother and sister have all been successful racing drivers, as is her husband, Indycar driver Ryan Hunter-Reay. Beccy said: “I’m really looking forward to giving it my best in the type of vehicle that is set to become a major player in motor sports in future.”

The July event is the 90^th version of the annual “Race to the Clouds”, which climbs 1,400 metres through 156 corners to the Pikes Peak summit which, at 4,300 metres, would tower above Aoraki/ Mount Cook. High altitudes are no threat to electric motors, which don’t suffer from power loss in thin air as do conventional engines.

*Hiroshi Masuoka drove Pajeros in 20 Dakar Rallies, back to back, and won in 2002 and 2003. Today he works with Mitsubishi on new vehicle development and trains company test drivers.

Special-edition Triton 4WD predicted to be Mystery Creek’s “best value”

Thu, 10 May 2012 08:41:28 +1200

There’s no mystery about what will be the best value ute at the Mystery Creek National Agricultural Fieldays, says Mitsubishi.

They predict the latest special-edition sport-specification Triton ChargerX will be the “value-for-money” star when Fieldays - the biggest trade show of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere - opens on 13 June.

The new double cab ChargerX is based on the popular GLX 4WD. However, Mitsubishi says it’s equipped to look and drive like a top-range GLS, yet at an incredible price: for the manual transmission version, $35,990 plus GST and on road costs.

Mitsubishi claims this is the best value price ever seen in New Zealand for a sport specification ute equipped with electronic stability and traction control and a full set of airbags.

The one-tonne-payload ChargerX produces 407 Nm of torque from its 2.5 litre turbodiesel. It has front, side and curtain airbags, ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution, and tows a 3.0 tonne braked trailer.

Its sport spec instantly sets it apart. Chrome, silver and leather accents abound, there’s carpeting throughout, protected with ChargerX logo’d mats, bucket-type front seats, sport side steps and smart alloys. The four-speaker Bluetooth-integrated sound system has MP3 and USB inputs.

“While some businesses are riding high, many are not, and buyers are rightly demanding exceptional value when they need to invest in a work vehicle”, said Mitsubishi’s head of sales and marketing strategy Daniel Cook. “We’re excited that in ChargerX we can help customers get a sharp-looking, high-spec, high-performance vehicle into their business fleet - or their home garage - despite tightly-squeezed budgets”.

If you can’t get to Mitsubishi’s Fieldays stand you can see the ChargerX, manual and auto, in Mitsubishi dealer showrooms from late May.

Auckland dealer is Mitsubishi’s “most capped”

Tue, 01 May 2012 11:55:56 +1200

Auckland Motors Mitsubishi dealer principal Mark Barton earned a place in history when he won a Diamond Dealer award at the auto company’s black tie awards evening at Taupo on Friday (27 April).

Mitsubishi’s sales and marketing general manager Warren Brown said Mr Barton, leader of an operation that had served the Auckland public very successfully since 1908, had “the distinction and honour of becoming the most capped Diamond Dealer ever, with nine awards now in his trophy cabinet”.

The latest award, said Mr Brown, comes as a three-year redevelopment of the dealership’s massive Manukau City site is about to be topped off by the opening of a new 450sqm showroom. Auckland Motors Mitsubishi also won the award for finance dealer of the year.

Mitsubishi’s pinnacle Diamond Dealer awards, recognising all-round excellence, also went to Napier (Wayne Kirk, Wayne Kirk Mitsubishi), Morrinsville (Darrell Russell, Piako Mitsubishi), Newmarket (Andrew Simms, Andrew Simms Mitsubishi), and Tauranga (Keith Henderson, Bay City Mitsubishi).

Baigent Motors of Matamata, with a six-decade legacy of “outstanding service” to customers in the Waikato town, were the first winners of a new Diamond Dealer award for service and parts dealerships.

Manager Justin Scelly received the award from Mitsubishi’s managing director Masao Tanuma. Malcolm Lovett Automotive (Ashburton) and Cavanagh Motors (Te Puke) were finalists.

Mr Brown said the Diamond Dealer awards were made against the backdrop of a 40% lift in the number of customers choosing a new Mitsubishi car, van or ute over the past two years, heading dealerships into what he described as a “very bright future indeed”. The awards – limited to seven each year – stimulated dealers to “excel in every aspect of their operations”.

The Diamond Dealer award also went to high-profile Mitsubishi Fuso truck dealer Keith Andrews, who had “transformed” the Auckland dealership he acquired last year.

Smart grid concept nears reality

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 14:54:26 +1200

The “smart grid” concept - large-scale use of rechargeable batteries to avoid costly peak-demand electricity - has come a step nearer reality.

Mitsubishi Motors is collaborating with sister businesses Mitsubishi Electric and Mitsubishi Corporation in a project demonstrating the benefits of “load shifting”: recharging the batteries of electric vehicles (EVs) at night when demand is low, storing power produced from renewable sources in rechargeable batteries, and supplying power back to the grid when factories and offices face peak demand.

The demonstration project consists of a photovoltaic system collecting 20 kW of solar energy, five electrically-dischargeable EVs and 80 kWh of used rechargeable batteries collected from EVs. The project, installed at the offices of Mitsubishi’s Nagoya vehicle plant, will provide up to 50 kW of power.

The three companies will work together to apply the knowledge obtained from the project, with the goal of contributing towards a more sustainable society.

i-MiEV could power a home if disaster strikes

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 14:45:57 +1300

Mitsubishi will bring to market in April a device that - in the event of a natural disaster or a power outage - enables an i-MiEV electric car owner in Japan to power domestic appliances or light the house from its 16kW hour drive battery.

The briefcase-sized “MiEV power BOX” adapter plugs into the car’s quick-charging connector and can supply up to 1.5kW of AC power for five to six hours, equivalent to a typical Japanese home’s daily consumption.

Much attention is being focussed in Japan on the storage capabilities of high capacity EV batteries as an emergency power source. The MiEV power BOX is an example of how Mitsubishi is pushing forward its R & D into EV-related technologies and the near-future prospect of "smart grids", which will allow more effective use of electrical power.