Commentary by Bob Aldons - Northstar Mitsubishi

With the revised and face-lifted Mitsubishi Outlander coming to market later this year, there's every chance that Mitsubishi Motors Australia will have special deals through to the end of this model.

Currently on sale is the Platinum Outlander with great value items such as Leather trim at no extra charge. Outlander is a medium SUV competing against the likes of Nissan X Trail, Holden Captiva and VW Tiguan. Where Mitsubishi comes up trumps is with their 10 year warranty, 4 years roadside assistance and capped price 4 year service package. These Diamond Care items tend to be a bit hard to value, but think in the order of $4000 at retail pricing.

And there's the car - reliable, good looks and great engine and transmission. if you're in the market for a medium SUV, check out the Mitsubishi range at Northstar Mitsubishi, 218 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the beautiful Redcliffe Peninsula. You can also access all the information about Outlander online at www.northstarmitsubishi.com.au . and see our monthly specials at www.lovemycar.com.au .

For more information on Mitsubishi and other brands, you can also visit www.mycarreview.com.au .

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 04.04.2012

Mitsubishi unveiled today at the New York Auto Show the mildly face lifted 2013 Outlander Sport.

The compact crossover utility vehicle (CUV) will now be built in Mitsubishi's Normal, Illinois plant for domestic and foreign markets. The 5 seater is currently Mitsubishi's best-selling model in North American.

On the outside the 2013 Outlander Sport features redesigned front bumper, fog lamps, grille, side sills and rear bumper plus new 18-inch alloy wheels standard. The interior gets new fabrics and chrome trim for the front doors.

The rear multi-link suspension has been revised and the Continuously-Variable Transmission (CVT) has been recalibrated for improved acceleration and smoother shifting.

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) has unveiled an enhanced and improved 2013 Outlander Sport compact crossover utility vehicle (CUV) today at the 2012 New York International Auto Show.

Beginning in July, the 2013 Outlander Sport will be built in the United States at the company's advanced automobile manufacturing facility in America's heartland in Normal, Illinois. The updated, American-made Outlander Sport models produced here in the U.S will not only supply Mitsubishi dealers in the states but also be shipped to foreign markets.

With composed handling, a comfortable ride and roomy seating for 5 adults, this stylish crossover is currently the best-selling car in Mitsubishi Motors' North American model line-up.

The 2013 Outlander Sport features numerous design and feature improvements for the new model year:

Exterior

•    Front Fascia - Redesigned front bumper section; New grille styling; New fog lamp design.

•    Rear Bumper - New rear bumper design.

•    Side Sills - Side sills now black in colour to match the lower sections of the redesigned front & rear bumpers.

•    Handsome 18-in. alloy wheels now standard on all on all trim levels for the 2013 model.

Interior

•    New interior fabrics; New chrome accent moulding for the front doors; New All Wheel Control (AWC) push button switch.

Chassis

•    Revised rear multi-link suspension for improved handling and ride comfort.

Drive train

•    Enhanced Continuously-Variable Transmission (CVT) calibration for improved acceleration performance and smoother shift feeling.

Exterior Colour Availability

•    New hues White Pearl and Quick Silver join Laguna Blue, Labrador Black Pearl, Mercury Gray and Rally Red.

Fresh Face, Same Exceptional Value

The entire front fascia of the 2013 Outlander Sport has been completely made over versus last year's model. The signature pronounced, trapezoidal grille opening and recessed fog lamp housings are still present, but now feature a new, more simple and clean shape. Another appealing detail is the new chrome trim surrounding the outer perimeter of the recessed fog lamps.

Likewise, the rear fascia has been refreshed to complement the new look of the front fascia.

The highly-stylized front/rear fascia makeover - along with new black-colored side sills - enrich the Outlander Sport's already athletic-looking aesthetic demeanour, further separating Mitsubishi's compact crossover from its more mundane peers.

With an impressive EPA fuel mileage rating of 31 highway mpg, and the availability of either front- or all-wheel drive, the stylish 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is a compelling choice for young families or active individuals that combines the space and versatility of an SUV with the outstanding ride quality and improved fuel economy of an exceptionally engineered car.

Standard equipment on all Outlander Sport models includes stylish 18-in. alloy wheels; leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob; cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls; Electric Power Steering (EPS); FUSE Hands free Link System TM that allows voice-activated operation of an iPod® and a cell phone, remote keyless entry; eye-catching rear LED combination tail lamps; heated outside mirrors; steering wheel-mounted audio controls; and air conditioning with micron filter. Among the included safety features are driver knee airbag; Hill Start Assist (HSA); Active Stability Control (ASC); Traction Control Logic (TCL); anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist; and an advanced front air bag SRS with passenger weight and driver's seat position sensors, front seat-mounted side-impact air bags, and curtain side air bags with roll-over sensors.

The top-flight SE version adds further luxuries such as a dynamic 6 speaker premium audio system with SiriusXMTM satellite radio with 3-months subscription service; heated front seats; one-touch Start/Stop (OSS) engine switch; climate control system with full-auto air conditioning; rain-sensing wipers; super-wide beam xenon head lights and FAST key passive entry system.

Commentary by Bob Aldons - Northstar Mitsubishi

The News Limited Carsguide team review the forthcoming Mitsubishi Mirage and give it a pat on the back. The driving force for this car isn't it's good looks or interior space, even though it has it in spades, it's all about fuel efficiency.

The vehicle will feature Mitsubishi's 1.2 litre Mivec Engine and a stated fuel economy of 5.0 litres per 100 kilometers which makes it one of the most frugal vehicles in the small car class. With release around the same time as the Volkswagen Up there'll be  a battle royal in the last 3 months of the year.

Mirage is expected to be priced under $13000 whilst the Up is expected to be almost $2000 more. What price a badge?

To see the full range of Mitsubishi passenger, commercial and SUV vehicles drop into Northstar Mitsubishi at 218 Anzac Avenue Redcliffe, or shop online at www.northstarmitsubishi.com.au or www.lovemycar.com.au

The Mirage is focused on premium fuel efficiency and low CO2 emission.

Mitsubishi will start selling its new Mirage overseas from this week.

The "global compact car" will first be sold in Thailand, followed by ASEAN countries, Japan, Europe, then expand to other markets successively.

The Mirage was developed under a concept that fulfils the needs of both fast-growing emerging markets as an entry-level car and the eco-conscious advanced markets with its environmental performance. The Mirage will be made at a brand-new third factory at Mitsubishi Motors Thailand's (MMTh) Laem Chabang Plant; the largest MMC plant outside of Japan.

The Mirage is focused on premium fuel efficiency and low CO2 emission. The new tiddler delivers fuel efficiency and low CO2 emissions that are among the best in its class thanks to the all-new MIVEC1 engine and reduced aerodynamic resistance and rolling resistance.

It provides nimble handling inherent to a compact car while utilising high-efficiency packaging to maintain interior space for five adults. Optimisation of the body structure and more extensive use of high-tensile strength panel make the vehicle seven per cent lighter than is normal for its class, contributing to better fuel economy.

The Mirage uses Mitsubishi's impact-resistant RISE 3 body, which absorbs and distributes impact force to deliver high levels of occupant safety.

A high level of quality achieved through MMDS (Mitsubishi Motors Development System), a comprehensive quality management system that sets and assesses/evaluates the achievement of specific performance benchmarks within each stage of operations from vehicle planning, sales and after-sales services.

In addition, before production, Mitsubishi stationed experienced inspectors from its Japanese factories in Thailand to inspect manufactured units at the new third factory in order to make sure that the same quality standards from its Japanese factories are reached.

The Thai-market Mirage will be equipped with a 1.2L MIVEC engine and achieve around  5.0 litres/100KM  with a EURO 4 rating.

Commentary by Bob Aldons - Northstar Mitsubishi

Stuart Martin from The Advertiser reviews the latest Mitsubishi Pajero Exceed
This Mitsubishi Pajero model is old by anyone's standards but for real four wheel driving and excellent towing capacity its considered to be in a league of its own

Smooth enough round town to carry the family in comfort, Pajero comes into its own off road. Geoff Pickering, owner and grand master of Pickering's Mitsubishi in Townsville has raced Pajero in off road racing for over 10 years and despite owning a significant number of other brands that could participate, he sticks with the Pajero.

If you're after a 'pretty' four wheel drive, there's lots of others to consider. If you're a vehicle that can mix it with the best - pick Mitsubishi

Northstar Mitsubishi at 218 Anzac Avenue Redcliffe, will happily provide you with all the information you need about Pajero and four wheel driving. You can also visit their website at www.northstarmitsubishi.com.au for general information or check out the specials at www.lovemycar.com.au .


The retention of off-road ability means it is a versatile machine, but it's long overdue for replacement.  Stuart Martin road tests and reviews the 2012 Mitsubishi Pajero Exceed.


The Mitsubishi Pajero has been around for so long (in automotive terms) it's certainly nearing retirement age - but it seems that 2014 is the earliest it might get the gold watch.
Look at it in the same light as baby-boomers thinking twice about retirement post-GFC. Now classified as a large SUV, the largely-unchanged Pajero has been a staple of the SUV segment for almost a decade and still manages a steady 500 a month, albeit in a segment that is topped by vehicles selling nearly three times that.

VALUE

We're in the top-spec Exceed turbo-diesel flagship, a $77,690 proposition that is reasonably well-featured. The test car was fitted with a cargo barrier which kept it as a five-seater (the third row folds into the floor). The infotainment side of things is all controlled via a 7in colour touch screen, which contains the satnav, sound and DVD system, Bluetooth phone link and displays the reversing camera image.
There's an integrated iPod cable (although it wouldn't charge an iPhone) to connect to the excellent Rockford Fosgate 12-speaker sound system, the only bug-bear being lacklustre FM radio reception. Rear passengers can be kept occupied (and quiet, thankfully) by the DVD player with infra-red headphones (plus DVDs can be watched on the front screen when the car is stationary).
The features list also includes leather trim, power-adjustable and folding mirrors, automatic wipers and headlights, a leather/wood steering wheel, power-adjustable front seats, climate control (single zone with separate rear fan and control) and parking sensors.

TECHNOLOGY

Given the car has been around with only minor changes for the best part of a decade, cutting-edge technology is not its forte, but it's not been left completely behind either. The Exceed is powered by the 3.2-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder, which uses common-rail direct-injection fuel delivery to produce 147kW and 441Nm - adequate numbers but down on much of its immediate competition packing 500-plus Newton metres as well as a decent hike in power.
The Pajero is one of the few SUVs running a part-time 4WD system, which is not necessarily a bad thing. It can run in rear (which will possibly save a bit of fuel) or four-wheel drive on the tarmac and can be slipped between the two modes at speeds up to 100km/h.
The driveline also has a rear diff lock which - when teamed with lock centre diff and the electronic traction and stability control bits - means most off-road work is child's play.

DESIGN

The look has been given a few nips and tucks over the years but there's no mistaking the big wagon for anything other than the Pajero. The tall five door's rear door has the full-size spare on the outside, which makes life easier for keeping a decent cargo space, with the third row of seats tucked beneath the boot floor.
Cabin space is good without being great - rear seat space is adequate but the front occupants are placed too close to the doors. The driver is also hemmed in a bit by the dashboard and there's tilt-only adjustment for the steering, again a sign of the car's age.

SAFETY

It wears a five-star ANCAP rating and has the ability to run in 4WD on sealed surfaces - something of an advantage when the weather turns nasty. There's also six airbags (dual front, front-side and curtain airbags), as well as stability and traction control and anti-lock brake systems.

DRIVING

The Pajero is old-school off-roader in many ways - its drive train and vital statistics reflect that - so if you drove it on the school run and never got it dirty it would be a waste. It's no soft-roader. The daily grind in traffic reveals a relatively quiet cabin, but you still know it's a chuggy four-cylinder diesel providing the horsepower - the drive train is smooth but leisurely.
The cabin is comfortable (but not cavernous) and can be filled with noise from the 12-speaker sound system, while the rugrats are placated by the rear DVD player. The test car had a Milford cargo barrier fitted, which is excellent for occupant safety but makes the third row of seats redundant, unless you moonlight in the prisoner transport industry.
The cargo space isn't bad but the sub-woofer looks a little vulnerable on the left-hand wall of the boot. The big Mitsubishi needs to be leisurely through the bends too - an X5 it is not - but it becomes far more comfortable as the road surface changes.

Find a rough, loose back-track and the Pajero laps it up; select low-range and lock the rear diff lock in and it clambers over rutted, rocky tracks with a minimum of fuss. With 225mm of ground clearance, a fording depth claim of 700mm and useful approach and departure angles, the Pajero has maintained its off-road abilities, although the  Dunlop Grandtrek rubber on the test car is a jack-of-all trades tyre and was not great on any surface.

VERDICT

Asking not much change out of $80,000 is a big ask for the Pajero, in light of its more modern competition. It's got some good features and can complete all commuter duties without making life difficult and the retention of off-road ability means it is a versatile machine, but it's long overdue for replacement.

New Mitsubishi Outlander arrives late in 2012 or early in 2013 with a new look, new engines and the promise of the world's most innovative plug in hybrid electric vehicle before June of the same year.

Having had the opportunity to know more about this vehicle, you could say I'm excited. Outlander will be the first large market PHEV vehicle available in Australia - another first for Mitsubishi Australia.

Not only will we have the 4cylinder petrol engine along with the PHEV, but there's a solid rumour that we won't miss out on the diesel variant

if you'd like to know more call into Northstar Mitsubishi - 218 Anzac Avenue Redcliffe or visit us online at www.northstarmitsubishi.com.au

Mitsubishi Challenger 2WD reviewed by John Parry
by Bob Aldons - Northstar Mitsubishi

John Parry from the Weekly Times tells it like it is - a 2WD SUV is a compromise in this Mitsubishi Challenger, but the same applies to every 2WD SUV on the market.

Not sure which manufacturer started the trend from AWD/4WD to this configuration, but it's proving pretty popular. Why would you? In my opinion, it's the size of even a small SUV over its passenger vehicle counterpart - command position driver seating allows the driver (particularly of the female persuasion) to have a great view - simple as that. The size of the SUV also provides good storage space, lots of room for kids and friends of kids without the hassle of pushing a four wheel drive around in the city.

And John's correct a FWD or RWD SUV won't do the beach thing, but it will do gravel tracks without too many inclines remarkably well. Bottom line is that it saves you dollars. In the Mitsubishi range there are now three 2WD SUV's - Mitsubishi Outlander, Mitsubishi ASX and the Challenger. If you want a REAL 4WD, there's the Pajero which will get you out there and back. Test drive Outlander, ASX, Challenger and Pajero at my favourite Mitsubishi dealer - Northstar Mitsubishi - you won't be disappointed.

By John Parry  -  The Weekly Times

Within the Mitsubishi stable, the Challenger sits between the Outlander and the Pajero.

Mitsubishi has joined the crowd of medium SUVs offering two-wheel drive instead of four.

Why drive all wheels when two will do? It's a trend driving one of the fastest-growing segments of the car market.

Almost all the popular SUVs are available with two-wheel drive, saving drivers thousands of dollars compared with their all-wheel drive stable-mates.

The difference here is the Challenger started life as a serious 4WD with a low-range gearbox, a full chassis and off-road capability, unlike most of its rivals which came with single-range all-wheel drive and more car-like underpinnings.

And the Challenger 2WD is propelled by the rear axle not the front as is the norm.

HANDLING
But while eliminating the transfer case and front drive line saves $5000 and about 120kg, there is a compromise or two.

Stability is similar to the 4WD on high-grip surfaces, but this five-door wagon's high centre of gravity and relatively rigid suspension make it skittish on loose gravel and slippery surfaces, where it is heavily reliant on traction control to maintain directional stability.

Clearance is unchanged and more than enough, but don't let anyone tell you a rear-drive Challenger will go where the 4WD will go.

TOWING
It's not supposed to, but with high clearance, it will clamber around the bush and potter around the paddocks as long as conditions are dry. It also retains a 3-tonne towing capacity, the highest in its class.

ENGINE
Unlike its rivals, the Challenger is diesel only. The 2.5-litre engine is responsive and flexible, although there is no escaping its diesel origins accompanied by plenty of fan noise under load. Output is 131kW and 400Nm in the manual, with the same power but 50Nm less torque in the automatic. Fuel use is 8.2 litres/100km in the five-speed manual and 9.6 litres/100km in the five-speed automatic, a drop or two less than the 4WD models.

STYLING
Within the Mitsubishi stable, the Challenger sits between the Outlander and the Pajero. It is based on the Triton, but with a smoother-riding multi-link coil rear suspension, although it feels more rigid to drive than most of its car-like rivals.

Styling is clean and functional. It looks and feels compact, with a commanding driving position. The interior is car-like, albeit with a high floor and low-geared steering.

PRICING AND EQUIPMENT
There are two versions -- the $36,990 manual and the $39,490 automatic. Equipment includes front airbags, stability control, traction control, emergency brake assist, 16-inch alloy wheels, a steel spare, cruise control, trip computer, side-steps and a five year/130,000km warranty and roadside assistance plus a 10 year/160,000km power-train warranty.

MITSUBISHI CHALLENGER 2WD
Price: from $36,990

Warranty: 5 years/130,000kms

Engine: 2.5litre diesel

Transmission: 5-speed manual, 5-speed automatic

Output: 131kw/400Nm

Thirst: 8.2litres/100km - manual, 9.6/100km - automatic

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander debuts in Geneva - goes on sale this summer
by Bob Aldons - Northstar Mitsubishi

Mitsubishi dealers in Brisbane, like Northstar Mitsubishi are getting impatient for the new range of models due later this year and into 2014. At a recent national conference, dealers such as Northstar Mitsubishi were given a sneak peek of the new Outlander for 2013 and the new Small car - Mitsubishi Mirage.

As with every manufacturer, particularly one effected by the 2011 Earthquake and Tsunami, roll out of new product has been delayed effected by things such as electronic control modules, paint and design centres. Whilst not delayed as some others, Mitsubishi have been patient to ensure that the new models such as the Outlander revealed at the Geneva Motor Show are ready for production.

Northstar Mitsubishi are fortunate to be a well established dealer, having been at the same site since 1974. The dealership, formerly Redcliffe Mitsubishi, has a long list of customers who have been buying Mitsubishi for decades and will wait patiently for new models as they come along.

The 2013 Outlander will be launched in Europe mid - year, before going on sale in the United States, Japan and Australia later in 2012 or early 2013

Mitsubishi Outlander live in Geneva 06.03.2012

Mitsubishi has introduced the 2013 Outlander at the Geneva Motor Show.

As previewed by the PX-MiEV concept, the production model has an evolutionary design with a round front fascia, a slender grille and wraparound taillights. The crossover can also be outfitted with Super-HiD headlights that are approximately 1.4 times more powerful than conventional HID headlights.

Inside, the cabin is significantly improved with higher quality materials and soft-touch plastics. There's seating for five, but an optional 3rd row enables the model to carry seven passengers.

In Europe, the Outlander will be offered with two different engines. The 2.0-liter MIVEC petrol produces 150 PS (110 kW) and 195 Nm (144 lb-ft) of torque, while the 2.2-liter diesel develops 150 PS (110 kW) and up to 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque. Later on, the company will introduce a plug-in hybrid variant.

The 2013 Outlander will be launched in Europe this summer, before going on sale in United States and Japan.

by Bob Aldons - Northstar Motor Group

I had the pleasure to accompany my wife and 2 friends to the Rod Stewart concert at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre last night

Diesel was the support act and really got the crowd primed for Rod. And as to Mr Stewart, he was amazing. Didn't let the audience down and sang all the older songs that he's famous for. Was a bit disappointed that we didn't get any of the "crooner' songs from the Great American Songbook albums but what he produced was fantastic.

His back up musicians were amazing - the violinist was simply stunning - and not only from her looks. He artistry on the instruments was spectacular - she really enjoyed her work.

All in all, an amazing night - look forward to seeing him again somewhere around the world.

2012 will be a long year for Brisbane North Mitsubishi dealer Northstar Mitsubishi. Whislt the offers coming from the family owned business based in Redcliffe continue to be strong and often, the guys at Northstar literally can't wait for the introduction of new models in the Mitsubishi range in the late part of the year.

The all new Mitsubishi Outlander (pictured) will be joined by Mitsubishi's world small car, the Mirage with early 2013 seeing the introduction of a host of new models.

Mitsubishi to end European Colt and Outlander production before 2013

Whilst Mitsubishi has decided to end its partnership with Peugot and Citroen in Europe, we guarantee that we're still getting Outlander and the Colt Replacement Mirage here at Northstar Mitsubishi.

Mitsubishi Motor Company (MMC) announced today it will not continue production at its European subsidiary production site Netherlands Car B.V. (NedCar) for the Mitsubishi Colt and Outlander models. Production will terminate at the end of 2012.

MMC cites volatile global market conditions and determined NedCar not viable for future new model production. After discussions with NedCar, labor unions and the Dutch government, MMC could not come up with a reasonable solution to justify their continuation.

According to Reuters, the announcement was expected as demand in Europe diminishes and production output has declined to one-third of its peak capacity of 200,000. Colt and Outlander production at NedCar contributed to less than five percent of MMC's global production of 1.1 million units last year.

Despite the termination of production, MMC stated they will not shut down the plant which has 1,500 employees just yet. They will continue to, "examine measures which would enable production operation at NedCar to continue from 2013 and beyond."
MMC sales in Europe were 340,000 units in 2007-2008, but in 2011 declined to 218,000.
MMC is currently building a new plant in Thailand which is expected to see increased levels of output for China and Brazil demand.
 
Source: reuters.com

Checking a car's bodywork need only take a few minutes

Checking a car's bodywork need only take a few minutes, but it can save months or even years of future frustration.

Mitsubishi tease new global-model ahead of Geneva debut

The mystery model is the first global model that Mitsubishi has launched in "the most demanding European market" and it is set to hit the showrooms later this year.

Mitsubishi e-compact concept revealed in Geneva

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Mitsubishi e-compact Concept Global Small live in Geneva - 01.03.2011

Previews 2012 production model

Mitsubishi has taken the wraps off the e-compact concept, which previews a production model that will be unveiled later this year.
Aimed at emerging markets and developed nations, the B-segment vehicle measures 3,740mm long and 1,680mm wide. Despite the compact dimensions, Mitsubishi says the cabin can comfortably seat five adults and their luggage.
Detailed specifications haven't been announced, but the production model will be powered by 1.0- and 1.2-liter engines. Additionally, the vehicle will be equipped with brake energy regeneration and an engine start/stop system. If that isn't green enough, the e-compact platform was also designed to accommodate a full electric powertrain.
The production version of e-compact will be built in Thailand and is scheduled to be launched in 2012. If everything goes according to plan, Mitsubishi will produce 150,000 to 200,000 units annually.