| New Concept Car | Frankfurt Motor Show | Mitsubishi Concept-cX |
Mitsubishi is looking to exploit the popular compact SUV market by offering something a little different. Sharp styling, a proven four-wheel drive pedigree and a new clean diesel engine are the ingredients that make up the new Concept-cX, set to be unveiled at the
Frankfurt Motor Show in September, and Mitsubishi hopes the crossover-type vehicle will fit neatly into its range below the
Outlander.
The most striking element of the design sketch we've received is the distinctive "Jet Fighter" grille, which also dominates the appearance of the new Lancer. Pleasing to the eye thereafter is the gentle slope towards its split rear tailgate.
Unusually in this rapidly emerging segment, the under-bonnet credentials of the Concept-cX will be of at least as much interest as any visual drama it intends to provide. The Japanese manufacturer's first attempt at a diesel engine looks promising on paper; it already meets Euro 5 emissions standards and proposes to be the first member of what Mitsubishi calls its "Clean Diesel" family of engines due for roll-out in 2009.
The unit itself displaces 1.8-litres and utilises a variable-geometry diffuser turbocharger to help to generate optimum boost for differing engine loads. A diesel particulate filter will minimise emissions. The new diesel engine will be mated with a dual-clutch gearbox similar to that used in the forthcoming Lancer Evolution, though the four-wheel drive set-up is broadly the same as the Outlander's.
The Concept-cX is relatively small at 4.1-metres long, even when compared to other compact SUVs on - or soon to be on - the market. Despite its size, it'll have a characteristically high SUV-style driving position.
Concept car touches include an interior made from plant-based 'green plastics' and large flash alloy wheels. Nevertheless, these aspects don't contrive to make it any less a serious proposition for Mitsubishi, though we wouldn't be surprised if it ended up being a slightly more car-like replacement for the small Shogun Pinin.
Richard Tanner - 1 Aug 2007