-Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) today
showcased its commitment to China's sports-utility vehicle market at Auto
Shanghai 2003 with three models, one concept car, and a replica of the
Pajero Evolution, which won the most recent Dakar Rally.
Outlander
Outlander is the next upcoming vehicle from MMC that will be manufactured
locally under the Mitsubishi brand from early 2004 on. Combining the off-road
capabilities of an SUV with the urban style and comfort of a modern sedan,
the Outlander is equally at home cruising down city streets or roaming
around the countryside.
A 2.4-litre 16-valve ECI-MULTI engine easily responds to variable power
demands, generating peak torque early in the rev range and maintaining
it for most of the engine's useable power band. An INVECS-II 4-speed automatic
transmission with Sports Mode improves on the all-round convenience and
fun by allowing drivers to enjoy spirited hands-on shifting-only when
they want. A 4WD with viscous-coupling center differential like the one
featured on the great Lancer Evolutions improves inclement weather driving
security, traction, and handling dynamics.
Pajero Sport
The Pajero Sport is designed to appeal to a younger segment of users who
are attracted to powerful styling and performance, but are discouraged
by the exclusive nature of most traditional SUVs. Under the hood lies
a 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine that promises to make weekend drives a sheer
joy without incurring excessive fuel economy penalties.
In March, MMC successfully launched the Pajero Sport in the Chinese market
targeting annual sales of 10,000 units. Assembled at Beijing Jeep Corporation,
Ltd., the Pajero Sport is the first Mitsubishi-badged vehicle to be locally
produced in China.
Pajero
Pajero remains Mitsubishi Motors' signature SUV model. Showcasing MMC's
dedication to styling, advanced technology, and luxury in an all-terrain
vehicle, Pajero has always reserved its place atop Mitsubishi's world
famous lineup of all-terrain SUV ever since its 1982 debut. Over 3,500
Pajero vehicles have been sold from December to March. The popularity
of Pajero in China has prompted MMC to raise its sales target to 7,000
units for fiscal 2003.
S.U.P. (Sports Utility Pack) Cabriolet
This concept car serves as another testament to MMC's tradition of pushing
the limits. Its unconventional exterior and spirited interior design makes
an unmistakable lifestyle statement of young, technology-smart urbanites.
Addressing local needs
Mitsubishi Outlander, Pajero Sport and Pajero on display collectively
make a strong statement on MMC's pledge to the SUV market in China. Local
production of the Pajero Sport and the Outlander not only ensures that
MMC precisely meets local needs, but also underlines the company's commitment
to the local economy and motorization in China. In 2002, more than 70,000
MMC derived vehicles were sold in China. MMC is forecasting this figure
to rise to more than 300,000 units by 2007.
