New Mitsubishi Colt debuts in Paris

Mitsubishi has given its compact Colt a nip and tuck, grafting the new 'Jet Fighter' family nose onto the front, improving quality and refinement and changing the line-up offered to customers.

What's all the fuss about?

This is much more than a mere facelift, which in itself has been remarkably effective. All panels forward of the A-pillar are new and the new car moves away from the one-box shape of its predecessor, while adopting the distinctive family grille design. Mitsubishi has also ensured that the three- and five-door models are noticeably different in style with new rear lights and detailing. Mitsubishi has ditched the diesel engine option and plans to introduce new Clear Tec versions utilising a stop-start system and regenerative braking to cut CO₂ emissions by about 10%.

Anything that stands out?

The new model will become available in Ralliart guise, in both three- and five-door body styles. Based on the previous CZT, this baby hot hatch retains the feisty 150bhp turbocharged 1.5-litre engine and is differentiated from the rest of the range by a modest body kit and more aggressive front grille design.

When can I buy one?

As the Colt is made in The Netherlands, it won't be long coming. Mitsubishi reckons it will go on sale in the UK and Ireland before the end of the year, though prices have not yet been announced. The Ralliart model will arrive later with the Clear Tec variants due by summer 2009.

Shane O' Donoghue