Ninety years after starting car production (with the 1917 Model-A), Mitsubishi has embarked upon its most ambitious automotive project ever through the launch of its first global platform.
Known as “Project Global”, and already successfully previewed with the second generation Outlander, it will be showcased at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit by its highest volume variant: the all-new 4-door Lancer sports sedan.
Dynamic
Designed at Mitsubishi Motors studios in Europe and Japan, the Lancer sports sedan shares its stunning design language with the much-acclaimed Mitsubishi Design Europe-penned 2005 Concept-X and Concept-Sportback show cars.
Its low stance, long hood / short deck proportions, wide track, trademark “shark nose” and distinctively deep set “eyes”, all bring a new meaning to the concept of sports sedans – very much in line with both Mitsubishi's “Japanese Modern” design philosophy and its peerless credentials within 45 years of racing.
To be launched progressively in world markets from Spring 2007 (North America), the Lancer sports sedan will form a full family of cars with dynamic qualities to match their looks all across the range: from entry models (1.5 litre 110 ps engine in Europe) right up to the all-new Lancer Evolution supercar, including diesel power (Europe), a high performance 2.0 litre turbo gasoline version and other variants.
Global
Representing a multi-million dollar investment, “Project Global” will support the launch of several new Mitsubishi vehicles over the next few years, designed from the outset for world markets, i.e.: with the built-in flexibility required to accommodate regional needs and regulations as well as market trends and new customer demands in markets as diverse as Japan, North America, Russia, Asia-Pacific and Europe.
As a further evidence of its adaptability, models from business partners DaimlerChrysler A.G. – with which it was co-developed – and P.S.A. Peugeot Citroen* are / will also be based on this global platform.
Along those lines, “Project Global” will also enable the introduction of the “World Engine” family of powerplants. Co-engineered with DaimlerChrysler and Hyundai Motor Company, the engines to be used in Mitsubishi vehicles have been modified by the company for individual market and model use.
