The Mansell Collection is proud to be named the new Mitsubishi dealer for the Channel Islands, housing everything from the frugal Mirage and ASX crossover to the all-new and extremely versatile L200. You can even experience the advanced plug-in hybrid technology of the Outlander PHEV.
THE MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER PHEV
With a fuel economy figure of 148mpg and CO2 emissions of just 44g/km, the Mitsubishi Outlander is not just a mud-plugging SUV it’s a potential green poster boy. In other words, it’s a game changer.
Priced at an astonishing £28,249, the lavishly equipped Mitsubishi claims the stats of a city car 10 years from now, minus the space constraints. It comfortably sits five and boasts an impressive boot capacity, which basically means you get a whole lot of car for your money.
The Outlander PHEV is a plug-in series parallel hybrid with radically low running costs. In other words, fuel consumption is incredible! Once hooked up to the mains electricity supply, it can be charged for an ‘electric-only’ range of 32.5 miles. On longer journeys, there’s no chance of running out of juice – the petrol engine and electric motors resolve any road anxieties by working seamlessly side by side. You can even charge the Mitsubishi remotely through a free-to-download Android or iOS app.
At last, we have a hybrid eco-motor that isn’t deprived of comfort, performance or practicality. Perhaps the best thing about this astounding machine is just how ordinary it is in everyday use, which is why, if you want one, you’ll have to move quickly!
THE MITSUBISHI L200
Despite offering all the trimmings of an SUV, the Mitsubishi L200 boasts an abundance of creature comforts, but at its heart, it’s still a rugged workhorse.
With the off-road capability to potentially show up a space exploration vehicle, and a go-anywhere/carry anything approach for less than £25k, The L200 has been dubbed the car equivalent of a Swiss Army knife. The exterior boasts the sturdiness of a steel-capped boot, whilst the interior imitates the elegance of an executive vehicle.
Each of the four model’s – Double Cab Trojan, Barbarian, Warrior and Walkinshaw – boast a strong ladder chassis that allows for secure handling in all conditions, incredible towing abilities and a four star NCAP crash rating. They also claim to have one of the best power-to-weight ratios of any UK market pickup, complete with a 2.5-litre turbo diesel engine and 175bhp. Other noteworthy features include active stability and traction control with brake assist plus.
All in all, a no-frills pickup that drives like a normal car – perfectly suited to surfer dudes, family guys, empty-nesters and school run mums. It’s a working vehicle albeit a very comfortable and up-to-the-minute one, that’s a pleasure to drive.
THE MITSUBISHI MIRAGE
Mitsubishi’s new five-door supermini is both efficient and well-equipped; in fact, it’s the most aerodynamic car of its class. With a choice of 1.0-litre or 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engines, both of which emit less than 100g/km of CO2, Mitsubishi have managed to create a vehicle that’s compact, nippy and stylish all at once.
With a supermini as well thought out as this one, tackling tight country lanes, multi-storey car parks and busy town centres is less of a chore and more of ride – just turn the light, leather-clad steering wheel and you’ll be in the tightest parking spot in no time.
Despite its compact size, you can expect an impressive 235 litres of boot space, a gearshift timing indicator (guaranteed to minimise petrol pit stops), USB connection, electric door mirrors, all-round parking sensors and a height adjustable driving seat.
With its lightweight construction and compact dimensions, the Mitsubishi Mirage is not only nimble to drive; the newly designed three-cylinder engine makes it one of the most economical cars in its class.
THE MITSUBISHI ASX
Car experts and sales geeks alike are describing the Mitsubishi ASX as an active crossover – fun to drive, spacious and great value – a worthwhile alternative to mainstream rival SUVs and one that comes with a tempting list price. The ASX 4 (as you would expect is the more luxurious of the three models), although the ASX 2 -with its trendy alloy wheels, hillstart assist, handsfree and active stability – is anything but basic.
Combine this with Mitsubishi’s smooth, responsive six-speed automatic transmission, stress-free handling and impressive parking capabilities and you have a vehicle perfectly suited to a range of real world activities, including everyday expeditions, suburban school runs and off road adventures.
Frivolous technologies perfectly complement the staple strength you’d expect from a vehicle of this calliper, and with its rugged, robust appeal, there’s a definite toughness about the ASX. It’s a refreshing take on the modern family car and with a sub-£15k starting price; it’s certainly worth checking out.