Mitsubishi is planning to bring forward the introduction of its new compact SUV, based on the Concept cX from the 2007 Frankfurt motor show.
The new car, which will provide Mitsubishi with a rival for Nissan’s Qashqai, was originally due in May next year, but improving sales of compact SUVs in Japan have forced the firm onto a more aggressive schedule.
The new SUV will now be launched in Japan next February; Europe will follow soon after.
The production version of the cX (the name will change) will use the Lancer platform and come with petrol and diesel options, from 1.8 to 2.2 litres. An Evo-style SST dual-clutch ’box and four-wheel drive will also be available.
Mitsubishi is not planning a hybrid cX, but it will unveil a plug-in hybrid system in a fresh SUV concept at October’s Tokyo show. The technology is earmarked for the next Outlander.
Thanks to: Autocar
