Mitsubishi Concept G4 leaves us feeling blue

Sat, 20 Apr 2013

To say we were unimpressed by the 2014 Mitsubishi Mirage that debuted in New York earlier this year would be one heck of an understatement. So pardon us for not oohing and aahing over the Concept G4 that we're seeing for the first time here in Shanghai. It is, basically, a Mirage sedan. Try to contain your excitement.

Mitsubishi states that it intends to roll out the production version of the G4 Concept globally, powered by a 1.2-liter MIVEC engine mated to a continuously variable transmission that should at least be good for some substantial fuel economy gains. The Mirage, after all, is rated at 37/44 miles per gallon city/highway. We're also told that the car will be very lightweight, and that this should aid in making this thing not drive like a total dud.

We'll wait and see how the relatively sharp lines of the concept transfer to production form, but given that we already know what the Mirage looks like, we have a pretty good feeling that we'll be just as underwhelmed the second time around. Have a look below for the press blast.

MITSUBISHI CONCEPT G4 COMPACT SEDAN CONCEPT CAR TO BE UNVEILED AT 34TH BANGKOK INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW

Mitsubishi Motors (Thailand) Co., Ltd. (MMTh), Mitsubishi Motors Corporation's (MMC) exclusive producer and distributor in Thailand, will present the global debut of the MITSUBISHI Concept G41 concept model for a new-generation compact sedan its world debut at the 34th Bangkok International Motor Show2 from March 25 through April 7.

In a lineup of 23 concept and Thai-built models on the MMTh booth, the MITSUBISHI Concept G4 will be joined by the MITSUBISHI Concept GR-HEV3 concept, an FR4 sport utility truck powered by a diesel-hybrid drivetrain. Thailand-built production models on display will include the Mirage global compact car, which has been a hot seller in Thailand, the Lancer EX mid-size sedan, Triton pickup and Pajero Sport SUV.

MITSUBISHI Concept G4

The MITSUBISHI Concept G4 is a concept model for a new compact sedan which MMC plans to roll out globally. The MITSUBISHI Concept G4 uses a high-clarity brilliant-cut diamond motif in the design of the front grill, headlamps and rear combination lamps to create a frontal visage with a commanding presence and a tail end which leaves a sharp impression as it drives off into the distance.

The MITSUBISHI Concept G4 carries next-generation compact sedan styling featuring a short nose which delivers an outstanding forward field of view and superior maneuverability, graceful and flowing side proportions which balances interior space among the most generous in its class with very sleek aerodynamics, and a dynamic character line which kicks up towards the rear.

The MITSUBISHI Concept G4 achieves fuel efficiency that is among the best in its class as its RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body - the lightest in its class due to the extensive use of high-tensile steel - is powered by a lightweight and compact 1.2-liter MIVEC engine mated to a CVT with sub-geartrain in addition to uncompromising weight reduction throughout.

The MITSUBISHI Concept G4 delivers driving pleasure thanks to the agile and pleasing driving dynamics stemming from its lighter weight as well as its reassuring handling/stability and comfortable ride. Passenger comfort is enhanced by the high hip point and large door openings which facilitate entry and exit as well as by its generous rear seat leg space.

By Steven J. Ewing