Mitsubishi Colt 1.0 Turbo: Renault Clio in Japan cuts the test

Last but not least, the new boss of the Renault Group, Luca de Meo, may have finally committed to replacing the popular Renault models with Mitsubishi in Europe.

Apart from the front grill and the back lettering, nothing has changed. Even the so-called “MySense” driving modes are still on the Colt, all Renault-speak. Anyone who deals with this issue with even a little car enthusiasm will also realize that the average Mitsubishi buyer is unlikely to be interested in where their car comes from. It’s more like what it can do.

So let’s get to the hard truth: Colt sits sensibly, the distance from the driver’s seat to the pedals and the steering wheel is well matched, and the length of the leg rest is about the same. As is typical of small cars, things settle quickly in the back, but if you complain, you can also opt for the bigger ASX.

infotainment is also generally positive. The resolution and color display of the central 9-inch screen are considered good, and those of the digital instrument cluster are even considered very good.

The system boots up quickly and connects wirelessly to a smartphone via CarPlay in about 10 seconds. The gear knob of the six-speed gearbox, which is slightly higher, sits next to the driver. Small things that are important in everyday life.

Anyone who carries the key card, which is also typical of Renault, and presses the start button brings the one-liter turbo gasoline engine with 91 hp to life. 160 Newton meters and 12.1 seconds to 100 km/h do not blow anyone away – but on the Colt, which is very light at 1145 kg, you feel the right engine and, thanks to the sixth gear on the road (3000 rpm at 130). km/h), you don’t feel too stressed.

The steering reacts well, rather than feeling, but the stopping values ​​are more stable, remaining for a good 35 meters whether hot or cold. Considering the low weight and low performance, 6.5 liters of consumption is an average value. If that bothers you, you can also buy the Colt as a full hybrid for 5,000 euros more.

If you generously equip the Colt as a test car, this price advantage disappears. The test car in the top “top” trim with ACC, blind spot warning, auto-dimming interior mirror and 360-degree cameras costs 23,990 euros.

If you’re satisfied with a little luxury in the Colt and choose the “Plus”, you’ll also have heated seats and a steering wheel, all-round parking sensors, cruise control, automatic climate control and a reversing camera. And you pay just 20,990 euros, including the usual five-year Mitsubishi manufacturer’s warranty. In fact the most interesting program.