Mitsubishi Motors Introduces Grandis

Today, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) introduces Grandis on the Japanese market, its all new full-size MPV.

Wearing the new Mitsubishi Motors visual identity created by Olivier Boulay and his team of designers (split grille, dihedral central element sporting a large size Three-Diamond logo and extended through a spine onto the hood), Grandis will offer a very sleek expression of the MPV concept.

Lower, sportier, edgier than its competitors, the 4755 mm long / 1655 mm low, Grandis will be in Europe the fifth product of the new Mitsubishi Motors generation, after Outlander, Lancer, Lancer Station Wagon, Lancer Evolution VIII, and before NCC.

Like them, it will draw heavily on its design, dynamics and fine Japanese appointments to attract European customers, while remaining faithful to MMC tradition of quality and reliability.

Like them as well, it will not be a direct replacement for a current offering – in this case, Space Wagon – as its size, styling, performance and positioning will be different.

Offered to European customers in two configurations (6 or 7 seater), Grandis is built off a specific platform, featuring a 4-wheel independent suspension tuned for sharp and safe handling.

Engines available to European customers will include an all new 2.4 DOHC gas unit, fitted with Mitsubishi Motors "MIVEC" electronic variable valve timing system. Due to debut with Outlander this fall, this engine will develop around 160 hp*. A Diesel powerplant is scheduled as well.

Commenting on this unveiling, Stefan Jacoby – President & CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Europe B.V. said: " Grandis will demonstrate that MPVs do not need to be dull. Like NCC at the other end of our product spectrum, it will enter a mainstream segment with non-mainstream arguments. As such, it will be a car of choice, instead of a purely rational item on a shopping list".

The new Mitsubishi Grandis will be introduced in Europe at the occasion of the Frankfurt Auto Show, on September 9th, 2003, with sales due to start during the first half of next year.

* Final power output, to be confirmed at the time of launch.