The Mitsubishi Colt V (CJO) 1600 GLX, specifically the CJ 4A variant with a 90 horsepower engine and automatic transmission, was a popular subcompact hatchback produced between 1996 and 2001. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Colt V lineup, it aimed to provide a balance of affordability, practicality, and convenience for buyers seeking an easy-to-drive city car. The CJO generation represented Mitsubishi’s fifth iteration of the Colt, and was primarily sold in European and Asian markets, offering a more refined and spacious package compared to its predecessors. This particular 1.6L automatic configuration was designed to appeal to drivers prioritizing comfort and ease of use over outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Colt |
| Generation | Colt V (CJO) |
| Type | 1600 GLX (CJ 4A) (90 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1996 |
| End of production | 2001 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.8 l/100 km (21.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 56.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 137 Nm @ 4000 rpm (101.05 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1597 cm3 (97.45 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 77.5 mm (3.05 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1015 kg (2237.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1480 kg (3262.84 lbs.) |
| Max load | 465 kg (1025.15 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 240 l (8.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 830 l (29.31 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 3900 mm (153.54 in.) |
| Width | 1680 mm (66.14 in.) |
| Height | 1365 mm (53.74 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2415 mm (95.08 in.) |
| Front track | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 175/70 R13 |
| Wheel rims size | 13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Colt 1600 GLX was the 4G15 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilized a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, and a multi-point fuel injection system. The 4G15 engine, while not known for its high performance, was praised for its reliability and relatively smooth operation. The CJ 4A designation indicates the pairing with a four-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, while providing convenience, was a traditional hydraulic automatic, lacking the efficiency and responsiveness of more modern electronically controlled units. The engine produced 90 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 137 Nm (101 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine code, 4G15, is crucial for identifying specific parts and service information.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6L engine and four-speed automatic combination resulted in a driving experience geared towards practicality rather than excitement. Acceleration was modest, taking around 12.3 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h). The automatic transmission, while smooth, had relatively long gear ratios, prioritizing fuel economy over quick acceleration. Compared to the five-speed manual version of the same engine, the automatic suffered a noticeable performance deficit. The automatic also lacked the engine braking capabilities of a manual transmission, requiring more reliance on the brakes during descents. However, the automatic transmission made the Colt V exceptionally easy to drive in urban environments, reducing driver fatigue during stop-and-go traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1600 GLX trim level offered a reasonable level of equipment for its price point. Standard features typically included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an AM/FM radio. Interior upholstery was usually cloth, with a relatively simple dashboard layout. Optional extras could include air conditioning, alloy wheels, and a sunroof. The GLX trim sat above the base model and below any potential sportier or more luxurious variants, offering a good balance of features and affordability. The interior plastics were durable but not particularly luxurious, reflecting the car’s budget-friendly positioning.
Chassis & Braking
The Colt V utilized a relatively simple chassis design, featuring coil springs and a torsion beam rear suspension. Front brakes were discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in this class of vehicle. The suspension was tuned for comfort, providing a reasonably smooth ride on most road surfaces. The steering was hydraulic power-assisted, making it light and easy to maneuver. Stabilizer bars were present, contributing to reduced body roll during cornering, though the car was not designed for aggressive driving. The 175/70 R13 tires were standard, offering a good compromise between comfort and grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mitsubishi Colt V 1600 GLX Automatic was generally well-received as a practical and affordable city car. Critics praised its spacious interior, ease of driving, and reasonable fuel economy. However, the automatic transmission was often criticized for its lack of responsiveness and impact on fuel consumption compared to the manual version. Compared to rivals like the Peugeot 206, Renault Clio, and Volkswagen Polo, the Colt V offered a competitive package, particularly in terms of interior space and reliability. Fuel economy figures were around 10.8 l/100km urban and 6.8 l/100km extra urban.
Legacy
The Mitsubishi Colt V 1600 GLX Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with many examples still on the road today. The 4G15 engine is known for its durability, and the automatic transmission, while not particularly sophisticated, is generally robust. However, age-related issues such as corrosion and wear and tear on suspension components are common. In the used car market, these Colts are typically affordable and represent a good value for buyers seeking a simple, reliable, and economical hatchback. Parts availability is generally good, though some specific trim pieces may be difficult to find. The Colt V, and particularly this 1.6L automatic variant, remains a popular choice for first-time car owners and those seeking a dependable and inexpensive mode of transportation.
