The Mitsubishi Colt VI (Z30) 1.3 i 16V Automatic, produced between 2004 and 2008, represented an entry-level offering within the sixth generation of Mitsubishi’s Colt hatchback. Positioned as a practical and affordable city car, this variant aimed to provide comfortable transportation with the convenience of an automatic transmission. It was primarily marketed in Europe and other international markets, serving as a competitor to vehicles like the Renault Clio, Peugeot 206, and Ford Fiesta. The Z30 Colt was built on the shared platform with the Smart Forfour and Renault Modus, showcasing Mitsubishi’s collaborative efforts in vehicle development during this period.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Colt |
| Generation | Colt VI (Z30) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 i 16V (95 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp, 97.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.8 kg/Nm, 128.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 95 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 125 Nm @ 4000 rpm (92.2 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 135.930 |
| Engine displacement | 1332 cm3 (81.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.4 mm (2.97 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 970 kg (2138.48 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1460 kg (3218.75 lbs.) |
| Max load | 490 kg (1080.27 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 47 l (12.42 US gal | 10.34 UK gal) |
| Length | 3870 mm (152.36 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2500 mm (98.43 in.) |
| Front track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1445 mm (56.89 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 175/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 1.3-liter, 16-valve engine (engine code M 135.930) powering the Colt VI 1.3 i Automatic is a naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. It utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports just before the intake valves. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, optimizing valve timing for improved performance and efficiency. The compression ratio of 10.5:1 contributes to a reasonable balance between power and fuel economy. This engine wasn’t known for being a powerhouse, but it was designed for reliability and low running costs. The automatic transmission is a conventional 6-speed unit, chosen for its ease of use and suitability for urban driving conditions. It’s important to note that this transmission wasn’t particularly known for its sportiness or quick shifts, prioritizing smooth operation over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 95 horsepower and 125 Nm (92.2 lb-ft) of torque produced by this engine and automatic transmission combination resulted in a 0-60 mph time of around 11.4 seconds and a top speed of 180 km/h (112 mph). In real-world driving, the 1.3 i Automatic felt adequate for city commuting and shorter journeys. However, acceleration was noticeably slower when fully loaded or attempting to overtake on highways. The automatic transmission, while convenient, contributed to a less engaging driving experience compared to the available manual transmission options. Gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency rather than performance, meaning the engine often felt strained during hard acceleration. Compared to the more powerful 1.5-liter variants, the 1.3 i Automatic offered significantly less performance, but it did provide better fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.3 i Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, and a basic audio system. Safety features included ABS brakes and driver/passenger airbags. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with a functional but basic dashboard layout. Optional extras available for this trim level often included alloy wheels, a CD player, and upgraded interior trim materials. The overall focus was on providing a practical and affordable package, rather than luxurious appointments.
Chassis & Braking
The Colt VI utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with a MacPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, suitable for everyday driving. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The electric power steering provided light and easy steering, making it ideal for maneuvering in tight urban spaces. Stabilizer bars were present, but relatively thin, contributing to a slight degree of body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mitsubishi Colt VI 1.3 i Automatic was generally well-received as a practical and economical city car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and ease of use, but noted its lack of performance and somewhat unrefined driving experience. Compared to other trims in the Colt lineup, such as the 1.5-liter variants, the 1.3 i Automatic offered lower running costs but significantly less power. Its reliability was generally considered good, although the automatic transmission could be prone to issues if not properly maintained. Fuel economy figures of around 42 US mpg combined were competitive for its class.
Legacy
The Mitsubishi Colt VI 1.3 i Automatic remains a relatively common sight on used car markets today. The M 135.930 engine is known for its durability, provided it has been regularly serviced. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for issues with the automatic transmission, particularly if it hasn’t been maintained according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. While not a particularly exciting vehicle, the Colt VI 1.3 i Automatic offers a reliable and affordable option for those seeking a practical city car. Its simplicity and relatively low maintenance costs continue to make it an appealing choice for budget-conscious buyers.
