The Mitsubishi Colt VI (Z30) 1.5 12V DI-D, produced between 2004 and 2008, represented a significant entry in the European subcompact hatchback market. Positioned as an economical and practical choice, this variant utilized a direct-injection diesel engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission. It formed part of the Z30 series, the sixth generation of the Colt, which was based on the shared 1HX0 platform developed in collaboration with DaimlerChrysler (later Mercedes-Benz). The DI-D model aimed to provide a balance between fuel efficiency and acceptable performance for everyday driving, appealing to buyers seeking low running costs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Colt |
| Generation | Colt VI (Z30) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 12V DI-D (95 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp, 87.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 193.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 95 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 210 Nm @ 1800 rpm (154.89 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 639.939 |
| Engine displacement | 1493 cm3 (91.11 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1085 kg (2392.02 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1570 kg (3461.26 lbs.) |
| Max load | 485 kg (1069.24 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 track | 1445 mm (56.89 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 175/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Colt VI 1.5 DI-D was the OM 639.939 engine, a 1.5-liter inline-three cylinder diesel. This engine was a product of a collaboration between Mitsubishi and DaimlerChrysler, utilizing Daimler’s common-rail direct injection technology. The engine featured a turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power output to 95 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 210 Nm (155 lb-ft) of torque at a low 1800 rpm. The direct injection system, coupled with the turbocharging, allowed for efficient combustion and a relatively flat torque curve, providing good drivability. The engine employed a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The five-speed manual transmission was chosen for its efficiency and affordability, contributing to the car’s overall low running costs. This engine code was known for its relatively robust design, though proper maintenance was crucial for longevity.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 DI-D offered a practical, if not particularly exciting, driving experience. The 95 hp output, while adequate for city driving and highway cruising, didn’t provide brisk acceleration. Zero to 60 mph took around 9.4 seconds, and top speed was limited to 112 mph. The strength of this powertrain lay in its torque delivery. The 210 Nm of torque available from 1800 rpm meant that the car felt responsive in everyday driving situations, with enough power for overtaking maneuvers. The five-speed manual transmission was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, with gear ratios optimized for fuel efficiency. Compared to the higher-powered 1.6-liter gasoline variants, the DI-D prioritized fuel economy over outright performance. It also offered a more refined driving experience than the earlier non-turbo diesel options.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 DI-D typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment, though it generally sat in the lower to mid-range of the Colt VI lineup. Standard features often included air conditioning, power steering, central locking, and an integrated audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional, if somewhat basic, dashboard layout. Optional extras could include alloy wheels, electric windows, and upgraded audio systems. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but the DI-D was often positioned as a value-oriented option, appealing to buyers prioritizing economy and practicality.
Chassis & Braking
The Colt VI utilized a relatively simple chassis design. Front suspension consisted of MacPherson strut coil springs, while the rear employed a torsion beam setup. This configuration provided a comfortable ride, though it wasn’t particularly sporty. Braking was handled by ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety. The car’s relatively light weight (around 1085 kg or 2392 lbs) helped to compensate for the modest engine output, contributing to reasonable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mitsubishi Colt VI 1.5 DI-D was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical small car. Its fuel efficiency was a major selling point, particularly in Europe where diesel fuel was often cheaper than gasoline. Compared to other small diesel hatchbacks of the time, such as the Peugeot 206 HDi and the Renault Clio dCi, the Colt offered a competitive level of equipment and a comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the engine was somewhat noisy and that the interior lacked the refinement of some of its rivals. Reliability was generally good, though regular maintenance was essential to ensure the longevity of the diesel particulate filter (DPF).
Legacy
The Mitsubishi Colt VI 1.5 DI-D remains a relatively common sight on European roads today. The OM 639.939 engine, while not without its quirks, proved to be a durable and reliable unit when properly maintained. Used examples are typically affordable, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for DPF issues and the importance of regular servicing. The Colt VI 1.5 DI-D represents a practical and economical choice in the subcompact hatchback segment, offering a blend of fuel efficiency, affordability, and reasonable reliability.
