The Mitsubishi Colt VI (Z30) facelift, produced from 2008 to November 2012, represented a significant update to the sixth generation of Mitsubishi’s popular supermini. Within the Colt VI range, the 1.3 MPI (95 hp) Automatic variant occupied the entry-level position, aimed at buyers prioritizing affordability and ease of use over outright performance. This model was primarily sold in European and Asian markets, offering a practical and economical city car option. The facelift brought styling revisions and minor mechanical improvements to the existing Z30 platform, which was co-developed with DaimlerChrysler and also underpinned the Smart Forfour.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Colt |
| Generation | Colt VI (Z30, facelift 2008) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 MPI (95 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | November, 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 138 g/km |
| 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) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.1 kg/Hp, 90.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.4 kg/Nm, 119 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 | 1050 kg (2314.85 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1465 kg (3229.77 lbs.) |
| Max load | 415 kg (914.92 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1032 l (36.44 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 47 l (12.42 US gal | 10.34 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Length | 3940 mm (155.12 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 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.) |
| Front overhang | 845 mm (33.27 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 595 mm (23.43 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 154 mm (6.06 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| 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 | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 355.6 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/50 R15; 205/45 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15; 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 1.3 MPI engine, designated M 135.930, is a naturally aspirated, inline-four cylinder petrol engine. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain and multi-point fuel injection. This engine was known for its simplicity and reliability, though it wasn’t a powerhouse. The 95 horsepower output at 6000 rpm and 125 Nm (92.2 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm were modest, but sufficient for urban driving and moderate highway speeds. The engine’s design prioritized fuel efficiency over performance. Paired with this engine was a six-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, while offering convenience, wasn’t known for particularly quick shifts or sporty responsiveness. It was selected to provide a smooth and comfortable driving experience, aligning with the target demographic of this trim level.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3 MPI Automatic Colt VI offered a comfortable, if uninspiring, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 11.4 seconds, and 0-100 km/h in 12 seconds, making it noticeably slower than versions equipped with the 1.5-liter engine or a manual transmission. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for economy, meaning the engine often felt strained during overtaking maneuvers or when climbing hills. The focus was on smooth, predictable power delivery rather than spirited performance. Compared to the manual transmission variants, the automatic version sacrificed some responsiveness for ease of use. The relatively light weight of the Colt (1050 kg / 2314.85 lbs) helped mitigate the engine’s lack of outright power.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.3 MPI Automatic trim typically included basic features such as air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, and a basic audio system. Safety equipment included ABS brakes and driver/passenger airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat basic, design. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a CD player, and metallic paint. This trim level was positioned as the entry point to the Colt VI range, offering essential features at an affordable price point. Higher trim levels, such as the 1.5-liter variants, offered more luxurious appointments and additional features.
Chassis & Braking
The Colt VI utilized a McPherson strut independent suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provided a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The electric power steering offered light and easy steering, making it ideal for city driving. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering, though the car wasn’t designed for aggressive driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.3 MPI Automatic Colt VI was generally well-received as an affordable and practical city car. Critics praised its fuel economy (5.8 l/100 km combined) and ease of driving, but noted its lack of performance. Compared to the 1.5-liter variants, the 1.3 MPI offered significantly less power and acceleration. However, it was more fuel-efficient and generally cheaper to insure. The 1.3 MPI also offered a more comfortable driving experience than the diesel variants, which were often noisier and less refined. Its main competitors included the Renault Clio, Peugeot 207, and Volkswagen Polo.
Legacy
The 1.3 MPI engine and automatic transmission combination in the Mitsubishi Colt VI proved to be relatively reliable, with few major mechanical issues reported. The engine’s simplicity contributed to its longevity. On the used car market, these models are often sought after by first-time drivers or those looking for an economical and dependable city car. Maintenance costs are generally low, and parts availability is good. While not a particularly exciting vehicle, the 1.3 MPI Automatic Colt VI remains a practical and affordable option for those seeking a no-frills supermini.
