The Mitsubishi Colt IV, specifically the 1.6 GLXi 16V (CA4A) variant with an automatic transmission, was produced between 1992 and 1996. This model represented a significant step forward for Mitsubishi’s compact hatchback line, offering a blend of practicality, affordability, and a surprisingly sporty driving experience for its class. Positioned as a mid-range trim level within the Colt IV lineup, the 1.6 GLXi 16V Automatic aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a comfortable and well-equipped vehicle without the higher price tag of the top-spec models. It was primarily sold in European and Asian markets, where compact hatchbacks were – and continue to be – a dominant force in the automotive landscape.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Colt |
| Generation | Colt IV (CAO) |
| Type | 1.6 GLXi 16V (CA4A) (113 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1992 |
| End of production | 1996 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp, 117.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm, 159.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 113 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 153 Nm @ 5000 rpm (112.85 lb.-ft. @ 5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 4G92 |
| 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 | SOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 959 kg (2114.23 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Max load | 541 kg (1192.7 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 240 l (8.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 574 l (20.27 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 3955 mm (155.71 in.) |
| Width | 1690 mm (66.54 in.) |
| Height | 1365 mm (53.74 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2440 mm (96.06 in.) |
| Front track | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1460 mm (57.48 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 | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Several levers and rods |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| 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
At the heart of the 1.6 GLXi 16V Automatic lies Mitsubishi’s 4G92 engine, a 1.6-liter (1597cc) inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively high output for its displacement. The 4G92 utilized multi-port fuel injection, a significant advancement over earlier carburetor-equipped engines, improving fuel efficiency and throttle response. The engine produced 113 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 153 Nm (113 lb-ft) of torque at 5000 rpm. The automatic transmission was a conventional four-speed unit, chosen for its ease of use and comfort, appealing to a broader range of drivers. While not known for its lightning-fast shifts, it was a reliable unit that paired well with the engine’s torque curve.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 GLXi 16V Automatic offered a comfortable and predictable driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 9.2 seconds, and it could reach a top speed of around 118 mph. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic suffered a slight performance penalty due to the inherent losses in the torque converter. However, the automatic provided smoother acceleration and eliminated the need for constant gear changes, making it ideal for city driving and long journeys. Compared to the higher-output 1.8-liter engine available in some Colt IV models, the 1.6 felt less eager to rev, but it offered a more balanced combination of performance and fuel economy. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for everyday usability rather than outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GLXi trim level offered a good level of standard equipment. Typically, this included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an upgraded interior trim compared to the base models. The interior featured cloth upholstery, and the dashboard layout was functional and straightforward. Optional extras could include air conditioning, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The GLXi also often featured body-colored bumpers and door handles, adding a touch of visual appeal.
Chassis & Braking
The Colt IV utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with a relatively simple suspension setup. The front suspension consisted of wishbone arms, while the rear employed a multi-link system. This setup provided a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was included as standard equipment, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The steering was rack and pinion, providing precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mitsubishi Colt IV 1.6 GLXi 16V Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and affordable hatchback. It was praised for its comfortable ride, decent performance, and good fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish at times, and the interior, while functional, lacked the sophistication of some of its rivals. Compared to other trims in the Colt IV lineup, the 1.6 GLXi Automatic offered a good compromise between performance and price. The 1.8-liter models provided more power but came at a higher cost, while the lower-displacement engines were more economical but lacked the same level of refinement.
Legacy
The Mitsubishi Colt IV 1.6 GLXi 16V Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with many examples still on the road today. The 4G92 engine is known for its durability, and the automatic transmission, while not particularly advanced, is generally robust. In the used car market, these Colts are often sought after as affordable and dependable transportation. While not a collector’s item, they represent a solid and well-built example of a 1990s compact hatchback. Parts availability is generally good, making maintenance and repairs relatively straightforward. The Colt IV, in this configuration, remains a testament to Mitsubishi’s ability to produce practical and reliable vehicles that appeal to a wide range of buyers.
