The Mitsubishi Colt VI (Z30) 1.5 DI-D, produced from May 2005 to December 2007, represented an entry-level diesel offering within the broader Colt VI range. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and economical option, this variant aimed at buyers prioritizing low running costs over outright performance. The Z30 generation Colt, built on the Mitsubishi C-platform, was primarily marketed in Europe and other international markets, serving as a subcompact hatchback competitor to vehicles like the Renault Clio, Peugeot 206, and Ford Fiesta. This specific 1.5 DI-D model was designed to appeal to urban drivers and those seeking a practical, affordable vehicle with diesel economy.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Colt |
| Generation | Colt VI (Z30) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 DI-D (68 Hp) |
| Start of production | May, 2005 |
| End of production | December, 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 160 km/h (99.42 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.8 kg/Hp, 63.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm, 148.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 68 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 45.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 1600 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 1600 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 | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1075 kg (2369.97 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1565 kg (3450.23 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 | 5 gears, manual 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 heart of the Colt VI 1.5 DI-D is the OM 639.939, a 1.5-liter inline three-cylinder diesel engine. This engine, developed in collaboration with DaimlerChrysler, utilizes a common rail direct injection system to deliver fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure. This technology, combined with a turbocharger and intercooler, allows the small displacement engine to produce a respectable 68 horsepower and 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow for improved efficiency and power output. The engine’s relatively high compression ratio of 18:1 contributes to its thermal efficiency. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The 5-speed manual transmission was the only gearbox option available with this engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 DI-D variant of the Colt VI offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to higher-powered versions. Acceleration was modest, taking approximately 14.5 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h). The engine’s strength lay in its low-end torque, making it suitable for urban driving and overtaking at lower speeds. The 5-speed manual transmission was geared for economy, with taller ratios prioritizing fuel efficiency over rapid acceleration. While not a sporty performer, the 1.5 DI-D provided adequate power for everyday driving, and its light weight contributed to reasonable handling. Compared to a hypothetical gasoline counterpart with similar power, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy and a more relaxed cruising experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 DI-D typically represented the entry-level trim in the Colt VI range. Standard equipment generally included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an ABS anti-lock braking system. Interior upholstery was typically a basic cloth material. Optional extras, depending on the market, could include air conditioning, alloy wheels, a CD player, and upgraded interior trim. The focus of this trim level was on providing a functional and affordable vehicle, with less emphasis on luxury features.
Chassis & Braking
The Colt VI 1.5 DI-D 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 reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The braking system featured ventilated discs on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. The relatively light weight of the vehicle helped to compensate for the less powerful braking setup. A stabilizer bar was fitted to the front suspension to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mitsubishi Colt VI 1.5 DI-D was generally well-received by critics as an economical and practical city car. Its fuel efficiency was a major selling point, particularly in Europe where diesel fuel was often cheaper than gasoline. However, some reviewers noted the engine’s lack of refinement and its relatively slow acceleration. Compared to other diesel variants in the Colt VI lineup, such as the 1.8 DI-D, the 1.5 DI-D offered lower running costs but significantly less performance. It competed directly with other subcompact diesel hatchbacks, offering a competitive price point and a reputation for reliability.
Legacy
The OM 639.939 engine, while not known for being a powerhouse, proved to be a relatively durable and reliable unit. Colt VI 1.5 DI-D models are now found in the used car market as affordable and fuel-efficient transportation. Common issues are typically related to wear and tear on components like the turbocharger and fuel injectors, but these are generally manageable with proper maintenance. The Colt VI 1.5 DI-D remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical and economical hatchback.
