Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Colt |
| Generation | Colt VI (Z30) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 i 16V CZ3 (109 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 109 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 72.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 145 Nm @ 4000 rpm (106.95 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 4A91 |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.8 mm (3.34 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 capacity | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 935 kg (2061.32 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1440 kg (3174.66 lbs.) |
| Max load | 505 kg (1113.33 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 155 l (5.47 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 760 l (26.84 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 47 l (12.42 US gal | 10.34 UK gal) |
| Length | 3810 mm (150 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2500 mm (98.43 in.) |
| Front track | 1450 mm (57.09 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 Steering |
| Tires size | 195/50 R15 |
The Mitsubishi Colt VI, launched in 2005, represented a significant redesign for the popular supermini. The Z30 chassis code designates this generation, which was primarily aimed at the European market. The 1.5 i 16V CZ3 variant, with its 109 horsepower engine, occupied a middle ground in the Colt VI lineup. It offered a step up in performance from the base 1.3L models while remaining more affordable and fuel-efficient than the sportier 1.5 Turbo or 1.8L options. This trim level was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a practical, reliable, and reasonably engaging driving experience.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 1.5 i 16V CZ3 Colt is the 4A91 engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to the intake ports for efficient combustion. The 16-valve DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft) configuration enhances volumetric efficiency, contributing to the engine’s respectable power output for its size. The engine’s design prioritized fuel economy and low emissions, making it suitable for European driving conditions and regulations. The 5-speed manual transmission was standard, providing a direct connection between the engine and the front wheels. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned to balance acceleration and fuel efficiency, with a relatively tall fifth gear for comfortable highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 109 horsepower and 145 Nm (107 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 1.5L engine provided adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 9.3 seconds, and the car could reach a top speed of 118 mph. While not particularly sporty, the engine felt responsive enough for overtaking maneuvers and navigating city traffic. Compared to the higher-output 1.5 Turbo, the 1.5 i 16V lacked the same level of punch, but it offered a smoother, more linear power delivery. The manual transmission allowed for precise control, and the relatively light weight of the Colt VI (around 2060 lbs) contributed to a nimble feel. The gear ratios were well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing sufficient torque in each gear for comfortable driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 i 16V CZ3 trim typically included features such as air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, and a basic audio system. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and driver and passenger airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a CD player, and metallic paint finishes. The dashboard layout was straightforward and user-friendly, prioritizing practicality over luxury. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as climate control, upgraded audio systems, and more premium interior materials.
Chassis & Braking
The Colt VI utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with a MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The electric power steering provided light and precise steering feel, making the car easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The relatively lightweight construction of the Colt VI contributed to its agile handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mitsubishi Colt VI 1.5 i 16V CZ3 was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and affordable supermini. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and nimble handling. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked the refinement and power of some of its competitors. Compared to other trims in the Colt VI lineup, the 1.5 i 16V offered a good balance between performance and economy. The 1.3L models were more affordable but lacked the same level of responsiveness, while the 1.5 Turbo and 1.8L models offered more power but came at a higher price and with increased fuel consumption. The 1.5 i 16V was often seen as the sweet spot in the range for drivers seeking a versatile and economical city car.
Legacy
The Mitsubishi Colt VI 1.5 i 16V CZ3 has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with the 4A91 engine known for its durability. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, timing belt replacements, and spark plug replacements. On the used car market, these Colts are often sought after for their affordability and practicality. While not a particularly collectible model, they remain a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable and economical supermini. The Z30 generation Colt, and specifically this 1.5L variant, represents a solid example of Mitsubishi’s commitment to building practical and well-engineered vehicles for the European market.
