The Mitsubishi Colt VI (Z30) facelift, specifically the 3-door 1.3 MPI variant producing 95 horsepower, was a key model in Mitsubishi’s European lineup from 2008 until its discontinuation in November 2012. Positioned as an entry-level offering, this Colt aimed to provide affordable and practical transportation, particularly appealing to younger drivers and those seeking a compact city car. It was built on the 1HX0 platform, shared with other vehicles like the Smart Forfour and Renault Modus, reflecting a collaborative engineering approach. This version represented a mid-cycle refresh of the Z30 series, bringing styling updates and minor mechanical revisions to an already popular supermini.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Colt |
| Generation | Colt VI (Z30, facelift 2008) 3-door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 MPI (95 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | November, 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 143 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg, 36.7 UK mpg, 13 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp, 93.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.1 kg/Nm, 123.2 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 | 1015 kg (2237.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1430 kg (3152.61 lbs.) |
| Max load | 415 kg (914.92 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 900 l (31.78 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%) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Length | 3880 mm (152.76 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1520 mm (59.84 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 | 535 mm (21.06 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 | 5 gears, manual 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 heart of this Colt variant is the 1.3-liter (1332cc) inline-four cylinder engine, designated M 135.930. This engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports, and features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain for improved breathing and efficiency. The engine produces 95 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 125 Nm (92.2 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s 10.5:1 compression ratio contributes to its relatively efficient operation. The engine is transversely mounted, driving the front wheels. The transmission is a five-speed manual gearbox, chosen for its simplicity and affordability in this entry-level trim. While an automatic transmission was offered on other Colt variants, it wasn’t paired with the 1.3 MPI engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3 MPI engine, coupled with the five-speed manual transmission, provides adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes around 10.5 seconds, and top speed is approximately 112 mph. The engine feels best suited to urban driving and slower-speed roads, where its torque is sufficient for everyday maneuvers. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy rather than outright speed. Compared to the more powerful 1.5-liter engine available in other Colt models, the 1.3 MPI feels noticeably less responsive, particularly when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. However, the lighter weight of this configuration does contribute to slightly better handling and fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3-door 1.3 MPI Colt was typically offered in a base trim level, focusing on essential features. 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. Air conditioning, alloy wheels, and a CD player were often available as optional extras. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over luxury. Higher trim levels of the Colt VI, such as the CZ2 or CZ3, offered more premium features like climate control, upgraded audio systems, and more sophisticated interior trim.
Chassis & Braking
The Colt VI utilizes a McPherson strut independent suspension setup at the front, providing a comfortable ride and reasonable handling. The rear suspension employs a torsion beam, a cost-effective solution that offers adequate stability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. The ABS system enhances braking performance and safety, particularly on slippery surfaces. The relatively lightweight nature of the 1.3 MPI variant contributes to its nimble handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mitsubishi Colt VI 1.3 MPI was generally well-received as an affordable and practical city car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and ease of driving, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to rivals like the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, and Renault Clio, the Colt offered a competitive price point and a decent level of equipment for the money. However, some reviewers found the interior materials to be somewhat basic and the engine to be underpowered. Fuel economy figures of around 39.2 US mpg combined were competitive for its class.
Legacy
The Mitsubishi Colt VI 1.3 MPI, while not a performance icon, proved to be a reliable and economical choice for many drivers. The 1.3-liter engine is known for its durability, and with regular maintenance, these engines can continue to provide years of service. In the used car market, these Colts are often sought after as affordable and dependable transportation. While not particularly collectible, well-maintained examples hold their value reasonably well, appealing to buyers looking for a budget-friendly and practical supermini.
