The Mitsubishi Colt VI Ralliart 1.5 Turbo, produced from 2008 to 2010, represented a performance-oriented variant within the Z30 facelift series of the Colt subcompact hatchback. Positioned as the sporty top-tier trim for the three-door body style, it aimed to deliver a more engaging driving experience than the standard Colt models. This variant was primarily marketed in Europe and other international markets, offering a blend of affordability, practicality, and turbocharged performance in a small package.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Colt |
| Generation | Colt VI (Z30, facelift 2008) 3-door |
| Type (Engine) | Ralliart 1.5 Turbo (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 161 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.6 kg/Hp, 132.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 185 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 102.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 210 Nm @ 3500 rpm (154.89 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 4G15 |
| Engine displacement | 1468 cm3 (89.58 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75.5 mm (2.97 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1135 kg (2502.25 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1520 kg (3351.03 lbs.) |
| Max load | 385 kg (848.78 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 | Front wheel drive |
| 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, 381 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/45 R 16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5 J x 16 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2008 facelift of the Mitsubishi Colt VI brought with it the Ralliart 1.5 Turbo variant, a three-door hatchback designed to appeal to drivers seeking a more spirited driving experience. Built on the 1HX0 platform (also known as the A3 platform shared with other Mitsubishi and DaimlerChrysler vehicles), the Ralliart distinguished itself through its turbocharged engine, sport-tuned suspension, and distinctive styling cues. It occupied the top performance slot in the Colt lineup, above the standard 1.3 and 1.5 liter naturally aspirated models. Production ran from 2008 until 2010, making it a relatively short-lived but memorable iteration of the Colt.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Colt Ralliart 1.5 Turbo is the 4G15 engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler. This engine produced 150 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 210 Nm (154.89 lb-ft) of torque at 3500 rpm. The engine utilized multi-point fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The turbocharger, a key component of the Ralliart’s performance, provided a significant boost in power output compared to the naturally aspirated versions of the 1.5-liter engine. The engine featured a compression ratio of 9:1. The Ralliart was exclusively offered with a five-speed manual transmission, designed to handle the increased power and torque. This transmission featured relatively short gear ratios, optimized for acceleration and responsiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The Colt Ralliart 1.5 Turbo offered a noticeably more engaging driving experience than its naturally aspirated siblings. The turbocharger provided a surge of power in the mid-range, making overtaking and accelerating from highway speeds considerably easier. While not a particularly powerful car by modern standards, the Ralliart’s light weight (1135 kg / 2502.25 lbs) contributed to a respectable 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 7.4 seconds. The five-speed manual transmission allowed for precise control over gear selection, and the short ratios encouraged spirited driving. The suspension was tuned for a firmer ride, providing improved handling and cornering stability, although this came at the expense of some ride comfort. Compared to the standard Colt, the Ralliart felt more planted and responsive, making it a more enjoyable car to drive on winding roads.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Ralliart trim level included several features designed to enhance both the sporty appearance and driving experience. Standard equipment typically included alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and upgraded interior trim. Exterior styling cues included a unique front bumper with integrated fog lights, side skirts, and a rear spoiler. Optional extras could include air conditioning, a CD player with MP3 compatibility, and electric windows. The interior generally featured a dark color scheme with sporty accents. While not a luxury vehicle, the Ralliart offered a reasonably well-equipped interior for its price point.
Chassis & Braking
The Colt Ralliart utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. The front suspension was specifically tuned with stiffer springs and dampers to improve handling. The braking system consisted of ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The steering was a rack and pinion system with electric power assistance. The tires were typically 205/45 R16, providing a good balance of grip and ride comfort. The relatively lightweight chassis contributed to the car’s nimble handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mitsubishi Colt Ralliart 1.5 Turbo was generally well-received by automotive critics as an affordable and fun-to-drive subcompact. It was praised for its turbocharged engine, responsive handling, and sporty styling. However, some critics noted that the interior was somewhat basic and that the ride could be firm on rough roads. Compared to other turbocharged hot hatches of the time, such as the Volkswagen Polo GTI or the Renault Clio Renaultsport, the Colt Ralliart offered a more affordable entry point, but with slightly less refinement and overall performance. Fuel economy was respectable for a turbocharged vehicle, averaging around 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg). Reliability was generally good, although turbocharger maintenance should be considered when purchasing a used example.
Legacy
The Mitsubishi Colt Ralliart 1.5 Turbo remains a popular choice among enthusiasts seeking an affordable and engaging small car. Its turbocharged engine and sporty handling make it a fun car to drive, and its relatively simple mechanicals make it relatively easy to maintain. On the used car market, well-maintained examples command a reasonable price. The 4G15 engine, while not known for being exceptionally durable under extreme tuning, is generally reliable in stock form. The Colt Ralliart represents a unique offering in the subcompact segment, providing a blend of practicality, affordability, and performance that is still appreciated today.
