Compact Mitsubishi Crossover, cX Concept, to Debut at Frankfurt

The images of Mitsubishi's cX concept leaked this week were indeed real--today, a press release joins them. The name, cX, stands for compact crossover, and it is meant for "the hustle and bustle of urban life." The front end of the cX closely resembles the Lancer sedan and larger Outlander SUV, but the rear kind of looks like, well, nothing else. The closest match to this concept's funky hatch might be Volvo's C30 hatchback.

The concept uses a 1.8-liter diesel engine with a variable turbine turbocharger for optimum boost at all engine speeds. Mated to it is Mitsubishi's new twin-clutch transmission, which they call Twin Clutch SST (Sport Shift Transmission.) It will first see production this winter in the much-ballyhooed Lancer Evolution X. No word on whether a production cX will come, but with the current popularity of small crossovers, we certainly wouldn't bet against one slotting in below the Outlander in the next few years.

The MITSUBISHI Concept-cX is a compact car that creates a new SUV/sports hatchback crossover category; a crossover that stirs a sense of adventure to "cut a swathe" through the hustle and bustle of urban life. The design gives the exterior a purposeful and functional form using a dynamic wedge shape and large tires. The front visage combines the inverted-slant nose with trapezoidal grille that defines the new Mitsubishi Motors design identity and tailors this to the car's crossover pedigree to project an appearance that is aggressive and powerful. The interior uses a modern and sporty design that engenders a sense of expectation about the car's performance and melds this with a high level of comfort. By visually accenting the strength of the underlying frame structure and through the contrasting use of soft padding, the design creates an interior space that wraps its occupants in a protective and comfortable cocoon.

The concept car uses a new high-output, high-efficiency 1.8-liter clean diesel engine, featuring a variable geometry (VG) turbocharger for optimum boost control and a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) with diesel particulate filter (DPF) in the exhaust system for compliance with Europe's Euro 5 emission standards. The power unit is mated to Mitsubishi's new Twin Clutch SST (Sport Shift Transmission) which delivers superior power transmission efficiency in a powertrain that realizes zippy performance with excellent fuel economy and low emissions.

MITSUBISHI Concept-cX employs interior trim materials made from Mitsubishi's own Green Plastic--made from plant-based resins--in a step to stop global warming and slow the depletion of oil reserves.

In its packaging MITSUBISHI Concept-cX 's 4100 mm compact body makes for easy maneuverability around town and the high driving position improves visibility and brings the easy drivability expected of a SUV. Utility is enhanced with the split tailgate already well received on the Outlander for the way it facilitates loading and unloading of luggage. In the performance department, Concept-cX also uses Mitsubishi's electronically-controlled 4WD system and large 225/45R19 tires to deliver outstanding handling performance and stability both on tarmac and off-road.