Still watching the ‘i’

MITSUBISHI’S innovative ‘i’ sub-B light-car is on track for an Australian launch within the next 12 to 18 months.

"We’ve been pursuing that and still are," Mitsubishi Australia CEO Rob McEniry said.

"In terms of appeal and its different styling, as well as its attraction to a certain customer base, it’s a little bit like the VW Beetle." The futuristic one-box Mitsubishi city car shares at least some of its rear-engine and rear-wheel drive chassis components with the still-secret, next-generation Smart ForTwo due to be unveiled in Europe soon.

Mr McEniry said he was studying the costs involved with importing the car as well as engine options.

There are two three-cylinder engines available on the ‘i’ car – a 600cc turbo and a 1.0-litre normally aspirated. The latter is in the process of being developed for the English market.

"We see its role as not only for fuel economy, but also to attract a different buyer category to the brand," Mr McEniry said.

"I think it’s got some great opportunities in key markets in Melbourne and Sydney in particular as a fun city car.

"(But) it will not necessarily slot underneath the Colt in price."