Motor

Mitsubishi recognises Lanka as one of the most important markets - Ueki San

Mirage launched:

M F Jabir

Mitsubishi recognises Sri Lanka as one of the most important markets and would contribute their time and energy to the development of the automobile industry in Sri Lanka, said Masahiko Ueki San, Executive Officer, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation Japan at the Mitsubishi Mirage launching ceremony held by United Motors Lanka PLC (UML) in Colombo on Wednesday.

"I am delighted to report the demand for Mirage has exceeded our expectations after its introduction in Thailand, Japan and other Asian countries such as Indonesia and Philippines. It will be successfully launched in Europe, Australia ,USA and other regions keeping its global car identy. Our new manufacturing plant in Thailand currently operates in full capacity of 150,000 units to supply the new Mirage to those customers who are waiting for the delivery.

We are planning to distribute it in over 150 countries including Sri Lanka. The addition of new Mirage in Mitsubishi Motors line up came in an much opportune time as rapid growth in small car is projected in mature and emerging markets. New mirage will truely meet your expectations as a Eco car," Ueki San added.

United Motors Lanka PLC (UML) launched the Mitsubishi Mirage, a stylish five-door hatchback, aimed primarily to cater to the present times of increased demand by local motor vehicle owners, for superior fuel efficiency and Eco-friendliness.

The Mirage, a key car in Mitsubishi Motor Corporation's plans to focus on global models for Asian markets will be available in 9 colours; Lemonade Yellow Metallic, Pop Green Metallic, Eisen Grey Mica, Medium Blue Mica, Black Mica, Red Metallic, Cool Silver Metallic, White Pearl and White Solid. The Mirage will be available in both Manual and automatic transmission with a CVT (Continuous Variable Timing) gear box that ensures smooth driving, push start keyless operating system, fully auto air conditioner and a JVC audio system with USB and iPod while across the board safely features include driver and passenger airbag system and automatic contracting front seat belts that operate in tandem with airbags during a collision. Other safety features of the Mirage are anti-trap windows and anti-lock braking system with electronic brake distribution.

Chanaka Yatawara, UML's Chief Executive Officer said the debut of the Mirage in Sri Lanka was timely. "With top-class fuel efficiency among gasoline vehicles of 21 kilometers per liter under test conditions, depending on driving style and conditions of course, low carbon emission as well as its trendy sporty style, we expect that this model will have good demand", he added.

The technology that delivers such high fuel efficiency is the Mirage's aerodynamic styling and the optimization of the body structure which uses extensively light but high tensile steel. Compact on the outside but large on the inside the Mirage also boasts of spacious rear legroom, being bigger than that of its class and a MIVEC engine. This model is equipped with a 1.2 liter petrol engine, electronic power steering and catering to the growing demand of compact, simple and fuel efficient cars will no doubt have encouraging sales in the local market.

United Motors Lanka's network of branches across the country in Jaffna, Anuradhapura, Kurunegala, Nuwara Eliya, Ratnapura, Matara, Kandy and Nugegoda and its distributorship of 3S sales, service and service facilities will ensure excellent after sales and service.