Mitsubishi Challenger styled for street presence

By ALASTAIR SLOANE

Mitsubishi has given its four-wheel-drive Challenger a fresh new look as part of its 2005 model year update.

The new vehicle, pictured on this page for the first time in New Zealand, is expected to go on sale here in November-December.

The Challenger features Mitsubishi's new global styling, the most prominent of which is a new body-coloured grille with chrome accent that uses elements of the previous grille.

There are also new six-spoke alloy wheels across the range.

Mitsubishi says the styling changes, along with the new tail-light assembly with its clear lens, give the Challenger a new street presence.

Inside, styling changes include titanium-look highlight panels on the dash and surrounds in some models and charcoal woodgrain highlights in others.

The premium Exceed model is expected to get a choice of leather interiors, while the entry-level GLX Challenger will retain its knitted cloth trim.

A number of changes have been made to the paint palette, too, including two-tone colour combinations.

Challenger retains its line-up of petrol and diesel engines.

The petrol unit is a 3-litre, 24-valve SOHC V6 producing 135kW of power at 5500rpm and 265Nm of torque at 4500rpm and mated to a four-speed automatic.

The diesel is powered by a 2.8-litre intercooled unit developing 94kW at 4000rpm and 294Nm of torque at 2000rpm. The diesel also uses a four-speed automatic gearbox.

All models have a braked towing capacity of 2270kg. The unbraked limit is 680kg.

Drive is through Mitsubishi's Easy Select part-time four-wheel-drive system, with its hybrid limited slip rear differential and synchronised free-wheeling front differential that allows for four-wheel-drive engagement on the fly up to 100km/h.

The front suspension is double wishbone, torsion bar and stabiliser bar, while the rear is a three-link, coil springs and stabiliser bar arrangement.

All models come with ABS anti-lock brakes and dual front airbags.

Unconfirmed is the inclusion of electronic brakeforce distribution, which aids emergency braking.

Multi-adjustable front seats are also standard, along with power windows and mirrors, air-conditioning, AM/FM six-speaker radio with single CD, and central locking, map lights, cup holders and side steps.

The Exceed gets the addition of front fog lights, chrome exterior highlights, leather-wrapped steering wheel, electric sunroof, and AM/FM six-speaker radio with six-unit CD.

The recommended retail price of the Challenger is $44,990 for the GLX model and $49,990 for Exceed. However, Mitsubishi dealers have been known to discount demonstration models by around $7000.