Mitsubishi have high hopes for its new MPV, the Grandis, aiming for sales in excess of 2,000 units per year. Due on sale on July 1st, the Grandis makes its UK debut at the
Birmingham Motor Show in May with Mitsubishi promising class leading dynamics along with MPV practicality. Initially powered by a new 165 bhp 2.4-litre MIVEC engine only, with a 2.0-litre diesel to follow next year, the Grandis will cost from £18,499 for the Classic up to £22,999 for the range topping Elegance, which is fitted with the INVECS automatic transmission.
Marketed as the MPV you'll buy because you want to (as opposed to making a purchase out of necessity), the Grandis features sleek styling aimed to give it a more sporting image. The looks are complemented by a chassis with suspension, steering and brakes set up for driver enjoyment. Inside the new "Hide and Seat" concept features for the first time which allows the three rear seats all to be folded and stowed individually in the floor, thus eradicating the need for the removal of the whole seat assembly when luggage space is needed. The rear row of seats can also be fully reclined and/or turned around - a real boon for picnics or spectating at events.
Equipment levels are generous with the base model featuring 17-inch alloys, air-con, CD player, remote central locking and alarm. Safety features also abound with driver and passenger airbags plus curtain airbags for the first two rows of seats.
Dave Jenkins - 16 Apr 2004