| Long Term Test | Mitsubishi Colt Ralliart |
Been anywhere interesting?
It's a case of going, going, gone for the Colt, as this is our final report on the little white rocket. In the six months it's been with us it's covered around 8,000 miles, all of which have been rather enjoyable. We never felt short-changed getting in the Colt, it over-delivering on our expectations. Always quick, decently economical, well equipped and surprisingly able at the sort of big-mile journeys you'd usually think of as the reserve of larger cars the Colt will be missed here.
Anything stand out...?
The 1.5-litre turbocharged engine was always the Colt's most impressive aspect. It got stronger with every mile that rolled under its wheels, the 147bhp unit giving the Colt surprising pace. It wasn't just its sporting prowess that impressed, but the gutsy way it delivered its power - that one of the reasons it proved such a capable long-legged machine. For the £12,500 or so you'll pay for a new one today you get a car that's fast and fully kitted out with equipment, making it a reasonable buy for those wanting something small and enjoyable without breaking the bank.
It's perhaps the perfect machine for our downsizing times, as it's almost as spacious as the latest supermini offerings, is much faster and better equipped, all for entry- to middle-spec Fiesta money.
...and for the wrong reasons?
The boot is too small to be really useful, which for someone who likes to carry a lot of stuff around was a constant source of frustration. The interior is beginning to show its age too, the foot mats curling up and the odd squeak and rattle now evident. The plastics inside might not be the last word in quality, but they've worn well, with little sign of wear. The same cannot be said about the driver's seat, with the fabric on the squab looking like it was ready to give way any time soon - something we spotted on Mitsubishi's own high-mile Tom Walkinshaw tweaked Ralliart cars we tested in the summer.
The radio never gave great reception either and the steering could have done with a bit more feel.
Where next?
It's gone. Hopefully to a good home. We've no doubt whoever picks it up for the circa £9,000-£9,500 it's now worth will love it. Indeed, I'd be very tempted myself if I had the means. It might not be an obvious hot hatch choice, but in the time it spent with us it proved to be a rather good one.
