Mitsubishi unveils new GDI-Sigma technology, two new concept cars, launches the Shogun Pinin compact SUV and an all-new Space Runner at next week's IAA Frankfurt Motor Show.

GDI-Sigma - the next step in Gasoline Direct Injection
As a follow up to the brilliant (but flawed) GDI range of engines, Mitsubishi introduced the GDI-Sigma in March 1999. The GDI-Sigma technologies are designed to maximise fuel economy in an accessible and practical manner. They harness the GDI engine's inherent strengths to deliver a claimed 10-30% improvement in fuel economy over a current GDI engine, along with enhanced driveability.

In the GDI, petrol is directly injected into the cylinder, possibly delivering a combination of good fuel economy, power and response. More importantly, direct injection enables precise combustion control that makes the GDI easier to link with peripheral technologies.

Four technologies have been integrated with the GDI. The first coupling is GDI-CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). Next comes GDI-ASG (Automatic Stop & Go). The third is GDI-HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle). Finally, the GDI-Turbo is turbocharging that offers both high response and low fuel consumption. This is the one to look out for we think. However, check out Honda's latest V-TEC range for a serious technological rival.

Mitsubishi SUW Advance concept car
The SUW (Smart Utility Wagon) Advance is a car for the future according to Mitsubishi: a versatile, ultra-economical car with distinctive worldwide appeal.

The SUW Advance (see picture above) is driven by a GDI-HEV power train, which delivers greater efficiency and performance than an HEV powered by a conventional engine. Consuming just 3.6 litres per 100km, the SUW Advance complies with the European 3-litre car standard.

The interior, which seats up to five in comfort, is designed for utility. All occupants will find features, such as the wide-opening double doors, low and wide floor, versatile seating arrangements, and H-shaped front-rear passage, much to their advantage, while drivers will appreciate the centralised controls and displays, as well as the voice-activated guidance and voice command features. Mitsubishi say that the SUW Advance gives a very clear indication of how Mitsubishi cars of the future will look, feel and drive.

Mitsubishi SUW Compact concept car
The SUW Compact offers lively, highly responsive performance, while being extremely economical. Its compact body is perfect for urban mobility, yet provides plenty of interior space and a reassuring level of safety.

The SUW Compact features a newly developed 1.1-litre GDI engine that offers superb fuel economy and emission reduction, yet still provides the kind of nippy performance needed in a city. The GDI-ASG system reduces fuel consumption even further by stopping the engine when the car stops and restarting it the instant the driver wants to move off again. As a result, the SUW Compact has an excellent fuel economy rating of 4.5-litres per 100km. With further enhancements, Mitsubishi reckon that it has the potential to comply with the 3-litre car standard.

The SUW Compact's safety-enhanced body structure demonstrated excellent occupant protection from every direction in tests which included the European 64km/h ODB (Offset Deformable Barrier). It is complemented by an array of other safety features like front airbags, side airbags built into the seatbacks, ABS and brake assistance.

Despite its modest overall dimensions, the SUW Compact has a relatively large cabin. The interior design theme was "user-friendly universal design" that creates an enjoyable and stress-free driving environment. The harmony between the exterior and interior design makes the SUW Compact distinctive enough, with hints of the new Mini in the frontal styling.

News compiled by S.O'