Mitsubishi plans to launch the RVR, an urban crossover, in India in the second half of 2011 reports Autocar India. The all-new compact crossover shares the same platform as the larger Outlander and has the same wheelbase.
The RVR compact crossover will use a brand new 1.8-liter MIVEC petrol engine (the concept used a clean diesel) tuned to achieve a strong fuel economy rating.
The Mitsubishi RVR gets a “Jet fighter” grille, the design identity of Mitsubishi Motors, on the front mask. Sporty, energetic exterior lines and a curving roof line with superior aerodynamics considering front, side and rear drag reduction, to express a dynamic silhouette. LED brake lights at the rear which provide superior visibility.
Comfortable passenger interior using smooth, soft padding, mesh fabric, and a sporty appearance with silver highlights accenting the black keynote color scheme. Elegance with plating on the gearshift frame and a genuine leather-trimmed steering wheel and gearshift knob.*5
The power train combines a high-output, high fuel efficiency 1.8-liter, 16-valve DOHC MIVEC engine (maximum output: 102kW[139PS]/6,000rpm; maximum torque: 172Nm [17.5kgfm] / 4,200rpm) with a paddle shift*6 INVECS-III sport mode 6-speed CVT. Low (Japanese 10-15 mode) fuel consumption at the best level in its class of 15.2km/L for 2WD and 15.0km/L for 4WD models, achieved from a regenerative braking system (high efficiency electric power generation control), electric power steering.
The 4WD models adopt the electronically controlled 4WD system also used for the Outlander and the Delica D:5 that tailors traction control to the front and rear wheels to match driving conditions, where a selector gives the driver the choice of three driving modes (2WD, 4WD AUTO and 4WD LOCK).
The premium compact SUV segment will get kick started with launch of Skoda Yeti. Mitsubishi could launch the RVR at around Rs. 15 lakh mark. Hyundai have stopped selling the Tucson but could launch the ix35 which is now a good seller internationally.
