Mitsubishi 380 Series III: '07 Update Heralds New Look

Motoring Channel Staff - 19/July/2007

Clovelly Park, Australia — Slated to arrive at Mitsubishi dealerships nationwide at the end of July, the new 380 Series III has broken cover. Changes to the revised 380 large car will include new exterior styles cues, updated interiors, and new model variants, changes which are aimed at increasing the cars appeal.

Thus far, Mitsubishi's 380 hasn't set the sales charts alight, despite being a very good car. See the road tests for more information. But as the local large car industry isn't what it once used to be, times are tough for vehicles such as the Holden Commodore, Ford Falcon, and the Mitsubishi 380.

But you couldn't accuse Mitsubishi of giving up. Sales have risen somewhat, and the Series III models should generate renewed awareness of the Australian-built large car. Though things like ESP are not yet part of the 380 package, Mitsubishi has completed an impressive turnaround in Australia, increasing overall sales to the point where it could turn a profit within a year.

Launched in 2005, the Mitsubishi 380's best attributes were it's highly tractable engine, interior space, and value for money (it was voted the "Most affordable Family Car" for both 2006 and 2007). The car

There new model range and pricing is as follows:

•  ES - Entry Level: $28,990 ($30,990 auto)

•  SX - Highly Specified: $34,990 (auto only)

•  VRX - Sports Model: $36,990 ($38,990 auto)

•  GT - Fully Equipped: $44,990 (auto only)

Options for the revised 380 include metallic paint ($350), pearlescent paint ($380), sunroof ($2,000), and the luxury pack for the VRX that includes leather and sunroof ($2,500).

The president and CEO Mitsubishi Australia, Robert McEniry, said the new Series III 380 range builds on the vehicle's already solid reputation. "Feedback from our 380 customers has been overwhelmingly positive, with a large number of new owners saying they felt they 'couldn't have bought a better vehicle,'" Mr McEniry said. 

"And we believe that with this realignment of the product line-up, the 380 Series III is now, more than ever, the perfect vehicle for Australian families," added the Mitsubishi boss.On top of the new four model line-up, Mitsubishi will offer two limited edition models:

ES Sports
380 Fusion Burst

The ES Sports will be available in limited volumes from launch, and as Mitsubishi explains, it adds a rear wing, 17-inch alloy wheels, upgraded sports suspension, a sunroof and Bluetooth phone connectivity to the standard features of the ES, priced at $28,990.

For consumers who really want to make a statement, the second special edition model, the 380 Fusion Burst, will appeal. It has a show-car look with flaming orange duco, matching seat trim and a 'large' sunroof.

The visual changes to the Series III models consist of restyled front bumpers, rear spoilers, alloy wheels and paint treatments, while internal changes on the Series III include new surface finishes, seat trims and upgraded equipment levels.

Mitsubishi says the sporty VRX variant receives the lion's share of the Series III styling enhancements, which is clear to see from the photography. It gets a full body package including front bumper insert, rear bumper insert and a large rear wing. New alloy wheels and charcoal grille paint treatment set off the exterior, while the interior features new luxury cloth seat trim with VRX logo and a restyled leather steering wheel.

Mitsubishi's signature model, the 380 GT, has been further enhanced with machined alloy wheels, chrome body detail and a sports type instrument cluster. An optional Luxury Pack (designated the GTL) is available on the GT and replaces the previous model's LX variant. It adds things like stone leather, an alternate rear deck lid and tail lamps, a luxury instrument cluster, sunroof and silver painted alloy wheels.

All 380 Series III sedans include automatic climate control air-conditioning, remote central locking, power windows and mirrors, cruise control, power adjustable driver's seat, steering wheel audio controls, dual front and side SRS airbags, and ABS with EBD as standard features.

No mechanical changes have been made to the Mitsubishi 380 range, which is powered by a 3.8-litre SOHC V6 engine. Though it may sound low-tech compared to its DOHC Holden, Toyota, and Ford rivals, it was one aspect of the car that was roundly praised when we reviewed it last. With 4-valves per cylinder, the V6 engine delivers 175kW of power @ 5250rpm and 343Nm of torque @ 4000rpm. 

While not class leading on paper, on the road it is a different story. Two gearboxes are offered: a 5-speed automatic with sports mode transmission, or a 5-speed manual - the latter only available on ES and VRX variants.

Priced from $28,990, the Mitsubishi 380 undercuts its rivals on price, and Mitsubishi will no doubt be hoping to retain the mantle of "Most affordable Family Car".

"The vehicle has already been recognised by the Combined Motoring Associations - twice - as being the most economical family car to run in Australia, and the 380 Series III continues that tradition. I think you would have to look long and hard to find a vehicle that comes close to matching the features and specification levels of our 380 line-up - particularly the special launch edition ES Sports model."

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