Prototype is a better term for this specific concept being that it will preview a new model Mitsubishi will assemble at Pininfarina, after receiving component stampings from Mitsubishi's NedCar plant in the Netherlands, which also produces DaimlerChrysler's smart forfour.
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| When it becomes available, the new droptop will replace Mitsubishi's CZ2 Cabriolet, which features a fabric softtop. (Photo: Mitsubishi Motors North America) |
When it becomes available, the new droptop will replace Mitsubishi's CZ2 Cabriolet, which features a fabric softtop. The addition of the new retractable hard top will help the model stay up to date with other offerings in the European marketplace, which have converted to the more weather friendly convertible.
Weather, of course, is only part of the retractable hardtop's advantage, the other attributes being the addition of a more rigid shell when the top is upright, benefiting handling and rollover safety. When closed while parked, the hardtop is also less penetrable than a fabric roof, reducing the opportunity of theft and vandalism, which in-turn will reduce insurance premiums.
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| The addition of the new retractable hard top will help the Colt stay up to date with other offerings in the European marketplace. (Photo: Mitsubishi Motors North America) |
Many consider the European Colt to be Mitsubishi's best car, a claim bolstered by its many critical accolades throughout Europe since being introduced in May 2004, including the coveted "Das Goldene Lenkrad" (Golden Steering Wheel) presented by the German Sunday newspaper "Bild am Sonntag" published by Axel Springer AG.
The Colt also won "Car of the Year in Denmark 2005" by the Danish Automotive Journalists Club, "Compact Car of the Year 2004" by the Kampioen magazine published by the Dutch automobile association, ANWB, "Rumania Car of the Year 2005", "Incredible 2004" by CAR in the UK, and "OpMaat 2004-2005" by the Dutch OpMaat (The Right Size) magazine.