Mitsubishi's top level executives are charging full steam ahead with major plans to revitalize their brand in the U.S., Automotive News reports. Topping their initiatives will be a revision of the dealership network, as well as the launch of a new SUV and small car by 2012.Next fall, the automaker plans on releasing their all-new CUV, the Outlander Sport. The new crossover draws much inspiration from the Concept cX model that debuted at the 2007 Frankfurt show and will utilize a Lancer platform. A 2.0L four-cylinder provide the power, and as with the Lancer, front- or all-wheel drive are both available.
A global small car will follow two years later and will add to another attractive, eco-friendly element to the automaker's repertoire. It'll be smaller than the current JDM and European market Colt and will probably get a 1.0 to 1.3L gasoline engine. A plug-in hybrid and EV edition will come in 2013, sources say.Mitsubishi's sales in the first nine months of the year have plummeted 47% in the U.S. As a result, according to Mitsubishi Motors Corp. President Osamu Masuko, the automaker will undergo an in depth review of its 400-plus dealership network.
Source: Automotive News (subscription required)