Mar 2001 Volume 82 Number 3 "serving the protectors"
New Magna stunningly smooth
By Jim Barnett

Mitsubishi has made some dramatic changes to its Magna-Verada line-up in a bid to return to profitability. Alterations include new styling, improved equipment levels, more power, better economy and new colour schemes. And, under the Magna banner, Mitsubishi has released its first true high-performance sports sedan, the VR-X.

TJ Magnas feature modern new grilles, an “eagle-beak” bonnet design, a flatter boot lid and smart new tail lamps. Sport and VR-X models feature:

• 16- x 7-inch alloy wheels.
• Dual headlamps.
• Fog lamps.
• A larger rear spoiler.
• Various colour-coded items.

VR-X has an aggressive body kit that features multi-intake front air dam, wheel arch extensions, side skirts and a rear skirt with exhaust cut-out.

Engineers have been able to squeeze an extra 3kW of power from the already perky 3.5-litre V6 (now 150kW). The addition of a new engine management computer brings better fuel economy. Mitsubishi claims economy akin to a four-cylinder Camry.

Further tweaking of the 3.5-litre engine and a new free-flow exhaust system give Magna Sport and the new VR-X significantly more power. Both have 163kW on tap, making them deceptively quick while they retain a stunning quality of smoothness. Optional on Sport and VR-X models is a five-speed tiptronic-style “Sports Mode” automatic transmission. The previous four-speed unit is now standard on both Verada models.

In addition to four new exterior paint colours, the interior now has fresh two-tone colour schemes. A high-power, four-speaker, single-CD audio system is now standard in all Magna models. Verada models feature an in-dash, four-disc stacker with eight speakers that give a superb sound.

A recent Police Journal test of the VR-X manual proved Mitsubishi can cut it with the best when it comes to performance, handling and sporty looks. On the open road VR-X is fabulous, offering blistering acceleration and pin-sharp handling. Power delivery is instant and quiet; one can only hear the engine in the upper rev-range, while the larger exhaust provides a sporty note. The five-speed manual gearbox is smooth and precise, with gear ratios perfectly matched to the engine.

New Magna may be the catalyst to ensure Mitsubihsi’s long-term viability. The product is certainly good enough, but now it’s up to the motoring public. Prices range from $27,990 (3.0-litre manual Executive) to $37,790 (VR-X manual).

Challenger’s continuing appeal

Coinciding with the introduction of new Magna, Mitsubishi has released its latest medium-sized Challenger 4WD. Since its March ’98 launch, Challenger has established itself as a credible alternative to Pathfinder, Cherokee and Frontera. A fresh appearance, new suspension and the introduction of a luxury LS model, make it even more appealing.

And its appeal continues through its strengths: price, comfort, economy and performance.

A bold new grille surrounded by lots of chrome features up front, as does a new bumper and headlamps.

Other exterior alterations include new tail lamps and rear bumper, more aggressive alloy wheels and the addition of side mouldings on two-tone models.

The new LS is distinguished by chrome mirrors and door handles, rear spoiler, unique side steps and fog lamps.

The 3.0-litre SOHC multi-valve V6 engine is unchanged but offers adequate power (136kW) with ample torque for medium towing duties (265Nm). The engine is silky smooth and offers very good fuel economy for this type of vehicle. The Police Journal tested an LS auto, which used 15.3 L/100km towing a fully laden camper trailer and 12.7 L/100km unladen.

Power comes via a part-time 4WD system, using a free-wheeling front differential. One can select between 2WD and 4WD high range at up to 100km/h on loose surfaces. Mitsubishi’s INVECS II “intelligent” four-speed automatic transmission is standard on LS and optional on the entry model.

Perhaps one of the biggest improvements is to the suspension. While the front still has torsion bars, the rigid leaf-sprung rear axle has been replaced by a three-link rear end with coil springs. Although still not as refined as some, the suspension performed well, with the rear end capable of towing a hefty load.

Given its entry price of $36,990 for a five-speed manual, the base model Challenger is well equipped. Standard items include:

• Dual airbags.
• Air conditioning.
• Four-speaker (CD compatible) audio system.
• Central locking.
• Alloy wheels.
• Side steps.
• Power widows, mirrors and antenna.

Priced at $44,490, LS includes:

• Leather upholstery.
• Woodgrain dashboard.
• Single CD player with six speakers.
• Illuminated vanity mirrors.
• ABS.
• Cruise control.
• Limited-slip differential.
• Automatic transmission.

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