Mitsubishi cX: Confirmed for Production

During last year's Frankfurt auto show, Mitsubishi showed off a tall hatchback which

it dubbed the Concept-cX. The little five-door was styled in the likeness of the Lancer and included that car's attention-grabbing, forward-tilted “shark” nose, as well as a nifty all-glass tailgate. Earlier this week, Mitsubishi confirmed that the cX is well on its way to production and will arrive as a new model in the brand's lineup rather than as a replacement for the Colt, as previously expected.

Besides the fact that the small crossover market is booming around the world, the production version of the cX (which has yet to receive an official name) would be an ideal addition to the brand's North American lineup. It would be Mitsubishi's smallest product, undercutting the compact Lancer in size, and yet, with available all wheel drive and a higher seating position, would target vehicles like the Suzuki SX4, Dodge Caliber and Subaru Impreza.

Mitsubishi hasn't confirmed whether or not we'll be getting the vehicle here in North America, but it has mentioned that in international marketplaces the little crossover will feature the brand's newest technologies, including a brand new in-house developed 1.8-liter turbodiesel with a variable geometry turbocharger that produces 136 horsepower and 206 lb-ft of torque. It will also feature the brand's SST twin-clutch transmission.

Although most diesels don't make it to North America, Mitsubishi has already committed to developing a clean diesel that can meet our stringent emission standards; if developed from the same family this engine could also arrive on our shores.