It makes sense that Mitsubishi is jumping into the idea of smaller, more compact autos that either use gas much more efficiently than other models or solely run on electric power.  We’ve brought you quite a bit of information about the “i” that is rolling into the U.S. market later this fall.  This electric car is just a small sampling of the growing line-up of similar autos that Mitsubishi will be rolling out, here in the United States, as well as other markets, where subcompact autos have already made a big showing.

Another auto that Mitsubishi in is talks to roll out here in U.S. is a replacement for the Colt, which is a model from the automaker that is sold in auto markets in other parts of the world.  Models such as the the Springfield Mitsubishi Eclipse, you can find here at O’Brien Mitsubishi of Normal , for example, might be sold in other markets under a different name or possibly not at all.  This all new model, which is set to roll out globally in 2012 and after that make a name for itself here in the U.S.  The exact time frame has not been set.

But when it does, here are some features that will likely cater to certain drivers, especially those who want something smaller that uses gas more efficiently than say a larger SUV.  Here are some other features that you might find useful:

• Options of a 1.0 or 1.2 liter engines, the 1.2 most likely the one that would appeal to drivers here
• Mitsubishi’s variable valve timing system
• Engine start/stop system that will be great for fuel efficiency
• Advanced braking technology
• Future plans for electric technology

Another feature that will be at the forefront of engineering will be an aerodynamic design.  The concept version features a sloping roof line which helps contribute to this goal.  The look of the updated Colt features a clean, sleek design.

Your Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer is excited to hear that this auto is gaining a lot of interest worldwide and will likely make it to local markets for drivers who like this style of car.  Stay tuned for more details!

We’re just a few months into 2011, but there’s already plenty of information out there about 2012 models that will rolling into dealerships.  One such model we’d like to tell you about is the 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse 2 door GT coupe.

Standard Equipment

When you inquire about this at our store, we’ll proudly tell you all the great features that comes standard with this sporty ride.  It’s great to have an option on the market that is not only stylish, but helps you get the most out of your automotive budget.  Let’s a take a look at some of the features you’ll enjoy.

With the GT Sport, you’ll be able to cruise around enjoying your favorite music thanks to a 650-watt Rockford Fosgate nine-speaker audio system.  The top of the line GT trim comes with a very nice V6, 256 horsepower engine that will allow you to cruise past your envious friends and family with some serious speed and power!  Other features on this Mitsubishi Eclipse, drivers in central Illinois will be able to test drive at our store, include a power drivers seats, HID headlamps, and a power sunroof, just to name a few.

If you’d like to further customize your upcoming 2012 GT coupe, there are some options such as the following:

• Front air dam that is color keyed
• Extensions to the side sills
• Air dam on the vehicle’s rear
• All three of these items are part of the Sport Aero Package

There is even the option of adding a few items that have to be installed at your Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer such as floor mats and a rear wing.  Any or all of these options will make the GT coupe a vehicle that fits your driving personality perfectly!

What’s New for the 2012 GT Coupe

One feature you might notice is that the roof panel is painted black, along with a 12 volt outlet that is part of the center console.  That’s convenient should you be in a bind and need something charged fast and in a convenient location to the driver.  It also comes with a lowered suspension.  Of course, features will vary on the Eclipse, based on which trim you choose.

The 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer is a smaller sedan with plenty of nice features and O’Brien Mitsubishi of Normal, your leading Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer, has several in stock. Let us show you some reasons why this car is one you shouldn’t pass up.

Exterior Styling

One area that stands out on this car is the styling of the front grille. It aggressively juts out at you, with the eye-catching trapezoid shape, with horizontally placed headlights that fit in nicely with the whole front end design. Looking at the sedan version from the side, it has a long and lean design that makes the car flow very nicely. Even the five-door hatchback with the shorter backside balances out the “shark-like” front end very nicely. Overall, we agree here at the dealership that the exterior style was done very well and is sure to wow the customer.

Affordability

The 2010 Lancer has the advantage of coming in many trims with various features sure to attract buyers with all different budgets. Here at O’Brien Mitsubishi of Normal, we want to help you get the best deal possible. For starters, if you choose a base Lancer, you’re looking at a price tag of around $18-$19K. The five-door hatchback GTS model with a manual transmission is priced at $23K.  The top of the line Lancer for 2010 is the four door sedan, Evolution MR Touring model priced at $41K.  Please keep in mind that we also offer special Internet pricing deals, so check with the staff here for even more information.

Driving Highlights

As we’ve told you, there are many different trims offered in the Lancer, similar to other models, such as the Mitsubishi Galant, Normal, IL residents should test drive through our store.   Depending what trim you choose, you may find features that stand out.  For example, the GTS and Evolution models are noted for excellent handling and steering.  The GTS Hatchback is also complimented for offering an overall fun, smooth ride.  All models come with an overall pleasant driving experience that makes this car a solid choice.

Please visit your local Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer today and see our large inventory of Lancers and other new and used models.  Find a great deal on the perfect car!

Tis the season….for plenty of winter travel.  Between holiday shopping, parties, and trips to see family, you’ll be spending quite a bit of time in your new or pre-owned auto you hopefully purchased at your favorite Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer.  We’d like to take some time and remind you of a few ways to keep yourself safe behind the wheel, along with any passengers you’re traveling with during the holiday season and the winter beyond.

Longer Distance Driving?

For those of you planning to take a trip where you’ll be spending some serious time in your auto, please remember these tips for safe travels.

• Survival items:  Have in your auto a cell phone programmed with with roadside assistance, AAA, or any other auto related numbers you need in case of emergency or breakdown.  Also, a blanket, first aid kit, snacks, water, flashlight, and plenty of warm clothing to layer in are vital if you get sidelined during a long trip.
• If snow forces you to stop driving, stay in your vehicle.  Trekking to find help could leave you lost or injured.  Staying with your auto will help make it easier for a rescuer to find you.
• Make sure snow, ice or mud is not clogging the exhaust pipe of your Mitsubishi Galant.  Normal, IL residents traveling with clogged exhaust pipes could become very sick from the carbon monoxide that could leak into the auto’s cabin as a result.

General Snow Driving Tips

• Drive slowly.  Everything takes longer on wet pavement, so accelerating, decelerating and the like will be easier if you just take your time and take it slow during wintry weather.
• Be familiar with your brakes.  Brake by keeping your heel on the floor and using the ball of your foot to apply pressure will probably work the best.
• Avoid coming to a complete stop quickly if at all possible.  When roads are snow covered, coasting to your intended stop light or stop sign, if you can, might be better for you and your auto.

Those of us here at O’Brien Mitsubishi of Normal, your favorite Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer, want you to be safe while traveling this winter!

During times of economic distress, we all must cut back. Even large, recognizable companies, whose products and brand are instantly known, are cutting costs and streamlining their workflow. For Mitsubishi, the industry-wide cutbacks resulted in the closing of tuner Ralliart, which was closely associated with the automaker.

Fortunately for customers at the Mitsubishi Bloomington car dealer, according to the automaker’s spokesperson Maurice Durand, the close won’t affect Ralliart-branded Mitsubishi models sold in the United States.

The reason is because the closure applies only to the Ralliart subsidiary in Japan, which produces high-performance parts for street and race cars. Therefore, only manufacturers that import official Ralliart Japan products will be affected. In most markets, the Ralliart parts are merely rebranded components produced by another tuner.

Thus, for a Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer, the closing will signal no drastic changes, especially since the parts used on official Ralliart models sold in the U.S. are developed separately.

However, according to Durand, Ralliart vehicles might still have a future as Mitsubishi might continue producing them. For hardcore tuners, the closure of Ralliart might be considered a loss. Yet, in the current economic climate, people have drastically altered their car-purchasing habits. The demand for high-performance parts has declined, a reality confirmed by employees at a Bloomington car dealer.

The specific services and processes scheduled to cease due to the closing include the company’s support to motorsport customers (Technical Support and Mitsubishi/Ralliart Driver of the Year award); new planning, development, and merchandizing of Ralliart products; and dispatching of new product and motorsport information over the internet.

The only Ralliart products continuing production are the FIA VO parts with Mitsubishi also taking on all those remaining in development. Information concerning FIA Group-N will also now reside on the Mitsubishi website.

When the dust clears, the majority of customers at the Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer wont be affected by the change. Without a doubt, Mitsubishi will mourn the loss of this long-standing partnership. However, its dedication to customers remains strong, and the automaker will keep producing the official Ralliart models in the U.S. to meet ongoing demand.

For the past 23 years, family-owned Bloomington car dealership, O’Brien Mitsubishi of Normal, has changed the way that Illinois buys cars. They have provided clients with an easy, relaxed, and enjoyable car buying experience. Their selection is superb and their service is unmatchable. However, their current sales incentives are even more remarkable than usual, and you cannot afford to miss them.

O’Brien Mitsubishi of Normal has been in business since 1987 thanks to their loyal customers. As a way of saying thank you, the Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer is offering an unbelievable up to 23% off the purchase of a new Mitsubishi. Do the math: that is almost a quarter off the ticket price. O’Brien Mitsubishi is also offering zero-percent financing for 72 months on new Mitsubishis. So if ever there was a time to buy a Mitsubishi, it’s now. Get to our Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer today and test drive your favorite new Mitsubishi. This may be the last time anyone offers you nearly a fourth off on a new vehicle. Don’t let this deal pass you up. It may be another 23 years before you see savings like this again.

Mitsubishi has announced it will increase production of i-MiEVs, as orders have far exceeded expectations. The Nikkei reports that Mitsubishi’s battery suppliers have been told that they plan to make 9,000 i-MiEVs this year. Lithium Energy Japan, a partnership between GS Yuasa, Mitsubishi Motors and Mitsubishi Corp., will make enough packs for 7,000 cars while GS Yuasa will make an additional 2,000 packs. The car, which has been available to corporate customers in Japan since last year, goes on sale to the general public there in April.

This i minicar from Mitsubishi replaces four-speed automatic transmission with a two-position gear selector that lets you choose Drive or Eco mode. And where the tachometer normally goes on the instrument panel, this i sports a meter that indicates the charge status of the battery and the discharge rate. But the most critical innovation is the replacement of conventional nickel-metal hydride batteries in favor of the latest, state-of-the-art lithium-ion kind. Smaller, lighter and more powerful, these batteries are being co-developed by Mitsubishi Motors, GS Yuasa Ltd. and Mitsubishi Trading Co. See your Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer for more.

Powering the electric-powered iMIEV is a rear-mounted, permanent-magnet synchronous motor developing 63 horsepower and 133 pound-feet of torque. It jumps from rest to 60 mph in under 9.0 seconds on its way to a top speed of 82 mph. Flick the gear selector into Eco and the power output drops automatically from 63 hp to 43 hp, extending your cruising range. In ideal conditions, the i MIEV gets 100 miles on a full charge. Learn more at your Mitsubishi Bloomington car dealership.

As for charging the battery, there’s a three-way system. There’s plug-in recharging using the Japanese grid, which takes 14 hours for a full charge on a 100-volt domestic outlet or half that time on a 200-volt industrial outlet. There’s also a Mitsubishi-built quick-charge system that replenishes 80 percent of the battery charge in just 30 minutes. And if you charge at night, you can reduce your running costs by 87 percent compared to the conventional gasoline-powered i. If you take into account the CO2 emissions produced by Japan’s electric power plants (most use nuclear power) that produce the electricity required to refuel the car, then the i MIEV emits only 28 percent of the CO2 of a comparable gasoline-powered i.

For for on the Mitsubishi iMIEV and other Mitsubishi vehicles, visit your Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer.

The 2010 Mitsubishi i, which is not available in the United States at this point, was tested by the professionals at InsideLine earlier this year. The reaction? Well, it works in Japan.

Not to insult Japan or the manufacturers of Mitsubishi – it’s just that the Mitsubishi i is required to meet strict limits on size, engine displacement, and power, which entitle consumers to tax breaks. Basically they are designed to meet the needs of the urban commuters – travel at low speed in congested areas and be parked easily. If the vehicle ever comes to the United States, Mitsubishi might need to make several alterations to meet the needs of the American consumer. Those interested in the 2010 Mitsubishi i can obtain information at your Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer.

With a measurement of 133.5 inches, the Mitsubishi i is more than two feet shorter than the smallest Honda model in America. However, the interior is still spacious enough to fit four average-sized people with plenty of head room. Additionally, the Mitsubishi i’s rear seats fold to create a flat load floor, allowing enough room for packing considerably large cargo. For more details on this deceptive vehicle, consumers can visit their Bloomington, IL car dealers or any other dealership lot where Mitsubishi vehicles are sold.

Many who observe the vehicle in person may not be able to figure out where the engine is, which is actually obscurely mounted under the rear cargo area. As far as the power goes, regulations limit Kei cars to engines of no more than 660cc and 63 horsepower. Therefore, the Mitsubishi i engine is equipped with a 659cc 3B20 inline-3 engine, yielding 63 horsepower and 69 pound-feet of torque. The engine works with variable valve timing, a turbocharger and intercooling. The vehicle also has a four-speed automatic transmission and optional all-wheel drive. In addition to these features that may appear inferior to the American driver, the 2010 Mitsubishi i reaches 0-60 in a not-so-impressive 14.9 seconds. While this may work on the streets of Japan, the vehicle is not expected to be powerful enough for U.S. highways. Furthermore, the 2010 Mitsubishi i gets only 27.7 mpg – probably because the engine must work so hard to keep up with traffic. Mitsubishi owners can compare their current vehicle with the 2010 Mitsubishi i by visiting any Bloomington, IL car dealer, particularly O’Brien’s Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer.

Although the 2010 Mitsubishi i is not impressive by any means, we must keep in mind that it fulfills its purpose: commuting short distances at low speed. This vehicle definitely meets the requirements for drivers of Japan, but if a model were to ever be introduced to the United States, consumers can expect alterations to meet the needs of American drivers.

The all new 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS has been receiving much praise for its rock solid structure, sleek design, and the extra enhancements available. There has been much talk surrounding this vehicle and it’s no wonder – the car has been reported to have a superior engine and strong brake power, along with an exceptionally strong chassis, giving it a solid foundation. The smooth and easy to handle power steering along with the manual clutch and shifter add to the list of attributes this car brings to the market…

O’Brien Mitsubishi, one of the top Bloomington, IL car dealers and a trusted Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer, is a great source to find the 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer. You can stop in to take one for a test drive, and also see the design enhancements made to the 2010 model. The design updates are few, but they are worth a trip to the Bloomington car dealership, O’Brien Mitsubishi, just to check out. Exterior and interior design updates include new smoked rear tail lights, more pronounced side sills, a new gauge cluster, chrome accents and a color multi-information display.

This vehicle also comes with options – you can choose to add on extra options such as the sun and sound package which includes a power glass sunroof, six disc CD changer, 710-watt premium sound system, satellite radio, fast key entry system. There is also the option to add the touring package which includes leather seats, high intensity discharge lights, rain sensing wipers, heated front seats, and a sound resistant windshield. They also offer the option to choose a premium paint job, for a small price. The starting price for the 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS is only $19,710 and each package is under $2,000 each.

O’Brien Mitsubishi, your trusted Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer, is your number one source for more information on these all new 2010 Mitsubishi Lancers. Stop by this Bloomington car dealership for a test drive, or to chat with one of the representatives there for more information on the cars. They’re extremely helpful and O’Brien Mitsubishi is surely one of the best quality Bloomington, IL car dealers you’ll find. With so many options and such a great price, you will be sure to find exactly what you need at O’Brien Mitsubishi of Normal.

Mitsubishi is hopeful that sometime in the very near future their electric cars will be a staple on the roads of America. The automaker hopes to have electric vehicles available for purchase to the general public by winter or spring of next year. While these vehicles are not currently available at your local Bloomington car dealership, Mitsubishi believes the interest is there and that the vehicles will be widely popular when they become available in the future.

Mitsubishi has developed cars such as the i-MiEV to debut their hybrid technology and these vehicles are currently being used by government agencies around the country. Trials like these, as well as survey results that show nine percent of Japanese customers as well as eight percent of Americans are interested in purchasing electric vehicles give Mitsubishi confidence that automobiles like i-MiEV are the wave of the future. Dealerships as local as Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer O’Brien Mitsubishi of Normal report customers interested in hybrid technology.

The i-MiEV is currently on roads all over the country in prototype form, with many of these vehicles occurring in Japan where the first customer available EV Mitsubishis are expected to debut. Japanese drivers who have had the opportunity to drive the Mitsubishi i-MiEV report the car is fun to drive and simple to charge.

The i-MiEV comes with a 200 volt plug which is inserted into a socket and then charged for whatever duration of time the driver chooses. This Mitsubishi charges to 80 percent of its batter capacity in approximately 30 minutes. There are currently not many charging stations and the cost at present is free, however when EV’s become available locally at Bloomington, IL car dealers these details will certainly change.

Electric vehicles like the Mitsubishi i-MiEV are drumming up considerable interest not only because they are so environmentally friendly, they are also cost efficient and an incredibly innovative new technology. Drivers who have had the opportunity to use the i-MiEV report the car handles well and accelerates smoothly. It also is virtually silent and includes features such as a gauge reading “remaining mileage” to let drivers know how much further they can drive before power runs out. To find out more about Mitsubishi electric vehicles visit your local Bloomington IL car dealers and Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer.