Appearing for the first time in 1962. Colt is back after a ten year absence! This seventh generation draws on the experience and aura of its cousin, the Clio, to re-enter the city car category. Mitsubishi, which joined the Renault-Nissan alliance in 2016, wants to get back into this hyper-competitive segment at lower costs. Following the example of the new ASX SUVclone Captur, Colt takes everything (body, chassis, engines, interior, infotainment system, etc.) from the French company. Both models are also assembled at the same plant in Turkey.

Are the differences the same?

Aesthetic differences relate to the radiator grille, daytime running lights and the Mitsubishi lettering in capital letters on the tailgate. We also note everything six versions in the range compared to ten for the French, which also offers two additional 100 hp engines. (gas and diesel). The Japanese starts at 17,990 euros with a small 1.0 gasoline 65 hp, ie. 500 euros less than the Clio. But as a hybrid, the Colt commands a higher price tag. The gap reaches 2,590 euros to that top of the range, barring discounts (barely on the market, the Colt doesn’t qualify for any discounts at the moment, no more than the Clio, just refreshed).

Less attractive…

To justify these additional costs, Colt comes with a five-year warranty (€612 option on Clio). In addition, a 360° camera and Bose Hi-Fi are standard (expect €1,200 to benefit from these on the Clio Esprit Alpine in the two-pack). But even if you add these options, the Clio remains 778 euros cheaper. And it has semi-autonomous driving as standard (costing €600), unlike the Mitsubishi. As a result, it’s hard to pick a Colt, even if we also find (unsurprisingly)excellent qualities of a French car, safe, pleasant to drive and versatile.

Finally, in terms of consumption, it’s a safe bet that this Colt will be as fuel efficient as the equivalent Clio, with our lab measuring an average of 5.3L/100km and 4.9L/100km in the city. After all, the Colt offers excellent service along the lines of the Clio. But this top-of-the-line range costs €2,590 more, and its distribution only partially justifies that…

Read also:

Renault is finalizing its new retro logo… slowly

Test Renault Austral (2022): Peugeot 3008 in the viewfinder!

Renault Scenic: no more minibuses, make room for an electric crossover