The Mitsubishi TETRA is a concept car developed by Japanese automaker Mitsubishi Motors. It was first exhibited at the 57th Frankfurt Motor Show in 1997 as the Mitsubishi Technas,[1] before being displayed at the 32nd Tokyo Motor Show as the TETRA later the same year.[2] The name is an acronym of "Thoroughbred styling Ergonomic multi function interior Technologically advanced sporty performance RISE & All-round information system".[2]
| Mitsubishi TETRA | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Mitsubishi Motors |
| Production | 1997 |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Concept car |
| Body style | 5-door SUV |
| Layout | Front engine, 4WD |
| Related | Mitsubishi Legnum |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 3.0 L GDI V6 |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 4,505 mm (177.4 in) |
| Width | 1,855 mm (73.0 in) |
| Height | 1,645 mm (64.8 in) |
The TETRA was an attempt to combine the traditional benefits of a sports utility vehicle with the more performance-biased handling of a car, by lowering the ground clearance and overall height, and thereby the center of gravity, while using a wide track and wide, low profile tires.[2]
Under the skin, it utilised a 6G72 24-valve 3.0-litre DOHC V6 with gasoline direct injection, mated to an INVECS-II five-speed automatic transmission. The electronically controlled, full-time four-wheel drive system was heavily based on that of the high performance Legnum VR-4 wagon, incorporating a center differential and Active Yaw Control (AYC). The same car was the donor of the four wheel multi-link suspension, rear self-levelling mechanism,[2] and RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) passive safety construction.[3]
Styling details included a vertically split rear tailgate, center-opening suicide doors at the rear, and a two-piece split-opening hood.[2]
References
edit- ^ "Mitsubishi Motors Exhibits HSR-VI Advanced Car & Technas Concept Car At 57th Frankfurt Motor Show" (Press release). Mitsubishi Motors. August 29, 1997.
- ^ a b c d e "Mitsubishi Motors 32nd Tokyo Motor Show Exhibits" (Press release). Mitsubishi Motors. October 15, 1997. Archived from the original on November 18, 2009.
- ^ "RISE: Passive Safety that reliably protects occupants in extreme circumstances". Mitsubishi Motors. Archived from the original on 2006-10-22.