Comfortable ride, spacious interior for its class, practical hatchback and saloon body styles, shared platform with Volvo S40/V40 contributing to perceived quality and safety.
Target Audience:
Families and individuals seeking a reliable, well-equipped, and reasonably priced compact car.
đ Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Geographical Coverage:
Europe, Asia, Australia, select other markets
Page Count
Page Count:
Extensive (typically 1500+ pages for a comprehensive workshop manual)
Manual Type
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English (primary, often includes translations for specific regions)
Approx. 115 PS (85 kW) at 6000 rpm, 150 Nm (111 lb-ft) torque at 4500 rpm
1.8L (4G93) Gdi:
Approx. 125 PS (92 kW) at 5500 rpm, 177 Nm (131 lb-ft) torque at 3750 rpm (Gasoline Direct Injection variant)
1.9L Turbo Diesel:
Approx. 90 PS (66 kW) at 4000 rpm, 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) torque at 2000 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for most gasoline engines, Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) for some 1.8L variants, Direct injection for Turbo Diesel.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating varies by market), Diesel fuel
đ§ Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission
Optional
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission
Features
Transmission Fluid:
Manual: SAE 75W-90 GL-4, Automatic: JWS 3309 (ATF T-IV equivalent) or similar
đ Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
5-door Hatchback, 4-door Saloon (Sedan)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2635 mm (103.7 inches)
Length:
Hatchback: Approx. 4300-4340 mm (169.3-170.9 inches), Saloon: Approx. 4470 mm (176.0 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1735 mm (68.3 inches)
Height:
Hatchback: Approx. 1445-1455 mm (56.9-57.3 inches), Saloon: Approx. 1440 mm (56.7 inches)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1150-1350 kg (2535-2976 lbs) depending on engine and trim
đĄïž Safety Features
Ratings
Euro Ncap Rating:
3 Stars (early models, updated in later phases)
Active Features
Braking System:
Standard front disc brakes, rear disc or drum brakes depending on model. Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).
Traction Control:
Optional or standard on higher trims in later years.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Optional side airbags on some models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners for front occupants.
đĄ Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory fitted radio cassette or CD player, optional premium sound systems available on higher trims. Aux-in and USB were not standard on early models.
Climate Control:
Manual air conditioning standard on many models, optional automatic climate control on higher trims.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available as an option on 1.8L and 2.0L models, and standard on some higher trims.
Parking Sensors:
Rare, usually an aftermarket fitment.
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Not available from factory. Available as an aftermarket upgrade.
đ§ Maintenance
Service Intervals
Engine Oil Change:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Typically every 90,000-120,000 km (56,000-75,000 miles) or 5-7 years for gasoline engines. Critical for preventing catastrophic engine damage.
Spark Plugs:
Every 60,000-100,000 km (37,000-62,000 miles) depending on spark plug type (standard vs. iridium).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG/SH/SJ or ACEA A2/A3, viscosity SAE 5W-30, 5W-40, or 10W-40 depending on ambient temperature.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mitsubishi Long Life Coolant (LLC) recommended.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Should be flushed and replaced every 2-3 years.
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Rust susceptibility (especially wheel arches and sills), exhaust system corrosion, potential for electrical gremlins (e.g., window regulators, central locking), timing belt tensioner issues on some early models, fuel pump failures, suspension wear (bushings, ball joints).
Gdi Specific Issues:
Carbon buildup in intake ports due to direct injection, requiring periodic cleaning. Potential for injector issues.
đ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mitsubishi Reputation:
Known for robust engines, reliable 4WD systems (though not applicable to Carisma's FWD focus), and a history in motorsport.
Model Evolution
First Generation:
Launched in 1995 for the 1996 model year, replacing the Lancer in some European markets. Based on the Mitsubishi Space Star concept.
Facelifts:
Received minor facelifts in 1999 and 2002, with styling updates and improved interior features. Introduction of GDI engines and common rail diesels.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily produced at the NedCar plant in Born, Netherlands, in cooperation with Volvo.
Discontinuation:
Production ceased in 2006 in Europe, with some markets continuing until 2010. Replaced by the Lancer in many regions.
đ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
General Reception:
Generally received mixed reviews, praised for comfort and practicality but criticized for styling by some and perceived build quality compared to some German rivals. Performance was adequate for the class.