Mitsubishi Motors to bring new-generation EV i-MiEV to market

Delivery to corporate, governmental and local authority users starts late July
Sales to individuals to start April 2010

Tokyo, June 5, 2009 — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation today, on World Environment Day, unveiled the production version of the i-MiEV^{*1 *2} new-generation electric vehicle (EV), describing it as "the pioneer that will open the door to the next 100 years of our automobile society." The i-MiEV will go on sale on the Japanese market in late July of this year.

The i-MiEV represents the crystallization of some 40 years of electric vehicle development at Mitsubishi Motors. The company is presenting the production i-MiEV as the ultimate eco-car, a solution to the various challenges the automobile faces today including environmental pollution, global warming and the depletion of petroleum-based energy supplies. The company will continue its extensive collaboration with both private and public sectors in Japan and overseas in developing infrastructure to promote ownership of EVs.

Mitsubishi Motors expects to distribute, on a maintenance lease^*3 basis, some 1,400 i-MiEV models in fiscal 2009 principally to corporations and to local authorities. The company plans to start sales of i-MiEV to individuals in April 2010 and will start taking orders on the Mitsubishi Motors web site in late July of this year.

"Mitsubishi Motors Group Environmental Vision 2020" Roadmap Announced

—"Leading the EV era, towards a sustainable future"—

Tokyo, June 5, 2009 — Looking ahead to year 2020, the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the company, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) today announced the "Mitsubishi Motors Group Environmental Vision 2020" roadmap for its near-future environmental policy that maximizes the benefits offered by the EV* to Leading the EV era, towards a sustainable future."

The new environmental roadmap directs Mitsubishi Motors' commitment to the development of technology – spearheaded by EV technology – and to reducing the environmental impact of its business activities in general. As it points the Mitsubishi Motors group toward working with its customers and society at large in creating a pleasing and low-carbon society, the Environmental Vision 2020 also embodies the company's recently announced "Drive@earth" corporate tagline.

To achieve the MMC Group Environmental Vision 2020 roadmap's goals and targets Mitsubishi Motors will focus its resources in a 3-pronged approach focused on "Product & Technology," "Corporate Activities" and "Cooperation with Society".

1. Products & Technology
   As well as pushing ahead with the development of EV technologies, the company will seek to reduce environmental loads throughout the full lifecycle of its products in many ways including the improvement of fuel economy in internal combustion engine-powered vehicles and vehicle size and weight reduction.

   • Achieve a production volume at least 20% of which is comprised of EVs.
   • Cut global lineup CO₂ emissions by a weighted average of 50% over 2005.

2. Corporate activities
   Covering the full gamut of corporate activities from product planning through development, production, sales and after-sales services the company will step up its efforts to promote a more widespread use of the EV. In addition, the company will raise the level of its environmental protection activities throughout the Mitsubishi Motors group by setting new environmental standards for each field of corporate activity – from production to distribution, procurement, sales and office work.

   • Reduce per-vehicle CO₂ emissions during production by 20% over 2005 levels

3. Cooperation with society
   The company will work hand-in-hand with its customers and society at large in creating an infrastructure that supports the use of EVs. It will also step up its contribution to protecting the global environment by promoting more eco-friendly driving habits and through environmental conservation activities with local communities.

MITSUBISHI LANCER WINS AUTOPACIFIC 2009 VEHICLE SATISFACTION AWARD

Survey of Owners Rates Mitsubishi Lancer Top of its Class

CYPRESS, Calif., May 19, 2009 – For the second consecutive year, the Mitsubishi Lancer has won AutoPacific's prestigious Vehicle Satisfaction Award (VSA) in the compact car segment. Owners of 2009 Lancer rated their cars higher overall than did owners of other worthy competitors like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.

The versatile Lancer strongly scored in such categories as: image and exterior styling; safety; and vehicle dynamics, which include fun to drive, handling, braking, power and acceleration. According to AutoPacific, "Lancer is great to look at and a blast to drive."

AutoPacific's Vehicle Satisfaction Award (VSA) is an industry benchmark for objectively measuring how satisfied an owner is with their new car or light truck and reflects the opinions of consumers nationwide.

"Awards and accolades from the industry are nice, but the highest praise of all is when our Mitsubishi family of owners gives us top-in-class satisfaction marks," said Shinichi Kurihara, president and CEO of Mitsubishi Motors North America. "We're pleased people are finding that the Lancer delivers the right blend of performance, stunning design and value."

AutoPacific has conducted this industry research since 1997. "Vehicles that score highest in AutoPacific's Vehicle Satisfaction Awards have hit the mark delivering value and satisfaction with their buyers by performing well in 48 separate categories that measure the ownership experience," says AutoPacific President George Peterson.

The Mitsubishi Lancer is available in three levels of trim and driving dynamics - DE, ES and the sport-tuned GTS - starting at a price of $13,990. The GTS is equipped with a new 2.4-liter 168 horsepower aluminum DOHC MIVEC 4-cylinder engine. For further driving pleasure, there is the 237 horsepower Lancer Ralliart and the ultimate performance Lancer – the 291 horsepower Lancer Evolution. And for 2010, a Lancer Sportback version will be available.

MITSUBISHI MOTORS AND USASA ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP

Cypress, Calif., April 1, 2009 – United States of America Snowboard Association "USASA" and Mitsubishi Motors North America agreed to a partnership that recognizes Mitsubishi as the "Official Vehicle" for the 2009 USASA Nationals and 2009/2010 regional series. The Nationals will be held at Copper Mountain, Colorado, April 6 - 10, and is expected to attract more than 1,600 competitors and 10,000 spectators.

Mitsubishi will showcase its 2010 Lancer Sportback Ralliart at this year's Nationals and will be donating the versatile new vehicle to be used as the grand prize in the nationwide raffle of which the winner will drive it away.

"Snowboarding has been the fastest growing winter sport for several years and the USASA program is a natural fit for both Mitsubishi and the vehicle, with its superb all-weather performance handling," explained John Koenig, Mitsubishi Motors North America's executive vice president.

"We're pleased to support such a fine group of talented athletes and to help them further explore their personal goals and dreams."

"We are very excited to partner with Mitsubishi. Having the opportunity to raffle a car as cool as the 2010 Lancer Sportback Ralliart is awesome, it fits our demographic perfectly. I can't wait to drive one!"
— Jason Toutolmin-Executive Director, USASA

"During these challenging economic times, this is a perfect example of how two brands can collaborate together and create a platform that will ultimately result in the greater good of amateur snowboarding."
— Robert Graff-CEO, Graffy,Inc. graffyinc.com

Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski Takes First Drive in Mitsubishi i-MiEV

In celebration of Earth Day, Oregonians received a sneak peek at Mitsubishi's stylish four-passenger car – the i-MiEV (Mitsubishi Innovative Electric Vehicle) – when Mitsubishi brought the all-electric vehicle to Portland for a two-day visit as part of its zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) partnership with the state of Oregon and Portland General Electric (PGE).

Oregon Gov. Ted Kulongoski and Jim Piro, president and CEO of PGE, welcomed John Koenig, executive vice president of Mitsubishi Motors North America, to the city and to learn more about the all-new EV. After the press conference, Gov. Kulongoski took his first test drive of the all-electric vehicle from PGE's headquarters at the World Trade Center.

Powered by an advanced lithium-ion battery, the Mitsubishi i-MiEV will be one of the first of the new generation of lithium-ion-powered electric vehicles to be developed by a major automobile manufacturer that will be available to the public. Mitsubishi plans to deliver its i-MiEV to Oregon for fleet testing in late 2009.

PGE continues to partner with Oregon businesses and governments to roll out its network of charging stations to support these next-generation electric vehicles and plug-in electric vehicles.

Mitsubishi Motors North America is expanding its EV testing program, which began late last year with partnerships with Southern California Edison and Pacific Gas and Electric.

For more information, visit media.mitsubishicars.com.

Lancer Evolution named Best Performance Car under $50K by Motoring 2009

Prestigious award shared with arch rival as category results end in historic tie

CYPRESS, Calif., March 13, 2009 - Lancer Evolution, Mitsubishi's iconic high performance sports sedan has been named Best Performance Car under $50,000 by Motoring 2009, Canada's longest running automotive journalism television show. This prestigious award will be shared this year with the Subaru WRX STI, as the voting for the category of Best Performance Car produced a tie result for the first time in the 22 year history of the Motoring Car of the Year awards.

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is a one of a kind high performance sports sedan that represents the ultimate in road licensed Mitsubishi vehicles. The Evolution showcases several outstanding technologies, including a 291 hp, 2.0 litre DOHC, turbocharged-intercooled engine; Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC), a vehicle dynamic control network that provides an extraordinary level of control at individual wheels; and the brilliant 6speed Twin Clutch Sportronic® Shift Transmission (TC-SST). The TC-SST is an automated manual transmission capable of executing lightning quick gear changes with no drop off in engine power. It features both a console-mounted shifter and magnesium steering wheel paddle shifters and offers manual and fully automatic modes. By allowing drivers of all abilities to shift rapidly up and down through the gears, the TC-SST delivers satisfying acceleration while also returning superior fuel economy, due to its high efficiency power transmission mechanism.

IntelliChoice.com Announces Best Overall Value of the Year Awards for 2009 Cars, Trucks, Crossovers and SUVs

Winners Deliver Maximum Value with Lower Long-Term Costs for Smart Car Buyers

Mini Cooper Convertible and Prius Win Best Overall Car Awards; Ford and GM Hybrids Win Big

 CHICAGO AUTO SHOW, Chicago, IL, February 12, 2009 - IntelliChoice.com, the leading source for automotive ownership cost and value analysis, and part of media and marketing services company Source Interlink Companies, Inc. (NASDAQ: SORC), today announced the winners of its annual "Best Overall Value of the Year" awards for 2009 cars, trucks, crossovers and SUVs. The BOVY Awards, which evaluate every facet of what it costs to own and operate a vehicle over time, identify best-in-class vehicles that deliver outstanding value and lower than expected costs.

"The BOVY Awards are an essential guide at a time when most consumers are carefully watching their wallets," said James Bell, editor of IntelliChoice.com. "A vehicle's Cost of Ownership has gone from 'nice to know' to 'need to know' when comparing possible purchases. The BOVYs guide buyers on which car, truck or Crossover/SUV will deliver the most value for their money, especially when that vehicle ages and starts to lose that seductive new car smell."

In a year with 13 nameplates on the list, seven brands won multiple awards: Toyota (8), Chevrolet (5), Lexus (4), Honda (3), Volkswagen (2), Ford (2), and Audi (2). For the third consecutive year, IntelliChoice.com named the Toyota Prius the Best Overall Car Under $24,000, while the MINI Cooper Convertible won Best Overall Car Over $24,000.  GM and Toyota split the overall truck winners, with the GMC Sierra Crew Cab Hybrid taking home Best Truck Value Over $26,000, and the Toyota Tacoma Best Overall Truck Under $26,000.

2009 marks the third consecutive year that Toyota and GM have vied for the highest total number of IntelliChoice.com Best Overall Values of the Year.

"This is one of the most diverse lists of winners in our 22 year history," said Bell. "When a brand like Mitsubishi, which is traditionally known for sporty performance, is also delivering class-leading value, consumers win. Our 2009 roster also shows how truly hyper-competitive the market is, a trend that started well before the economy hit the brakes."

 Bell also noted the strong presence of hybrids on the 2009 BOVY list, with hybrids winning eight out of 31 segments. "Even more hybrids and alternative-fuel vehicles are coming online in 2009, including trucks and SUVs," said Bell.  "Hybrids have consistently offered excellent value along with their inherent fuel savings, so we are not surprised to find more on our list. It is also significant to note that the first 'Clean Tech' diesel, the Jetta TDI SportWagen, has joined this illustrious roster. A car that delivers 41 miles per gallon and extra utility is tough to beat, even in an environment with relatively higher diesel fuel costs."

Now in its 22nd year, IntelliChoice.com's "Best Overall Value of the Year" awards recognize vehicles whose cost of ownership is significantly lower than expected compared to competitive models in the same class.  The awards provide a quick reference to finding vehicles that promise the best return on investment.  A listing of this year's winners and additional information on the awards can be found online at IntelliChoice.com.

Mitsubishi i-MiEV Named World Green Car Finalist

CYPRESS, Calif., March 9, 2009 – Mitsubishi Motors' zero-emission urban transport solution, the pure-electric i-MiEV, was named today as one of the top three contenders in the prestigious World Green Car competition.

The innovative i-MiEV was selected from a list of five first-round finalists—pared from an original list of more than 20 cars—by an international panel of 59 automotive journalists. The winner will be announced at the New York International Auto Show on April 9, 2009.

Mitsubishi's combined expertise with automobiles and electronics strengthens its ability to create innovative transportation solutions. The i-MiEV is an important and timely example of what is possible from Mitsubishi going forward.

To be eligible for the 2009 World Green Car award, a vehicle had to be available in at least one major market during 2008. The vehicle could be in production or an experimental prototype with potential near-future application, provided that it was released for individual or press fleet evaluations in quantities of 10 or more during 2008. Tailpipe emissions, fuel consumption and use of a major advanced power plant technology (beyond engine componentry) aimed specifically at increasing the vehicle's environmental responsibility, were all taken into consideration.

Mitsubishi Receives "Best New Technology" Award for its Super All-Wheel Control System

CYPRESS, Calif., March 4, 2009 - Mitsubishi Motors continues to deliver uncompromising performance and industry-leading technology to consumers, capturing prestigious awards along the way. The latest honor comes from the independent Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), which recently named Mitsubishi's advanced Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system as the "Best New Technology" for 2009 and is standard on the acclaimed Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution.

"Mitsubishi's grasp of advanced all-wheel drive technology comes in part from many successful years in the Dakar and World Rally Championship where the demands far exceed those for a street car," said Mitsubishi Motors North America Executive Vice President of Operations John Koenig. "The best news is that so much of what we've learned from rally competition works to our advantage on the streets and circuit as well."

The Mitsubishi S-AWC system was chosen from a list of seven entries for the "Best New Technology" award, and judged by a panel of AJAC members with specific technical qualifications who regularly report on industry engineering and technical trends.

"The AJAC Best New Technology award was established to allow a group of technical writers to identify new and innovative technologies of significant benefit to the consumer," explained Canadian Car of the Year and Technology Award Chairman Richard Russell. "The significance of the Best New Technology award has been growing steadily over the past few years as has the degree of rigor to which entries are submitted."

The S-AWC is not just another all-wheel drive system, but an advanced vehicle dynamics control system that reads and reflects driver intent in real time. S-AWC regulates drive torque at each wheel by controlling a network of dynamic handling technologies, including Active Center Differential (ACD), Active Yaw Control (AYC) rear differential, Active Stability Control (ASC) and Sport ABS brakes.

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Powers into the Top Ten of the World Performance Car of the Year Awards

CYPRESS, Calif., February 5, 2009 - Mitsubishi Motors' iconic Lancer Evolution was named one of 10 finalists in the 2009 World Performance Car of the Year awards by a jury of 59 distinguished international automotive journalists. The finalists in the prestigious annual competition were selected from a group of 23 eligible vehicles from around the world.

"The Lancer Evolution is the only C-segment, four-door sedan that made the top 10 list," observed Dan Kuhnert, executive vice president of sales and marketing for Mitsubishi Motors North America. "The inclusion of the Lancer Evolution speaks volumes about its design, performance and value. The Lancer Evolution, and the entire Lancer family for that matter, has consistently earned its stripes as a rewarding, dependable and daily-driving performance sedan."

While Mitsubishi's Lancer family of sport sedans has proven performance credentials, their skills run deeper as evidenced by several important awards already on the shelf, including NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating, IIHS Top Safety Pick and CNET Editors' Choice. Moreover, J.D. Power and Associates recently ranked the Mitsubishi Lancer's factory-installed touch-screen navigation system as an industry leader in customer satisfaction (2008 Navigation Usage and Satisfaction StudySM). This marked the first time since the study's inception that a non-premium model ranked at the top.

The World Performance Car of the Year jury's next step is to re-evaluate the top 10 in preparation for a final round of voting in February. They will specifically rate each vehicle in terms of overall merit, value, safety, environmental responsibility, emotional appeal and significance. The top three finalists will be announced on March 9. The overall winner will be announced on April 9 at the 2009 New York International Auto Show.

Mitsubishi Motors Brings Versatile New Five-Door Sportback
To Award-Winning U.S. Lancer Lineup

Mitsubishi Motors North America today confirmed that the versatile all-new five-door Lancer Sportback will arrive in U.S. dealerships this summer for the 2010 model year. The Sportback will meld high performance and progressive design with an extra dose of utility to feed the most active lifestyles. The newest member of the multiple award-winning Lancer family is part of Mitsubishi's refocused efforts to introduce new models designed to meet evolving consumer demands. MSRP will be announced nearer to its summer on-sale date.

"American consumers are increasingly asking for fun, attractive, yet practical cars that complement their active and individual lifestyles," said Dan Kuhnert, executive vice president of sales and marketing for Mitsubishi Motors North America. "The Lancer Sportback answers those calls with a heady mix of performance, aggressive styling and the bonus of greatly increased utility, and will be available in two versions – the economical GTS and high-performance Ralliart. The five-door platform has considerable upside potential in the domestic market."

Mitsubishi designers created a dynamic new shape for the Sportback that is instantly recognizable as a Lancer from the front, with its signature "jet fighter" grille, while being completely fresh from the C-pillar rearward. The key element is a sleekly sloping rear door with integrated "roof wing" that creates a visually distinctive shape while making the Lancer significantly more versatile. The door extends down to the rear bumper to make loading cumbersome objects like surfboards, camping gear and bicycles as easy as possible.

The Sportback's overall length is just slightly longer than the Lancer four-door sedan, yet it gains substantial cargo-carrying flexibility—especially when the 60:40-split rear seats are folded flat. One-touch auto-folding rear seats make the newfound space almost effortless to configure. To add still more volume, the rear cargo-area floor of the GTS version can be cleverly lowered three inches, yielding 52.7 cubic ft. maximum cargo space. The roof will also conveniently accommodate a plug-in Thule™ Sport Rack for additional flexibility.

The Sportback's basic architecture, technical features and most optional equipment is shared with the Lancer sedan, a winner of several awards, including J.D. Power and Associates' 2008 Navigation Usage and Satisfaction Study, NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating, IIHS Top Safety Pick, CNET Editors' Choice (Lancer Evolution) and MSN Top-10 New Cars.

Mitsubishi Motors Manufacturing Honored

Mitsubishi Motors North America's Manufacturing Division was named "Company of the Year," at the 13th annual Urban Wheel Awards, sponsored by the noted auto enthusiast magazine, On Wheels. The event honors individuals and organizations for diversity in the automotive industry.

Manufacturing Division EVP & COO Jerry Berwanger and Sr. VP of Procurement & Supply Sandy Gillespie accepted the award on behalf of the Mitsubishi Motors family. Mitsubishi Motors recognizes the value of promoting diversity within the corporation and its consumer base.

Look for photo and video coverage of the awards ceremony at the On Wheels website soon.

Mitsubishi Motors Increases Exposure at ArenaBowl XXII

Mitsubishi Motors took over New Orleans during ArenaBowl XXII Championship Weekend on July 26-27, increasing fan interaction through various events and promotions, and handing out the keys to three new vehicles in the process.

Mitsubishi Motors presented Philadelphia Soul QB and ArenaBowl MVP Matt D'Orazio with the keys to a 2009 Solar Yellow Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT after he led his team to a 59-56 victory over the defending champion San Jose SaberCats, completing 26 of 43 pass attempts for 302 yards and seven touchdowns and rushing for a score.

Watching the game from the stands was 25-year-old Minnesota resident Ryan Boen, who received a 2009 Mitsubishi Galant Ralliart after winning the Grand Prize of the Mitsubishi Motors Drive to ArenaBowl Sweepstakes. Meanwhile, local Louisiana resident Robbie Rhodes won the Hole-in-One challenge at the ArenaBowl Golf Invitational, taking home a 2009 Solar Yellow Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT as well.

On July 26th, fans rocked out in the French Quarter at the Mitsubishi Motors ArenaBowl Extravaganza concert, as local musicians opened up the show for two-time Grammy winner Huey Lewis and The News. Mitsubishi Motors also held a child booster seat awareness event in conjunction with non-profit organization Kids Safety First at the AFL Kid Zone, offering parents important safety information and distributing coupons redeemable for free booster seats at local Mitsubishi car dealerships.

Mitsubishi Celebrates Owners Day

Mitsubishi Motors North America held its fourth annual Mitsubishi Owners Day celebration (MOD) at its Cypress Headquarters on July 19. It was a "do not miss" day packed with more than 1,500 people and 750 Mitsubishi cars, ranging from Eclipses, to Evolutions, to Lancers and everything in between.

There was more than enough to do and see for people of all ages, including the introduction of the 2009 Lancer Ralliart, which captivated event attendees and was coined as the highlight of the day. Other attractions included the Dyno Challenge, won by Ka Wong with his 2006 Evo MR with 482 WHP @31 psi, and the Best of Show competition, won by Archie Concon with his 2000 Mirage/Evo conversion.

The day also contributed to some positive causes. Working in conjunction with national non-profit organization Kids Safety First, and with the help of a certified child safety seat technician from the California Highway Patrol, MMNA donated 100 booster seats to families that participated in a safety demonstration. MOD also generated $2,300 in proceeds that were donated to the Cypress Police Department's DARE program.

Lancer Wins 2008 Vehicle Satisfaction Award

Owners praise the 2008 Lancer! Based on approval ratings ranging from vehicle operation, comfort, and safety to overall experience, Owners have recognized the 2008 Lancer with the Best in Class Vehicle Satisfaction Award for the compact segment, as surveyed by AutoPacific™. Scored entirely by Owner feedback, the '08 Lancer was accredited with high ratings from recent Lancer Owners.

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Named One Of Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000 By Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com

The Mitsubishi Lancer has been named a 2008 Coolest New Car Under $18,000 by the expert editors at Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. With versatility and technology becoming growing trends in the under-$18,000 segment, the next-generation 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer offers consumers an economic entry-level package that combines rally-inspired performance and handling features with cutting-edge in-car technology.

In choosing the 2008 list of Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000, the kbb.com editors used the same set of criteria that many consumers use in examining this category: safety, fuel economy, interior size, comfort, technology, the vehicle's fun-to-drive-factor, as well as the decidedly subjective "cool" factor. Kbb.com's editorial staff commented:

"The Mitsubishi Lancer's aggressive, rally-inspired looks belie a starting price of less than $15,000. The low cost of entry will leave many buyers with enough extra cash to add cool options like a hard-drive navigation system, an impressive premium audio system or perhaps a stylish spoiler."

The Mitsubishi Lancer is available in three levels of trim and driving dynamics - DE, ES and the sport-tuned GTS - starting at a price of $13,990. For the 2009 model year, the GTS is equipped with a new 2.4-liter 168-hp aluminum DOHC MIVEC 4-cylinder engine. For more information about the Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000, visit www.kbb.com/coolcars08.

Mitsubishi Motors Announces U.S. Electric Vehicle Fleet Test

Tetsuro Aikawa, Managing Director in charge of Product Development Group Headquarters, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, announced at the New York International Auto Show that fleet testing of the zero-emissions i-MiEV electric vehicle would begin in the U.S. this fall.

The i-MiEV electric prototype vehicle is powered by a durable 330-volt lithium-ion battery system located under the floor deck that is linked to a 47-kW permanent-magnet electric motor, promising up to 80 miles of driving on a single charge.

Also unveiled at the show was the i-MiEV Sport concept. The i-MiEV Sport concept is a coupe variation on the i-MiEV with a 'fastback' roofline, maximizing the sporty possibilities of the electric vehicle package.

Mitsubishi Motors Presents New 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse to Winner of Champs Sports "Bowl Bingo" Promotion

Mitsubishi Motors North America and Ocala Mitsubishi handed the keys to a new 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse over to Florida resident Maryann Goniea, after she was selected as the winner of the Champs Sports "Bowl Bingo" promotion, held during the Champs Sports Bowl last December.

News of the prize couldn't have come at a better time, as the Goniea family is still recovering from losing their home and vehicle to last February's deadly Central Florida tornadoes that slammed into their hometown of The Villages.

Ocala Mitsubishi General Manager Steve Lightbody and Randy Sterling, Regional Dealer Advertising Manager, MMNA, greeted the Goniea's as they arrived to pick up their new vehicle. In addition to the Grand Prize Mitsubishi Eclipse, the Goniea's also received a $250 gift card redeemable for apparel from Champs Sports retail stores.

The Champs Sports "Bowl Bingo" interactive promotion gave football fans a chance to fill out Bingo Cards that featured boxes with specific plays and happenings from the Champs Sports Bowl.

New Mitsubishi Motors Production and Concept Vehicles on Display at 2008 Auto Shows

Mitsubishi Motors introduced two new vehicles at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit with the reveal of the Lancer Ralliart, the latest addition to the Lancer family lineup of production vehicles, and the Concept-RA, a new sports coupe concept vehicle.

Powered by a new 2.0-liter DOHC MIVEC intercooled and turbocharged engine that boosts an estimated 235 horsepower, the Lancer Ralliart offers a medium between the Lancer GTS and the Lancer Evolution. Set to arrive at dealerships in the summer of 2008, the Lancer Ralliart will also feature a Twin Clutch-SST gearbox and a fulltime 4WD driveline with Active Center Differential (ACD).

The futuristic Concept-RA combines the performance features of a Lancer Evolution, such as Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) with new Active Steering and added Active Suspension Control, with the environmentally friendly technology of a clean diesel engine. The Concept-RA is also equipped with a Twin Clutch SST automated manual transmission and is supplemented by muscular wheel arches that house 21-inch wheels and an exposed engine cover that highlights the presence of the new powerful, clean diesel engine.

Mitsubishi Motors North America Donates D.A.R.E. Car to Local Police Department

Cypress, CA-based Mitsubishi Motors North America continued its collaboration with the Cypress Police Department with a donation of a 2008 Lancer at the Cypress City Council Meeting on January 28th.

The Lancer will be used as a D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) vehicle to help supplement the police department's educational programs and community efforts to keep kids off illegal drugs, decrease membership in gangs, and detour violent behavior in kids. The D.A.R.E. Lancer will be used in various programs in the Cypress/Savannah Elementary School District, including the spring D.A.R.E. graduations and the Cypress Community Festival 5 & 10 K Run/Walk on Saturday, July 26th.

Over the course of its 15-year relationship with the Cypress Police Department, MMNA has made several vehicle- and proceed-donations in support of various community initiatives.

Mitsubishi Motors and Kids Safety First Extend National Booster Seat Awareness Initiative to Various Auto Shows

On January 13, Mitsubishi Motors North America kicked off its 2008 support of the Kids Safety First child booster seat awareness program with a demonstration and free booster seat certificate giveaway at the Silicon Valley Auto Show in San Jose, California.

Certified car seat technicians from the San Jose Police Department were on hand to conduct demonstrations, while Arena Football League MVP and San Jose SaberCats QB Mark Grieb contributed to the effort by signing autographs. Auto show attendees that participated in the demonstrations received free booster seat certificates redeemable at three local Mitsubishi dealerships.

MMNA and Kids Safety First will continue this effort and hold similar events in upcoming 2008 auto shows in Philadelphia, Chicago, Dallas, Atlanta and other markets.

Mitsubishi Motors Renews Sponsorship with the Arena Football League; Presents San Jose QB Grieb with New Outlander

Mitsubishi Motors North America has renewed as the Official Automobile Manufacturer of the Arena Football League's 2008 regular season and will become the Exclusive Automobile Manufacturer of the 2008 AFL playoffs.

New this year is the AFL-themed interactive display being showcased at select auto shows in 2008, including Philadelphia, Chicago, Cleveland and Dallas, and AFL player appearances at select shows. The display will allow visitors to pose for a picture as if they were an AFL player or with a specific team jersey, and give consumers a chance to download their photo at www.MitsubishiFans.com.

MMNA will again present the ArenaBowl Most Valuable Player with a new Mitsubishi automobile. After leading his team to a 55-33 over the Columbus Destroyers and being named MVP last July, San Jose SaberCats quarterback Mark Grieb was presented with a new Outlander at Serramonte Mitsubishi in Colma, CA.

The 2008 Dakar Cancelled by the Organisers for Security-Related Reasons

The organisers of the 2008 Dakar, Amaury Sport Organisation (A.S.O.), today confirmed at a press conference in Lisbon that the decision had been taken to cancel this year's rally which was due to start from the Portuguese capital tomorrow morning, Saturday, January 5.

An official statement issued by A.S.O. stated that: "After different exchanges with the French government - in particular the Ministry for Foreign Affairs - , and based on their firm recommendations, the organisers of the Dakar have taken the decision to cancel the 2008 edition of the rally…"

The statement referred to "direct threats launched directly against the race", saying that "no other decision but the cancellation of the sporting event could be taken by A.S.O.".

"A.S.O.'s first responsibility," it continued, "is to guarantee the safety of all: that of the populations in the countries visited, of the amateur and professional competitors, of the technical assistance personnel, of the journalists, partners and rally collaborators. A.S.O. therefore reaffirms that the choice of security is not, has never been and will never be a subject of compromise at the heart of the Dakar rally."

The Repsol Mitsubishi Ralliart Team, Valeo, BFGoodrich and all its partners fully respect the decision announced today by A.S.O. "It goes without saying that it is a huge shame that the 30th edition of the Dakar will not take place," declared Team Director Dominique Serieys. "After months of hard work and preparation, we were obviously looking forward to the challenge of building on our record of 13 Dakar victories with the Pajero/Montero which has won the last seven events. We also trust that the support for Africa initiatives in which we first became involved last year will continue to bear fruit. We had the privilege of making a financial contribution to SOS Sahel International yesterday here in Lisbon, and we were also due to present a cheque to the Dakar Solidario Fundation. This ceremony will go ahead as planned."

Mitsubishi Outlander Recognized by DogCars.com

DogCars.com has named the Mitsubishi Outlander winner of the 2007 DogCar of the Year Award for Best Small-Sized SUV.

Created by Good Morning America veterinarian Dr. Marty Becker and syndicated columnist Gina Spadafori to offer a car-buying resource for dog-lovers, DogCars.com made the announcement as part of its first-ever DogCars of the Year awards. The "ample, well-designed dog space", "Labrador Black Pearl color", and "fun and comfortable" features secured the victory for the Outlander.

Based on DogCars.com's rating system that accounts for elements such as cargo space, off-road performance and easily removable seats, the Mitsubishi Outlander received a five-paw rating.

Mitsubishi Raider Finishes Third in Grueling 2007 SCORE Baja 1000

Mitsubishi Motorsports driver Dan Fresh and the Team Mitsubishi/DXR Racing Raider completed yet another impressive performance at the prestigious 2007 SCORE Baja 1000 off-road race in November, finishing third in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. In its 40th year, the Baja 1000 saw a near-record 424 vehicles compete in 34 Pro and Sportsman classes, ranging from cars and trucks to motorcycles and ATVs.

Fresh, winner of the 2006 Baja 1000 in the Stock Mini class, was the only solo driver in his class this year, completing a grueling 1,296-mile course that began in Ensenada on November 13th over an exhausting 42.5 hours. In a course that proved to be more difficult than last year's 1,047-mile excursion, the Team Mitsubishi/DXR Racing Raider unofficially crossed the finish line at 7:21:05 AM on November 15th.

As a testament to the Raider's toughness, the only major service required throughout the two days was changing out a ball joint as a precaution.

Legendary Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Wins Popular Mechanics Automotive Excellence Award in the Fun to Drive Category

Popular Mechanics announced the winners of its 2008 Automotive Excellence Awards in its December '07 issue, naming the all-new Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution the most fun to drive vehicle on the road. The magazine's automotive editors selected the Evolution for the Fun to Drive award based on its "sporty, fast and agile" nature with a "refined, more sophisticated look," dubbing the vehicle "a thrill to drive."

The next-generation Lancer Evolution features several new updates that set it apart from its predecessors, including an all-new 295-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and new six-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission. The Evolution also comes available with the Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) dynamic handling system, which regulates drive torque at each wheel by controlling a network of dynamic technologies: Active Center Differential (ACD) 4-wheel drive, Active Yaw Control (AYC) rear differential, Active Stability Control (ASC) and Sport ABS brakes.

Each year, Popular Mechanics' automotive editors drive more than 100 new cars, trucks and sport-utility vehicles to nominate the top new models in ten specific categories. The award was presented to Mike Evanoff, Manager of Product Strategy for Mitsubishi Motors North America during a ceremony at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show on November 14th.