mitsubishi

Automakers show muscle in New York

With all the emphasis on eco-friendly cars at recent auto shows, we didn't expect to see so many performance cars in New York.

But many automakers had souped-up versions of existing models on display, giving driving enthusiasts something to enjoy. Mercedes-Benz had an AMG version of its E-class and BMW made the X6 into an M. VW launched the new GTI and Nissan NISMO'd its 370Z. Honda even showed up with a Mugen-equipped Fit.

Man's best friend gets a car

Honda and Mitsubishi showed off dog-friendly concept cars at the 2009 New York auto show. The Honda version, built on its Element model, is slated to be offered as a trim option this fall. Honda of North America got the idea for the concept after the pet-friendly Honda WOW was shown at the Tokyo auto show. This concept generated so much interest in the U.S. that Honda developed the idea of making an Element specifically for pet-owners. Mitsubishi had a less-developed concept on display built in its Outlander SUV.

Mitsubishi LCDs get 16 speakers apiece

Update 12/21/2009: Since this product preview was written, CNET has reviewed the highest-end member of Mitsubishi's Unisen line, the LT-249 series. It features 2 more speakers than the 151 and 153 series described below, and also includes a few other enhancements (namely support for Vudu), but we still expect its audio and video quality to be very similar to the step-down models. For more information, check out the full review of the Mitsubishi LT-249 series.

Not to be outdone by LCD TV makers touting LED backlights, 240Hz refresh rates, and stratospheric prices, Mitsubishi brings its own twist to the game of HDTV step-up-oneupsmanship with its Unisen models, each of which sports a new 16-speaker audio system.

Nestled below the pursed lips of the simulated image above, you'll find 16 speakers, an array that even when turned off should impress visitors to your living room.

When turned on, according to Mitsubishi, the "intelligent speakers...direct perfectly balanced audio waves beside and behind you to reproduce 5.1 surround sound and create an unprecedented depth of sound experience." We haven't tested the system, but on paper it sounds a lot like the principle employed by virtual surround speakers like the Polk Surround Bar.

If Unisen performs as well as such speaker systems, it will certainly represent the best TV sound we've ever heard. The question, of course, is whether it's worth it. The Polk bar above costs about $1,000, and less expensive options like the Zvox 325 ($299) are also available that do a solid job of simulating surround.

Then there's the myriad true surround systems out there with actual rear speakers--although they're not direct competitors to Unisen, since the biggest benefit of simulated surround is lack of rear speakers, wires, etc.

Mitsubishi's three series of Unisen models include 40-, 46-, and 52-inch sizes, and the least expensive, the 40-inch LT-40151, costs a suggested retail price of $1,799. Compared with competing 120Hz LCDs, like Samsung's LN40B650 ($1699) or Sony's KDL-40V5100 ($1499), that's not a massive premium.

On the surface, Mitsubishi's new sets look pretty appealing for people who want better sound from their TVs, and perhaps the company's picture quality has improved over last year's models, such as the LT-46148. We'll know more when we can get one in for review.

All of Mitsubishi's Unisen models will be available in May. Pricing and step-up details follow.… Read more

Mitsubishi keeps DLP alive with 2009 models

Rear-projection HDTVs have been waning in popularity with the waxing of flat-panel plasmas and LCDs, but Mitsubishi's new lineup of DLP models proves that the technology will be available in stores for at least another year.

In 2008, Samsung and Mitsubishi were the only two companies selling rear-projection behemoths and, due to lack of demand, we only reviewed one model from each company: the Samsung HL61A750 and the Mitsubishi WD-65735.

The LED-powered Samsung was clearly better, but that company has not announced any new DLP models for 2009, although it will continue to sell its 2008 models. I asked Samsung's reps last week about the company's DLP plans but they refused to provide any information, and I have a hunch they won't announce any new models this year, or ever.

That leaves the market for gigantic-screen HDTVs wide open for Mitsubishi. DLP-based models are generally less expensive and more efficient than LCDs or plasmas of a similar screen size, and despite sagging sales, rear-projection may still have legs, especially in a down economy. Mitsubishi's betting it does, and the price is right. It's least expensive 2009 model, the 60-inch WD-60737, lists at $1,500--the same as the 61-inch Samsung commands at Best Buy today and a lot less than any plasma or LCD in that size range.

Mitsubishi announced two new series of big screens, starting at 60 inches and going up to a new size peak: a colossal 82 inches.… Read more

Home Theatre Store has the Mitsubishi WD-73833 73" Diamond 833 Series 1080P DLP HDTV for $2499.88, after $1799.12 savings, plus free shipping.

Save $1799.12 on the Mitsubishi WD-73833 73" Diamond 833 Series 1080P DLP HDTV from Home Theatre Store >> Regular price is $4299 >> Sale price is $2499.88 >> Savings $1799.12 (41.85%) >> Click here for deal

Mitsubishi to send all-electric iMievs to Monaco

Formerly a dark horse, Mitsubishi appears to be taking the lead in the race to electrify. The Japanese automaker is starting sales this July of the all-electric iMiev in Japan, and signed this week a Memorandum of Understanding with the Principality of Monaco to receive a fleet of iMiev by the end of the year.

The Memorandum signified the Principalities intention to become a testing ground for the electric vehicle, and will be used by community services and businesses. Mitsubishi is gaining traction with other countries that are eager to jump on the (electric) bandwagon, and is testing the car … Read more

2009 Mitsubishi Outlander XLS: close, but no cigar (review)

Having just finished reviewing the 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander, I find my interest piqued by two facts.

This first is that I missed an opportunity to work in a reference to the Outlander film--an epic space-monster-versus-Vikings movie.

Secondly, and most importantly, I'm surprised at how a few poorly executed elements can combine to spoil one's experience with a vehicle.

At first, I was impressed by the Outlander's straight line acceleration and quick shifting automatic transmission. The leather steering wheel and magnesium paddle shifters felt good in my hands. I was even enjoying the firm suspension, and then the … Read more

Mitsubishi's iMiev electric car steps closer to production (photos)

Although Mitsubishi is testing the iMiev electric car in fleets throughout the world, official production isn't intended to start until 2010. To meet its production goals, Mitsubishi is adapting the car to different world markets. At the Geneva auto show, Mitsubishi showed off a prototype that meets European legal requirements. It also features a refinement necessary for the U.S. introduction: left-hand drive. Along with the iMiev, Mitsubishi showed off a sport version concept with a more powerful motor.

Electric partnerships bloom at Geneva Motor Show

RUF Automobile and Siemens Corporate Technology, the research arm of Siemens, debuted their all electric car concept at the Geneva Motor Show this week.

The Greenster, like its name suggests, is designed to look like a roadster vehicle of yesteryear complete with plaid seats. But the tech speaks to the 2000's interest in green technology.

Siemens is providing technology for the car's power train which includes the motor/generator, the power electronics, and the interface with the car's battery.

The Greenster concept car displayed at the Geneva Motor Show had only one motor. But the Pfaffenhausen, Germany-based … Read more