Mitsubishi TETRA

Mitsubishi TETRA

Manufacturer	Mitsubishi Motors
Production	1997
Class	Concept car
Body style	5-door SUV
Layout	Front engine, 4WD
Engine	3.0 L GDI V6
Transmission	5-speed semi-auto
Length	4,505 mm (177.4 in)
Width	1,855 mm (73.0 in)
Height	1,645 mm (64.8 in)
Related	Mitsubishi Legnum

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]

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 semi-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

1. ^ "Mitsubishi Motors Exhibits HSR-VI Advanced Car & Technas Concept Car At 57th Frankfurt Motor Show" (Press release). Mitsubishi Motors. August 29, 1997. http://media.mitsubishi-motors.com/pressrelease/e/corporate/detail338.html. 
2. ^ ^{a b c d e} "Mitsubishi Motors 32nd Tokyo Motor Show Exhibits" (Press release). Mitsubishi Motors. October 15, 1997. http://media.mitsubishi-motors.com/pressrelease/e/corporate/detail409.html. 
3. ^ "RISE: Passive Safety that reliably protects occupants in extreme circumstances". Mitsubishi Motors. http://www.mitsubishi-motors.com/corporate/about_us/technology/safety/e/rise.html.