2007 Mitsubishi 380 VRX Series III review

By Alborz Fallah | November 06th, 2007

2007 Mitsubishi 380 VRX Series III Review

The recently released Series III has made an already appealing package, even better.

CarAdvice Rating:

Recommended Retail Price: $38,990 – five-speed auto

Options fitted: Metallic Paint $350, Sunroof $2,000

- by Alborz Fallah

If you’ve bought a base model Commodore or Falcon in the last 12 months, I want you to tell me why. Apart from the rear-wheel-drive vs front-wheel-drive argument, you won’t be able to convince me the other two are any better than Mitsubishi Australia’s only child.

With the shrinking market for large family cars, Mitsubishi Australia – with a limited budget – has produced arguably the best car in the segment. Great reviews followed, but sales didn’t eventuate as expected. So Mitsubishi has tried again, with the Series III.

The Series III update includes a rework of the car’s interior appointments, multiple external styling updates and specification upgrades.

After driving the 380 VRX around Brisbane for a week, I really do wonder why Mitsubishi, with the best warranty in the business, is struggling. Compared to the current VE Commodore, BF MKII Falcon and the Toyota Aurion, you would be hard pressed dismissing the Mitsu as inferior.

Powered by a 3.8-litre 24-valve SOHC MPI V6 engine which manages 175kW of power (at 5250 RPM) and 343Nm of torque (at 4000 RPM), the 380 is behind its competitors as far as power goes (Toyota Aurion – 200kW, Holden Commodore – 180kW, Ford Falcon – 190kW), not that you would notice it. It goes from 0-100km/h in just 7.6 seconds, ahead of the base model Commodore and Falcon, losing out to the 200kW Aurion by just 0.2 of a second.

Before we get to the drive, let me tell you where the 380 actually sits. Starting from just $28,990 for the ES manual sedan, the 380 undercuts the competition considerably. To be fair, we’ll compare the entry model automatic ES Sedan which retails for $30,990 to its entry model auto competitors.

The ES auto is $4,000 cheaper than the Aurion AT-X, $5,000 cheaper than the Falcon XT and $3,500 cheaper than the VE Commodore Omega. Better yet, the auto ES makes use of a five-speed INVECS II “Smart Logic” automatic transmission with Sports mode, this is compared to the Falcon XT and Commodore Omega’s dinosaur four-speed gearbox (the Aurion betters the 380 with a six-speed sequential auto).

The 380 also wins on standard equipment across the range with standard dual front and side SRS airbags, ABS brake system with EBD, automatic climate control air-conditioning, power windows and mirrors, remote central locking, cruise control, power adjustable driver’s seat and steering wheel audio controls.

Power options aside, the dual front and side SRS airbags are both an option on the Falcon and Commodore. The 380 ES also comes standard with 16” alloys while others will charge you even more. I can go on and on pointing out why the 380 is better on paper than its competitors, but there has to be something about the car that reflects the sales figures!

Just like Volvos, Mitsubishis had never inspired me (bar the Evo). The 380 was no different, it is after all, a generic family car. But after spending almost 2 months behind the wheel of the entire Mitsubishi lineup, I am starting to think a little differently. One broke down on the highway, one made me question my sexuality and one ended up with its own personalised photo, courtesy of Queensland police.

So why is it then that out of the entire Mitsubishi lineup, the only car that really surprised me was the 380? Some take this for granted, but Mitsubishi has been building cars as far back as 1917 and they have learnt a thing or two in the process. My test vehicle was an auto 380 VRX ($38,990), the sporty variant.

Driving out of Mitsubishi HQ and heading for Mt Glorious, one thing became obvious, the perception that the 380 is an inferior car is completely unjustified.

From corner to corner, the grip from the 17” wheels is incredible, with little sign of torque steer. Mitsubishi’s TCL system combined with the cars well designed chassis proved to be a joy going up the mountain. The five-speed gearbox works beautifully in both D and Sports mode. Gear shifts are instant and seamless.

I can go on and on about the great handling characteristics of this car, and I will. Before I do though, let me just get to the elephant in the room. Yes, this is a front-wheel-drive, and no you can’t ignore that when you go shopping for a family car. But here is the thing, I’ll be the first to admit a proper driver’s car needs to be either rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive, but the 380 is essentially a family car, and given its fantastic TCL system, you will have a very hard time trying to lose control.

Even around the hardest bends, comfort is not sacrificed. With minimal body roll from one corner to another, the VRX’s sports seats hold you tight. There is none of that ‘hold on to the steering wheel’ factor in this car.

As far as ‘the drive’ went, the 380 left me with a desire to charge up the mountain over and over again, unlike the TRD Aurion, which made me get life insurance. It’s hard to fathom the 380 being a bit of a driver’s car, but it is.

From the outside, you can argue either way, while the 380 is designed to be a rather inoffensive and sedate car to appeal to the masses – a move away from the horrid last-generation Magna it replaced – it can still be better.

Compared to the Aurion and the VE Commodore, the 380 looks a tad outdated. The front lights and grille don’t really do the car justice, but the VRX badge and the sexy 17” wheels set it apart. As for the rear, it’s a bit of a hit and miss. For a car which Mitsubishi Australia has put its life and soul into, it could do with a little more personality.

The interior is modern yet simple. There is a small LCD screen which shows everything from aircon to audio settings, this is a good and bad thing, I for one prefer my audio system separate to the aircon.

The instrument cluster is nothing to show your friends and for the VRX model I would have expected a little more sportiness. The rear seats will comfortably sit three adults with sufficient leg room, but the lack of 60:40 split is a let down. The boot is good for 437 litres.

The VRX can do with sport pedals and something to replace the plastic gear stick, but as far as interior finish goes, there is no sign of the cheap and nasty Mitsubishi interiors of the past. Overall interior refinement compares favourably with its rivals.

As a model range, the 380 wins with high levels of standard equipment, great entry price and Mitsubishi’s unbeatable warranty, but for the VRX variant, there are a few things to consider.

Toyota’s Aurion Sportivo SX6 is $500 cheaper than the VRX, the six-speed auto Falcon XR6 retails for $1,000 more and the five-speed auto VE Commodore SV6 sits a further $1,000 above the Falcon, so the choice is not as easy as it seems.

If you were going for an entry model family car, there is no question the 380 ES is the pick, your only dilemma would be lack of ESC (which is the 380′s weakest link), but once you start going up towards the VRX price, the Mitsu starts to lose a bit of its appeal.

Given the current Falcon is about to be replaced, the choice is between the Aurion, 380 and Commodore and if reliability is a big deal, it comes down to the two Japanese rivals. From here its a personal choice. The Aurion lacks some soul and fails to inspire, but it is arguably the better built car overall, in saying that, I’d still buy the 380.

If you’re like most traditional buyers and are quick to dismiss the front-wheel-drive 380, do yourself a favour and walk into your local Mitsubishi dealer and prepare to be surprised, at the very least, you’ll have the gratification of telling me I was wrong. But I doubt it.

Mitsubishi 380 Spec Sheet

ENGINE

3.8 litre V6, SOHC 24-valve with roller rockers and auto lash adjustersBore x stroke 95mm x 90mm
Capacity 3828cm3
Compression ratio 10.0:1
Fuel system Electronically controlled multi-point injection

PERFORMANCE

Power (DIN) 175kW @ 5250rpmTorque (DIN) 343Nm @ 4000rpm

FUEL TANK CAPACITY

67 litres

FUEL CONSUMPTION l/100km (ADR 81/01)

5-speed manual 11.45-speed auto 10.8

TRANSMISSION

Manual transmission 5-speed, all synchromesh, fl oor shiftAuto transmission 5-speed INVECS II ‘Smart Logic’ automatic transmission with ‘Sports Mode’ sequential gearshift

BRAKES

Power-assisted 4-wheel discs Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
Front 294mm x 28mm vented discs with twin piston calipers
Rear 302mm x 18mm vented discs with single piston calipers

SUSPENSION

Mitsubishi’s Body Optimised Suspension (MBOS) system.Front Independent MacPherson strut with coil springs, lower A-arm and anti-sway bar Rear Independent low mount multi-link with upper and lower control arms, coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers and anti-sway bar

STEERING

Type Power-assisted rack and pinion

TURNING CIRCLE (m)

11.2

Going Ford, Is The Going Thing

Shame about the 380′s popularity. Are Mitsu going to bring out a new one soon?
http://www.importjap.com/blog ImportJap

It’s SOHC? I thought it was a DOHC or MIVEC power plant. Had a bad run with SOHC engines.

I drove a Series II of these and thought the auto was rather excellent, but the one I drove had serious issues with interior quality. Maybe it was a Friday car. I think the styling lets the package down; it’s based on the US Galant – hopefully the next will follow Mitsu’s new design trends ala the Concept ZT and Evo.

Also, second to last page ‘courtesy’ not ‘curtsey’. Ok, I know I keep bringing you guys up on spelling but it does annoy me.
AndrewC

I have just been down a very similar track as you Alborz after being loaned a 380 when the normal work hack decided to call it quits in the electrical dept. Oh yeah that was an Aussie built car as well, problem is it was out of warranty by 3 months, if it had been a Mitsu it would have still been covered. Never having been a fan of the entry level work hack, I was very surprised by the comparison between it and the 380, two totally different manufacturers and RWD vs FWD, the fit and finish on the 380 leaves the work hack for dead, both have done similar mileages and driven in a sedate manner befitting my role at work when driving, the 380 actually felt like a much better ride. Considering the points that the 380 has going for it over the local stuff on offer, I can only conclude that the media driven hype about Mitsubishi’s market fragility have scared many potential buyers. You used this phrase in your review ” Yes, this is a front-wheel-drive, and no you can’t ignore that when you go shopping for a family car.”, I think that sums it up, its a great car for the family to go shopping in.I really had to laugh at one of the Mitsu models leading you to question your sexuality Alborz, the only time I have ever considered how my masculinity would be perceived was in a car as well, but many years ago.
Driving-Fords-Is-like-XXX

It is DOHC, because it has 24 valves. If it was SOHC it’ll have 12 valves.

matt

idiot

http://www.importjap.com/blog ImportJap

Yeah Driving Fords, that’s what I thought – I haven’t heard of a 24 valve SOHC as big as 3.8L – but apparently it actually is SOHC.
Staggers

“…given its fantastic ESC system…” I thought the 380 is not available with ESC, even as an option. It only comes with traction control.
Richo

yes it can be 24 valve SOHC, my 3.5ltr magna is a SOHC engine with 24 valves. The 380 is most definetly a SOHC engine, just like the magna before it (the 380′s engine is a development of the magna’s engine, hence the same specification)
Richo

yes it can be 24 valve SOHC, my 3.5ltr magna is a SOHC engine with 24 valves. The 380 is most definetly a SOHC engine, just like the magna before it (the 380\’s engine is a development of the magna\’s engine, hence the same specification)
Richo

now why did that post go in twice? anyway i just looked it up on the mitsubishi website and the redbook website, its definetly a SOHC motor. The one cam simply actuates 4 valves per cylinder, its actually quite simple really, they just link two valves together so that when one of them is pushed by the camshaft, the other goes down with it
http://www.importjap.com/blog ImportJap

Yeah figured that was the case. It’s pretty torquey too.
Richo

thought i’d just throw my two bobs worth in on the car aswell. I have driven 2 of these babies since they where released (both where series 1′s, i dont know how relevant that is) and the interiors i found to be quite dissapointing. Fortunately that was the only dissapointment tho, because although boring and a bit dated looking, it is very comfortable, handles really nice, goes like stink (i couldnt believe it only has 175kw, it feels faster then either commodore or falcon) and its just generally a really good car. Pity about the styling…
Tony

The 380 series 111 is a joy to drive and sadly underrated. If you’re in the market for a family size car, do yourself a favour and test drive it. You’ll have more fun in the Mitsu that you would in the base model Falcon, Commy or Camry. I guarantee it!
Plutonus

The back still is ugly as sin.
Going Ford, Is The Going Thing

There should be a whole new 380 soon, because this body is getting old now ..and yes, didn’t as sell as they wanted it to.
Nick

They are doing a major facelift mid next year and will give it 6 airbags and ESC. I quite like the styling, it is conservative but it isn’t dating. The VE will date like sin. The clear tail lights on the s2 VR-X and GT are much better. The interior is easily as good as the VE and build quality wise leagues ahead. It is an amazing car to drive and for my money, mitsus have easily been the most reliable cars we’ve ever had. Our 1990 minbus never had even the slightest quibble over 15 yrs and we ran 200,000ks up on an 02 TJ Magna with no worries, the 380s interior plastics are unfortunately not as solid as the Magnas. The Magna is also evidence to the fact that Mitsus don’t date…a 96 Magna looks a hell of a lot better than the 96 Comms and Falcons!

I don’t think, like the reviewer, that mitsu interiors were ever crap (except around 99-02 when they became tired) and even Wheels (who hates Mitsu usually-doesn’t stump up as much money to Wheels as Holden) reckons you’d be hard pushed telling the FWD 380 from the RWD VE.

BUY IT!!!!!!! DAMN YOU BUY IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Nick

And PS the SOHC 380 engine, which is Aussie designed, won an engineering excellence awards for how simple yet advanced it is. In every way this car is better than its rivals! And even just 4airbags and no ESC it scores ahead of VE on safety and just a few points below Aurion. When it is updated next yr it will become 5 star. It is also the most secure-hard to steal, enter-the aurion was by far the worst. It is also greener than the holden and ford, more fuel efficient and depreciates less. Mitsubishis are just great cars, and the new Lancer too looks a treat as is the Colt…we love our 04 one. It is just a cut above.
Steven A

Considering the limited budget MMAL had ( $600 milllion )they have done a brilliant job with the 380 but the donor vehicle
( US Mitsubishi Galant ) wasnt an ideal starting point.
Also the omitted MIVEC Engine, Curtain Air Bags and Stability Control are a major NO,NO for this vehicle in these modern times.
Also when power outputs are quoted everyone seems to only consider the Kilowatt output and not the more important Torque figures where the 380 has more than Aurion & Commodore but not the bigger capacity Falcon.
Ive been a Mitsubishi vehicle owner since the 80′s and in my experience they are definately bloody good cars and I “never” had a problem.
Mid next year the 380 will get a major facelift and all these issues’s are expected to be addressed, including a less conservative and more new “Lancer” look too.
Unfortunately in Australia we dont support the underdog, instead we just keep booting into him, some media outlets have added to MMAL problems with fabricated ongoing reports about the Adelaide operations which I wont comment on here.
This vehicle has continued the Magna/Verada multi-award winning ways but people seem to have conveniently forgotten that too.
Dont dismiss the 380, drive it and you’ll wonder why you didnt drive it sooner.
Congratulations to the Aussie engineers and their suport teams in South Australia.
Todd

The lack of stability control would be a reason the 380 wouldn’t make it onto my large car preference list.
http://. Naughtyius Maximus

The look of hideous lights and weirdo back lights is enough to say – UGLY but then again not much better in Magna either. Shame as only some change needed to pen it classier
Steve

It’s funny. Lack of driver aids are what I look for in a car.

On a more topical note, I don’t like Mitsubishi, but I think they are trying super hard to get back on top of things in Australai. Sadly, I’d rather buy a Hyundai due to Mitsubishi’s image. Mainly how everyone I know has had a shocking experience with any one of their models. Word of mouth is the best form of advertising and the words got to me.

But saying all that, dispite my dislike for anything (not just cars) doesn’t means I don’t appreciate the work that goes into it.

I hate Honda motorcycles, but I wouldn’t say they’re crap. They are excellent machines. I just don’t like them.

steve
Lachlan

JUST TO REFRESH EVERYONES MEMORY THIS FANTASTIC CAR DID WIN THE 2005 CAR OF THE YEAR, WHICH I THINK DESERVES A HOUNERABLE MENTION. WHETHER OR NOT MITSU DECIDE TO CALL NEXT YEARS UP DATE SERIES 4 OR A NEW MODEL IS UNCERTAIN, BUT IT WILL FEATURE ESC WHICH IS CURRENTLY IN TESTING!
http://Jeep John

The main problem why the 380 hasn’t sold well is 2 fold.
1. consistent negative reports that MMAL will close Australian operations, coupled with what happened to them in Japan, recall wise, hurt BIG time

2. Exterior Styling – the 380 was destined for failure from the start as the last Magna was a real ugly car. The investment in the Olivier Boulay design (worldwide) failed and was unfortunately carried over into the 380 due to having to lock in model designs. Although toned down its still an ugly front.

If the 380 could be given a nip / tuck and shake the spectre of closure, they’de have better sales, although the shrinking segment also hasn’t and doesn’t help
Bavarian Missile

Just the Word Magna makes me cringe , I guess I would have a drive of it if I was in the market for a car in that price bracket. May surprise me….but I agree with NM………they still lack looks!
Steve

Who’s car of the year did it win? Certainly not mine. If you’re thinking wheels…. hahaha.

Now, this is my own opinion on Wheels magazine and as such expressed by me, nothing to do with this great website…. Wheels magazine should be renamed to Ford and Holden Fanboy Magazine.

I’m surprised they considered another manufacturer to be given the trophy.

Though, I get your point. For it to be called COTY, it would have to be special. And I wouldn’t doubt it. Unfortunately the looks of a car have a lot to do with the purchase of the car. Most people don’t care about if it’s got a 4Sp Slush-O-Matic gearbox or a 6Sp manual. Or a 0-100 time of under 10 seconds. Some care, most don’t.

Unfortunately (and I find this is true, again… in my opinion) that cars that don’t look appealing tend to age better. The cars that look super hot now, will look like crap is 10 years. Generally their car design is based on what’s in fashion (Not talking clothing here). Not everyone is walking around with tight flares and an afro listening to LP’s anymore… well some of us still are.

The older Magnas still look okay. An original Mini cooper still looks okay. A VN Commodore looks like crap. The design of that car is fugly. But it looked good at the time.

Fortunately there are buyers like me out there that take looks into consideration last. For I prefer cars from the Froggies over in France. I prefer the handling, power is not so important but it’s nice if I have some. I just like not having to slow down for corners… saying that, I like my brakes to work too :p

You could say all cars do this. That’s like saying all watches tell the time, and all TV’s display a show. But at the end of the day I want something that turns corners and has good torque for effortless travel. I want something to tell me the correct time and not to fall back 5 minutes ever 3 and a half weeks. I want a TV thta displays a good image on the screen, not some half washed out picture that you can only see when you sit directly in front of it.

At the end of the day no car is perfect, and three things make all the difference. Looks, price, and if you’re willing to stretch a few grand more for some added extras that will make a good car of your choice better or just go for a different make and model.

I’ve been in the new car market for 10 months now. Why so long? Nothing hase appealed to me, and my favourite manufacturer is releasing a now model soon. But the funny thing is, I have driven ever single car in my price range, from every manufacturer….. Except Mitsubishi.

Why?

It’s their image. I wouldn’t be caught dead in a new Imprezza either. It’s pants, it’s beige, it’s everything I hate about a car. Plus, at the motorshow, it was swamped by people who wore beige pants, and when they sat in it, you couldn’t see their legs because it blended in so well with the interior.

I actually would be caught dead in a Mistubishi…. because it would die suddenly leaving me stranded in the middle of nowhere. Maybe they are reliable, and I’ve just had a batch of friends, neighbours, co-workers, relatives who have all had issues of major mechanical and small electrical failure. Am I willing to put down my life savings to find out if this still holds true? Heck No!

I think most sane people wouldn’t either. And there’s the crux.

Steve
Dennis

Who cares, Mitsubishi as we know it in Australia won’t be manufacturing cars in Oz. by the end of 2008.any manufacturer can not exist in Aust. if they sell less than 1000 units a month and they have no export program either. They will become a sole importer like Mazda, Nissan etc.Dennis.
Tonyn

well, i have had two lancers, and when we had our family business we had a raft of tritons and magnas for our guys, not one of them failed.

I would have no hesitation in recomending a mitsubishi, i think they are the true underdog and have given nothing but good faithful service to us. I know this is just my opinion but i think mitsu coops a really bad wrap when they dont deserve it!
Jason

Its a good package overall, just a pity about the ESP. Judging from the Toyota Aurion sales success I don’t think most mass market buyers consider FWD a drawback.

What the car needs to boost sales is a new styling direction. If only Mitsubishi could get their hands on Mike Simcoe then they may finally get a large car design Australians like…unfortunately GM has him under lock and key
Tonyn

i didnt think this looked too bad?
Luke

“Just like Volvos, Mitsubishis had never inspired me (bar the Evo).” I’m sorry but this review was a bit amatuer. Pre-conceptions don’t offer any insight or worthwhile comment for a car. And to be honest, this review read more like a soft advertorial. The 380 is a competent car dynamically and mechanically, but it has many many design and aesthetic flaws, which have been well documented elsewhere. The interor, particularly the dashboard and centre console, is horrendeously outdated, while the exterior is actually 2 design concepts slammed together, and it shows. Thankfully Mitsubishi has now found a sweet spot in its corporate design with the new Lancer.
http://www.caradvice.com.au/ alborz

Luke, the 380 as a car is a great package, everycar has different flaws for different people. Also, just because it is a positive review doesn’t make it an advetorial, if you’ve been here long enough you should know that by now.
golfschwein

I’m with Tonyn. Can’t see anything truly terrible with stance and proportion, unlike the previous generation Camry that Australians bought two and a half thousand of a month. Maybe it’s just the details that need funking up, and the Series III looks like it’s getting there.
Nick

Why do people hate Magnas so much? They sold more of them in 96 than Comms! They won awards year after years and were so reliable and not bad to drive. They just got a bit tired towards the end…however I like the last facelift.
Jason

Nick I think your missing the point…1996? That was over 10 years ago mate! Truth is the current 380 sales aren’t competitive against other manufacturers of large cars and their low volume is threatening the viability of the local manufacturing operation and no amount of awards is going to prevent this.

Tonyn when you are left describing a car as not looking “too bad” then I think there is probably a problem with the look. Inoffensive is not a look a car maker should be trying to achieve in Australia but unfortunately I believe this is what Mitsubishi has inadvertantly pulled off. Toyota has achieved this look with most previous model Camrys aswell but they are fortunate enough to sell based on reputation alone.
Iamthestig

Well, sorry, I am not taken in by that glowing review.

What idiot would buy a 380 without ESP in todays market ?
Its omission from even a mention in the review is appalling. It just read like a paid advert to me.

In a few years time, when Joe Average actually realises that ESP is a lifesaver (especially for those with low skill levels), resale potential for cars without it will be a issue.

Say what you will but consumers don’t see the value. It just isn’t “special” the way the Lancer even is now. The sales figures (and they include quite a few rentals) reflect that.

The 380 is doomed. It is a old car, past its “use by” date already.
Tonyn

people buy corolla does that make them idiots?

Dont kid youself this is a very capable car and well worth a comparioson if your concidering any of the other big 3
Bret

Alborz: “If you’ve bought a base model Commodore or Falcon in the last 12 months, I want you to tell me why”

Well I haven’t, but if I did, simple: Towing capacity, or lack there off.
With only 590kg unbraked and 1600kg braked it won’t suit many people. Not everyone needs to tow caravans and boats, but for a car large 6cyl “family” car this is just a bit marginal. A 6×4 trailer full of camping gear for the weekend away or some gardening supplies would be pushing this limit.
Still think it’s a better car (definitely in appearance) than an Aurion anyway, but what is it with the dismal fuel consumption of the manual?
Iamthestig

“Tonyn Says:

people buy corolla does that make them idiots? ”

Yes it does – when there are cars for the same cost with better safety features.
Tonyn

wait till toyota paul hears that!!

I do have to agree, ESP is a amazing safety tool, i have done numerous courses on ESP and it is amazing how much it saves you! I would put ESP on any shopping list for any car!
Iamthestig

Yes, anyone who buys a new car shouldn’t have anything on their list of possible purchases without it. That is what makes the complete lack of mention in this review so ludicrous.

My last three cars have had ESP and my partners car (and she only does about 5,000kms a year !) has it too. For the past 3 or 4 years (even since ESP activated the first time and saved my bacon !) I wouldn’t consider anything without it.
Iamthestig

BTW. One this same site, when the new Corolla came out, in the barrage of text from the writers, no one brought up the lack of ESP until they read the comments (including mine, not to blow my own trumpet too much…!)
Going Ford, Is The Going Thing

Iamthestig, Now lets wait untill Toyota Paul sees what you said!!
Tonyn

oh yeah it is going to be war again!!!

….. but at least there reliable!
cobra045

Does anyone here know when the new model Prado is due out??
Starky

Nice car, and probably agree about it being a better package for most than a XT or Omega.
BUT it isn’t faster than a Falcon in the straight line in every test. It is less fuel efficient in most tests I’ve seen. It doesn’t handle as well as either Commodore or Falcon. Its interior is weird.

HOWEVER

It is the best car for most people. Fords and Holdens have terrible resale in base-models, and tend to fall apart. Aurion may have a better transmission, engine, interior, but its 7 grand more! Poor Mitsubishi, I think they only have about 20 private sales a month for this car.
Bavarian Missile

Dare I ask why Cobra045 ? You looking at trading the XR5 in on it or you given up on waiting for the new Cobra..hehehe
Toyota Paul

Starky you know there is this car called the Aurion… I would have provided that as an example because at the moment its ahead of the Commodore and Falcon (Obviously the Orion may change things).

My problem with the 380 is its butt ugly…especially from the rear. If they made it look more like the Lancer… with its package… it would be tempting if I was in the market for a family car.
http://. Naughtyius Maximus

TOYOTA PAUL…correct me if Iam wrong but you are contradicting yourself bigtime (certain it was you?). You said on Lancer post that you never like back of Lancer as looks too Alfa Romeo and not right…now you imply it looks tempting to drop same lights onto the 380 and would tempt you if in market for a family car. LOL

Yep ugly butt. Look at front lights with top curve of light looking bizarre. Back needs more then new tailights as side panels need to curve in more to marry up with back. The new Lancer back on the 380 would look disproportional with size of car and not good.
http://. Naughtyius Maximus

TOYOTA PAUL – please comment on your “backflip” previous comment on October 11th backflip at 8.30pm “Mitsubishi Evolution X Sydney Motor Show – World Premiere” post. You bagged the Lancer rear and now on this post state to put it on the 380 as if now all is OK and if you were in market for a large car you would be tempted? LOL! PLEASE TEMPT US ALL AND TELL US WHAT “YOU” REALLY REALLY MEAN!
Toyota Paul

Nm please dont try to hold me accountable to things, Ive already highlighted in relation to the Andrew.M that if dont so I will produce the evidence to clear my name!!! I dont like the Lancer rear end… but on a scale of 0-10 (10 being worst) its at 6… while 380 is a 9! The package Mitsubishi offers is good, but as I said given this ugliness I just couldnt possibly live with it… the Lancer on the other isnt as bad, even the interior which I dont like isnt as bad as that 380 rear end… so I think they should produce a family car that looks more like that… not an overly hot car overall, but more something you can accept (much like Toyota owners have accepted dull Camrys etc in the past)
http://. Naughtyius Maximus

TOYOTA PAUL…Iam not revving you as your not a hassle and OK. But truly it was the first thing I thought of when I read your comment that made me comment at 5.43pm this post.
http://. Naughtyius Maximus

TOYO PAUL… Have to say your answer was bit short answering my concern.
Tony

Steve – I don’t get you mate. You have a problem with Mitsubishi’s image. So the years of building the phenomenal EVO cars, which most folks in the know, consider to be one of the world’s best performance cars has blown their image for you. Oh, and what about the 11 outright wins in the Paris/Dakar, Dakar races? still not sorted with that image problem.

Mate, cut the crap, and do something sensible and go drive a new 380 and then tell me you don’t like the way it drives. If it should happen to break down, who gives a shit, they come with a 5/10 year warranty!
Danny DM

it is abvious that umm well holden and ford have something to hide considering they dont offer such a good warranty compared to mitsubishi. if Holden or ford tried to extend the warranty for such a long period of time im pretty sure they would go broke, cause well they are no where near as close in reliability sense as the 380. and dont try and rebut this by saying it has a bad reputation, that was 15yrs ago +.
Danny DM

sorry about the spelling mistake!!!!
http://. Naughtyius Maximus

WHO CARES AS UGLY AS! HOW CAN YOIU LIKE THAT BUTT – no butts about that it is butch as!
Bavarian Missile

Great warranty……..but yep still ugly!
Going Ford, Is The Going Thing

Yes the warranty. I remember an ad where a woman talks about the way her husband has has a company car, “A big ugly Ford” and it shows a picture of a Commodore wagon outside.
Fordolden’s are boring!

Driving a Series 3 VRX manga is the best alternative in a boring and ugly australian car manufactuters market.

They are not by any means an ugly car. I’ve seen more Fords and Holden’s that need to be removed from the road and never seen again.

Boo Hoo, the sales havent been good, boo hoo people think they ugly, boo hoo its a Mitsu. Tears and wahhhh don’t cast any judgement until you have gone out and driven a 380.
ThunderStruck

If you learn about the history of cars in Australia, and you’ll see theres absolutely no doubt about the fact that its always GM Holden that always set the standards in design, safety and engineering technology while the others have got no other choice but to follow the lead. Holden drivers in the 80′s where driving around in nicer shape cars where everyone else was driving around in a box. And who had the first SRS airbag fitted to a vehicle sold in Australia? Look at the shape of the current 380. Doesnt it resemble a Commodore VT 10 years ago? And I have driven a 380 and is not really all that spectacular, I would prefer to be driving a Commodore or Falcon anyday.
TommyBoy

I have owned a TJ (2001) Magna Solara since new. Before that I owned many Holdens over the years. I would NEVER buy another Holden, or Ford for that matter. My Magna has given me sterling service since I’ve owned. It has heaps of power, handles and rides superbly (…you’d have to be an idiot to get into handling trouble in this car…), is very comfortable and well-finished throughout. A real credit to the workers at Tonsley Park. I, for one, hope that Mitsu can do a re-design of the 380 and gain some sales and popularity for a much-underrated car. As to that famous Australian car magazine and its opinions and annual awards…Pfft!
B52

Anybody running the 820 on LPG moded with vapour injection ?

Is the tank still fitted inside the booth ?

Views and comments appreciated.
B52

I meant the 380 moded for LPG,
Ian L

The III Series 380 VRX is a great car. I cannot see why you would buy a Camry or a Ford if you can get such a great looking car in the 380 and it drives very well…spacious easy to drive and great road holding…
Duck

It is a great looking car i reckon, but there is a limit of how many cars they can produce in Adelaide and the sales are dropping badly and Mitsubishi might be thinking of making a whole new large car……..again. If they do continue to make the 380 id like them to do a facelift on it and more power in the V6. And it would be nice if they made a Supercharged V6 for extra power, but make it RWD before doing that, so u dont follow in Toyotas footsteps. Or even better they should make a RWD V8 380 for the GT!
zed

The car is finished.

Mitsubishi opened a 380 plant in california to produce them in the US, since most of them were being exported there anyway.

Making 270 of the 380 a day and 225 exported.

Us aussies now get the mediocre Holden and Ford that we deserve.
Megan

This may be a stupid question, but I’m actually considering upgrading my Lancer MR to a 380 (most likely GT Series II or III). My main concern is that because they are not producing this car anymore will that make it difficult 5-10 years down the track when trying to access parts etc? Also how will this affect insurance premiums? I have been told by my insurance company that if you have a car that requires parts to be imported or they are not easily sourced it can increase your premium. Apart from this I have no issues with the 380. I drove an 2005 Base model around for work when my car was out of action late last year and I loved it!
FRUGAL_ONE

MEGAN^^

By the S3 model, all *issues* would have been long gone.

Parts are not imported, it was made here in Oz, wont be a issue.

They are OUTSTANDING value for money 2nd. hand if you need a V6 large car.

Seen a black one the other day with nice wheels, real head turner!!

All up to you really, so much choice on the market

Cheers

F-0
Megan

Thanks F-0
That’s made me feel a bit better. Will have to get out there and test drive a few different models and see how it compares.
Holden-mech

YAWN can you choose a less interesting car to argue over or is this as boring as they come. Average features, styling and Drivability aside its biggest flaw is that scrap of plastic on the bonnet made up of 3 diamonds.

I love some of the comments from people who have owned other $hitsubishis. saying how they have never broken down ect. What they forgot to mention is the price they got for it when they sold it. bet it was sweet f all.

Im in the second hand market and i can tell you mitsubishi are not even in my/anybody’s sights. they seam to keep going but previous owners have grown use to the many small issues that develop in these cars.

Typical second hand mitsi sales pitch. It runs fine never let me down. Just gota hold the gear stick in 5th or it jumps out, oh and sometimes the windows don’t work, Try and keep it parked under shelter, if it rains there is a slow leak from the sunroof and boot. The engine idles a bit high but that’s just the faulty airflow meeter so i unplugged it and cranked the idle up to stop it stalling. works fine just releases more co2 than a coal smelter. If you need any parts there are a million of these at the local wreckers in good condition. Guess they where worth more as scrap. So what’s your offer. Hey why are you running away. Damn that’s the second time today.

If your test driving a new mitsi keep this in mind. what do you trust more a 5/10 year warranty offered by a company struggling because of there poor reliability history or The fact a 1972 Toyota corolla ke20 just went past. Not only is that Toyota 4X older than your warranty but it looks allot better than your mitsi.

Go Toyota and never go back!!!!