Since word got out that Proton’s latest Inspira is based on the current Mitsubishi Lancer, and that there were going to be minimal exterior and drivetrain changes between the two, there has been a fear among some that more current Mitsubishi models will go down the same route. Well, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) has confirmed that none of the other cars it sells, including the Lancer Sportback and ASX, will be shared with Proton.
“Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia wishes to state that other than the Lancer, no other Mitsubishi models currently distributed by Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), including its recently launched vehicles – the all-new Lancer Sportback (October) and the ASX compact crossover (November) will be based on this technical collaboration in the future,” said Tetsuya Oda, CEO of MMM.
On the Inspira, Oda san had this to say: “While the Inspira is modeled after the Mitsubishi Lancer, it differs in a number of ways – with both having its own unique traits, allowing each respective vehicle to differentiate itself in the marketplace. Each brand also caters to a different group of customer segments with a different set of driving desires and expectations.”
By the way, MMM will continue to sell the CBU Lancer. Read the full statement from the MMM boss after the jump.
Statement issued by Mr Tetsuya Oda, Chief Executive Officer of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) Japan has collaborated with Proton Holdings Berhad (Proton) for many years and most recently, the technical support provided to Proton for the development of the new Inspira.
Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia wishes to state that other than the Lancer, no other Mitsubishi models currently distributed by Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), including its recently launched vehicles – the all-new Lancer Sportback (October) and the ASX compact crossover (November) will be based on this technical collaboration in the future.
While the Inspira is modeled after the Mitsubishi Lancer, it differs in a number of ways – with both having its own unique traits, allowing each respective vehicle to differentiate itself in the marketplace. Each brand also caters to a different group of customer segments with a different set of driving desires and expectations.
Exported to Malaysia and distributed by MMM, the Lancer is a Completely Built-Up Unit (CBU) – in which all parts and assembly standards have met Mitsubishi Motors’ stringent global quality standards.
In addition to being fully manufactured by MMC in Japan, the Mitsubishi Lancer is also designed and produced to meet the highest European (high-speed driving performance and handling), American (safety) and Japanese (vehicle built) quality standards.
The Inspira, on the other hand, is assembled at Proton’s facility in Shah Alam and will contain 40% local parts within the year.
Exclusively for Lancer owners, MMM offers a five year warranty programme in addition to a complimentary two year maintenance programme on all parts and labour.
MMM’s extensive sales and service network includes 54 service centres and 41 sales outlets nationwide – out of which 15 are 3S (Sales, Service and Spare parts) centres. MMM intends to increase its sales network to 45 by March 2011 with 27 3S centres.
On top of that, Lancer owners enjoy the assurances that come with purchasing a vehicle renowned for its 90 year brand heritage. Mitsubishi is also one of the leading global automakers in the world and has a long successful history in motorsports.
Through MMM, MMC continues to strengthen its presence in Malaysia. Mitsubishi is now one of the top four brands within the non-national car segment in Malaysia.
For more information, please visit your nearest Mitsubishi Motors showroom, or log on to www.mitsubishi-motors.com.my or call Customer Care Line at 03-7622 2202.
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AI-generated Summary ✨
Comments reveal strong dissatisfaction among current Mitsubishi Lancer owners over the decision to rebadge Proton Inspira, which many see as an inferior, locally assembled version of the Japanese model. Some feel betrayed and worry about decreased resale value and quality concerns. Others highlight that Mitsubishi’s official statements are an attempt to distance their Japanese-made Lancer from the Inspira, emphasizing differences in manufacturing standards. There is skepticism about future collaborations, with many believing Mitsubishi will continue rebadging Proton models, diluting brand reputation. Several commenters also criticize Mitsubishi’s brand loyalty and quality, expressing disappointment and distrust. Overall, sentiments range from anger and betrayal to skepticism about Mitsubishi’s integrity, with debates over quality, branding, and market trust central to the discussion.