| Mitsubishi TETRA | |
| Production: | 1997 |
| Length: | 4505mm |
| Width: | 1855mm |
| Height: | 1645mm |
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 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]