PATIENCE will be rewarded in February when Mitsubishi introduces the all-new Colt three-door range.

From launch, the new model will be available with a choice of engines from the nippy 1.1-litre petrol through to the torquey and frugal 1.5-litre direct injection diesel.

Flagship of the range will be the turbocharged 1.5-litre 150bhp Colt CZT.

The CZT was developed at the specific request of Mitsubishi Motors Europe and styled at Mitsubishi Design Europe in Germany. It has been built "for customers who want a spirited, chic yet affordable car that's fun to drive" says Mitsubishi.

Power for the CZT is from Mitsubishi's own 1.5-litre MIVEC DOHC 16-valve intercooled turbocharged engine, specially tuned to develop 150bhp at 6,000rpm and 210Nm at 3,500rpm. Mated to a five-speed gearbox, the CZT will rush to 62mph in eight seconds.

To support this performance, engineers have substantially upgraded the standard Colt three-door format giving the CZT a reinforced bodyshell, sports suspension, front 15-inch disc brakes and 16-inch alloy wheels.

The CZT's sporty look is helped by a unique front bumper design with meshed grille, side airdams, large rear spoiler, sports exhaust muffler, side protection mouldings and door mirror casings.

Inside there are sports seats, a specially designed leather wrapped steering wheel with radio controls, leather gear knob, drilled aluminium pedals and silver accents on the dashboard.

At 60mm shorter and 30mm lower, the all-new Colt three-door is not simply a compact version of its five-door sister.

Pricing of the new car, including the CZT, will be confirmed next month.

Meanwhile, as a guide, expect the range to start at under £8,000 and the CZT to be priced under £13,000.

Updated: 12:05 Friday, November 19, 2004