Mitsubishi Motors unveiled three concept vehicles as a testament to its new forward-looking design philosophy for future production models.

"You'll see the vision of a new global design team with a fresh perspective and a new identity," said Gagnon. Gagnon added, "Mitsubishi Motor Sales of America's brand promise of spirited cars for spirited people has been adopted as the global brand strategy for Mitsubishi Motors Corporation. Our last three years of record sales in North America and the efforts of Mitsubishi Motor Corporation's new leadership team are creating momentum globally."

Sports Utility Pack Cabriolet
The Sports Utility Pack Cabriolet made its world debut at the NAIAS. This derivative of the S.U.P. (Sports Utility Pack) concept raises the "fun ante" for those who seek the driving thrills of a "drop-top, go anywhere adventure machine." Seating four, the S.U.P. Cabriolet's long roof retracts to reveal a stylish, dynamic, functional open-air cockpit poised to transport passengers to exciting destinations. Door panel totes and seat-back packs help redefine the use of interior storage space. The four-wheel-drive S.U.P. Cabriolet is powered by an advanced, eco-conscious GDI-ISA hybrid drive train that includes an electric motor for each rear wheel.

Sports Utility Pack
Debuting to the North American market, the original Sport Utility Pack (S.U.P.) concept maximizes interior space and cargo carrying capabilities with a flat floor pan and clever door panel cases. This four-wheel driven, hybrid-powered concept delivers sportiness with an eye-catching silhouette and a supreme level of exploration-ready function that includes a quarter panel mounted shower. Style, safety, ruggedness, and function form the foundation of this concept, which hopes to be the harbinger of sports utility vehicles to come. The Sports Utility Pack challenges drivers and passengers with its eagerness to carry gear and the imagination of active-lifestyles to places unknown.

Space Liner
Also making its North American debut, the Space Liner concept re-evaluates the use of a vehicle's interior space. The cabin is fashioned to provide ample room for four adults to unwind while the use of "soft" light with indirect and translucent shades helps create a "relaxing" atmosphere. Pillar-less centre-opening doors and power assisted swivel front seats help create hassle-free entry and exit from the vehicle. Mitsubishi technologies help further reduce stress with heightened safety features such as a Lane Trace Assist feature that helps keep the vehicle in its lane. Meanwhile, ultra-clean fuel cell technology powers all four wheels through separate, front and rear traction motors.

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII
Also on display in Detroit was the Lancer Evolution VII sedan, which is currently the highest performance vehicle offered by Mitsubishi in the Japanese and European markets. This turbocharged, 276 horsepower sedan uses a competition proven four-wheel drive system to achieve unrivalled levels of handling. Evolution VII drivers benefit from electronic traction aids like AYC (Anti Yaw Control) and ACD (Active Center Differential) that use computers to maximize the vehicle's high-speed control and stability. The Evo's body uses lightweight aluminum to reduce weight and blistered fenders to accommodate wider tires. Expect to see a version of this rally inspired sedan for sale in the U.S. in the spring of 2003.