MITSUBISHI has launched a saloon version of the Carisma in time for the August sales boom. The Netherlands-built car is expected to take 25% of Carisma sales in the UK in a full year and will share both specification and prices with the existing five door model.

Every 1.6 GL, 1.6 GLX, 1.8 GLX and 1.8 GLS model is available with standard and Diamond option pack specification and all are available with optional ABS brakes. The boot can swallow 16.9 cu ft of luggage and that can be extended by folding over the split rear seat.

There is a choice of two petrol engines - a 1.6 88.5 bhp unit and a 1.8 delivering 114 bhp. Top speeds are 112 mph and 125 mph respectively and both engines are available with manual or automatic transmission. Standard specification includes central door locking, power steering, tachometer, digital clock and a stereo radio cassette with four speakers. All models have a standard driver's airbag, front ELR seatbelts with pretensioners, anti-trapping mechanisms fitted to the power windows and sunroof and electronic immobiliser.

Prices run from £11,299 to £15,649 on the road and, as with all Mitsubishi models, the new Carisma is covered by a three year unlimited mileage warranty.