Mitsubishi Super Sport Utility

Mitsubishi Super Sport Utility (SSU) Concept Vehicle

DETROIT - Isuzu, watch out. Mitsubishi is setting its sights squarely on the ugly side of the sport-utility market with the SSU concept vehicle. The SSU combines the performance of a sports car with the roominess of a sport-utility vehicle, but the final package is probably less than enticing for either sports car or off-road enthusiast.

Highlights of the SSU include the powerplant, a 2.5-liter version of the larger twin-turbo V6 found in the 3000GT VR-4, which in the SSU makes a reported 310 horsepower. To help out with handling and stability, the SSU is suited with full-time all-wheel drive as well as yaw control. A four-wheel independent suspension promises sports car-like handling, and Mitsubishi reports that this concept car can burn hot laps of 150 mph. During its press debut, the SSU had to be pushed onto the stage by staffers; so much for witnessing the awesome power in person.

Inside, the SSU is loaded with five Recaro seats, 600-watt stereo system, personal computer with Internet access, a DVD player and a video game player, just in case driving the car is insufficient entertainment.

Designed at Mitsubishi Motors R&D of America (MRDA) in Cypress, Calif., the SSU continues a "geo-mechanical" theme that has become one of the studio's trademarks. Mitsubishi reports that designers worked feverishly to get the concept car built in time for its unveiling in Detroit.

According to a press release, "there were days the team worked until 4 a.m., slept in their cars for a while, then were back to work at 6 a.m." If product appearances are any indication, the poor design team could have used more sleep.