Kewalram acquires new Mitsubishi models

Chanrai Nigeria Limited, dealer on Mitsubishi model of vehicles in the country, has added two new models into its portfolio. The latest arrivals into the local market are the Attrage four-door sedan and the all-new Space Star hatchback also called the Mirage in some countries.

The introduction of the duo to the local automotive media coincided with the official visit of some Mitsubishi foreign officials to Kewalram Chanrai Limited who was in the country to explore more viable and sustainable businesses potentials in the country.

Mitsubishi Attrage is a 1.2-litre 4-door GLS sedan with optional equipment for customers to choose. For the outlet, the modest car has an outstanding fuel economy and easy manoeuvrability. Its surprisingly roomy interior and wide-ranging amenities reach far beyond its class to enhance driving pleasure.

The exterior is a bold sedan face and wide, stable rear that is aerodynamically shaped to enhanced performance. The lightweight body and smooth aerodynamics contribute to class-leading fuel efficiency as well as smooth and stable acceleration, thereby making travelling more affordable, eco-friendly and pleasurable.

With the Direct Over Head Camshaft (DOHC) 12-valve Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electric Control system (MIVEC) engine, Attrage responds with spirited torque and horsepower while maintaining impressive fuel economy

Mitsubishi Space Star on the other hand looks compact in terms of quality and economic. Dynamically styled from friendly face to expressive sides and tapering tail, it blends smooth aerodynamic curves with sculpted, edgy styling to create a refreshing balance and reassuring sense of stability.  Both Attrage and Space Star is available with a starting price of N2.1million and above depending on engine transmission and amenities.

Present at the media presentation inside the dealership’s showroom located on Victoria Island are Toshiaki Kimura of the overseas business department, Japan; Taiki Murai, general manager, Mitsubishi Motors, Nairobi liaison office, sub-Saharan Africa office for Mitsubshi; and Hidehiko Nishikawa, managing director, Nishikawa Nigeria Limited.

Before presentation of the graphic details of the new Attrage and Space Star models by Omprakash Ramkrishna of Chanrai marketing division, Raju Sawlani, executive director of the company, said that the team were in the country to familiarise themselves with evolving dynamics in the automotive business and to tap into new opportunities that may present itself.

Raju explained that the addition of Attrage and Space Star was designed to offer various categories of Mitisubishi make to the buying public and an indication that the existence of the automotive arm of within the Kewalram Chanrai group since 1989 was to deliver value for prospective car buyers.

Answering questions on the prospects of Mitsubishi positioning in the local market, Murai while admitting that though he may not know much about the market, said, “I don’t know much about Mitsubishi in  Nigerian market, we are prepared to give the required marketing support to our dealers to grow the brand in the country.”

He maintained that the automakers are satisfied with market presence and after sales services by Kewalram. On the disappearance of Gallant model from the market, Murai explained that the action was because the strategy of Mitsubishi Motor Corporation (MMC) was to concentrate more on SUVs instead of the saloon segment.

The move according to him was informed by global demand even though, there are some measure of flexibility in terms of introducing model line-ups in response to the demands of regions and markets within the sub-Sahara Africa where Mitsubishi cars, SUV, trucks and buses are being sold.

Mike Ochonma