After watching the ABC report at http://www.abc.net.au/reslib/200609/r106479_328766.ram I realised in the last 10 or so seconds when they mention the 380 "...The company couldn't meet its sales targets for the new A380 model."

1) The A380 is an aircraft not a car.
2) The Mitsubishi 380 has been out for nearly a year and there was alot of hype leading up to its launch (not that much hype after the launch though).
3) While not overly common they are on the roads and you would atleast see a few each day.
4) The car is built in Australia by Australians so why wouldn't an Australian television channel know that the 380's name is 380, not Magna, not A380, not the "new Magna" or whatever else they want to call it.

It just annoys me, because it definitely isn't the first time the 380 has been called something its not. While some people may not think its an issue it begs the question wheter people acknologe the 380's existance, if so, why are they getting the name wrong (ALL THE TIME!).

It just shows how useless the Mitsubishi Television (and radio, newspaper) commercials are if magazine articles, news reporters and even car reviews get the name wrong.

I hope Mitsubishi take's this issue seriously (if they are aware about it) and try and brainwash the 380 name and the Mitsubishi brand into peoples heads via some decent marketing.

:bowrofl: the new A380 model. gg Mitsubishi

Yeah I picked that up too. I don't think it should have been called 380 to be honest, it's a cold, near meaningless title that doesnt really mean much to the public at large, and dispite all of Magna's early misgivings with the Astron and the fragile 4 speed in the TE, the TJs were regarded fairly highly and Im sure that with the TLs and TWs (moreso if Boulay didnt get his hands on them) there was a brand name in Magna.

Imagery means everything these days, although its all rather subliminal - Falcon -> Bird of Prey, Commodore -> rank in Navy, Camry -> Phonetic spelling of "little crown" in Japanese, Aurion --> ancient greek for fresh breeze/tomorrow

Galant or Diamante would have been my pick, if they couldnt have just called it something like the others above (say excalibur (I believe dodge has that now) or ronin)

going through some rego-inspections today to get a few 380s that came from interstate registered and it said on the friggen rego-inspection papers that they were a Mitsubishi DB Magna..

one was a GT so it read Mitsubishi DB Magna GT..

stupid noobs @ Fowles Auctions that did the inspections.. we had to bloody get them done all over again.. so they obviously have no clue about the 380s and that magnas are no longer in production..

but i still think there are a lot of people out there that think its the new magna..

Most of my friend's like the TJ Magna. They think they are good. Most of them hate the TL/TW and the 380. They also say.. Yeah those Magnas are good.. not the newest ones the ones before that...

Most of my friend's like the TJ Magna. They think they are good. Most of them hate the TL/TW and the 380. They also say.. Yeah those Magnas are good.. not the newest ones the ones before that...

Well unless its a VRX 380 i say they look like poo... especially the lights.
Why was it called a 380?

What's a 380? :confused:

What's a 380? :confused:
20 more than a full revolution...

20 more than a full revolution...
in other words, ain't too far away from square one?? :redface:

Why was it called a 380?
coz mitsu tried to copy other manufacturers that sell successful cars that are named with numbers.. like the mercedes range, the bmw range, peugeots are thier 307, 407 etc..

haha nah, im pretty sure it is because the engine is a 3.8L.. 3.8 = 380

which raises the question, if they bring out a 2.4L mivec variant will that make it a Mitsubishi 240? sounds stupid..

It was a very stupid and misguided mistake to call the car '380'. I don't know which committee of overpaid uni graduate suit wearing prats came up with the concept, but what I do know is, they should be shot! Three Hundred and Eighty times! The reputation of the 'Magna' label in my opinion has never been in question. There have been rocky patches, but you can also say the same about Falcon or Commodore or even Camry.

When it comes to a car, the name is everything and the Aussie market has always stuck with cars which have a reputation. Doesn't necessarily matter if its all good or all bad. When have you ever seen a brand new car label rocket to a top 3 sales spot this country? I can't recall it ever happening. People are now looking for alternatives to Falcon and Commodore and look what they are turning to now. The friggen Camry. Magna HAD firmly cemented itself in the Aussie consciousness as an alternative and after 20 years of developing this, the opportunity to capitalise on it with a brand new model has now been lost in a mix of confusing marketing campaigns and a car name which has no personality or reputation.

I shed a tear for poor old Mitsubishi Australia. Sooo much potential, but it has always been lost somewhere by a bunch of screwed misguided marketing decisions regarding what they think people want. Remember what they did with the Lancer GSR!?!? Don't get me started!

I reckon the best course of action would be for them to return the name 'Magna' into the title of the car. The car could be called Magna 380. Best of both worlds. It's new, but it has a history..... Prease Consider MMAL!!!!!!

Ten news just now was saying something about Mits being thrown a lifeline by an asian competitor... going on to say something about the "three-hundred-and-eighty"...:gtfo:

Ten news just now was saying something about Mits being thrown a lifeline by an asian competitor... going on to say something about the "three-hundred-and-eighty"...:gtfo:

The asian competitor you're referring to is Proton and they are hardly a competitor. Proton and Mitsubishi have shared products lines for decades. Mitsu even own a stake in the company.

When I get a 380, im going to debadge the 380 bit and put a 3rd gen badge there.. atm dont know what.

Ten news just now was saying something about Mits being thrown a lifeline by an asian competitor... going on to say something about the "three-hundred-and-eighty"...

Fingers crossed that that is the deal with Proton, and that it has been accepted/agreed on. If so, I must say it is perfect timing (on MMAL's behalf) to release the confirmation of the Mitsubishi-Proton deal now, as in a sense it re-assures the public that MMAL are here to stay.

Hopefully it will be in tomorrows paper, on or 7 news tomorrow night.

The asian competitor you're referring to is Proton and they are hardly a competitor. Proton and Mitsubishi have shared products lines for decades. Mitsu even own a stake in the company.
Still suprising however that it wasn't Mitsubishi Malaysia that took up on the 380 option. Anyway I suspect it's a bit of a red herring - I cant really see the 380 being sold in Malaysia in any greater numbers than the sales of the 380 to fiji and nz.

They really need to pursue the Middle East markets, or even export the 380 to Japan and China, (given MMJ does not have a large car anymore).

June 06 YTD sales of the Perdana in Malaysia (the car that 380 is to replace) have only been 1,567 units. Proton have stated that they want the 380 to replace their aging flagship car, which is aimed at government officials, police and wealthy businessmen - ie, I'd be suprised to see over 3,800 380 (240?) units sold in Malaysia if it goes ahead - plus there is still the issue of Proton importing the 380 as a complete knock down kit - which will mean there will still be idle capacity at Tonsley park!

May be when they finally close Tonsley Park next year 380s will be made at Proton Factory makes sense cheap labour, = cheap 380s. :badgrin:

man your like 17.... what are you doing watching the abc report??? lol :P

I like the idea of calling the 380 a "Magna 380". Then the 4 cyl version a "Magna 240". 380 name as much as it pains me, isn't going to catch on. The name "Magna" has just been around too damn long to change now. Bring back Magna!

I like the idea of calling the 380 a "Magna 380". Then the 4 cyl version a "Magna 240". 380 name as much as it pains me, isn't going to catch on. The name "Magna" has just been around too damn long to change now. Bring back Magna!
i dont know why they changed from magna... look at the top selling cars... corolla, commodore, falcon, landcruiser... they have all been around for years and years, and had established themselves in the marketplace.

the magna had only been around since 85, where as the commy (mid 70's), falcon (early 60's), landcruiser (1960), and corolla (late 60's).

Mitsu had just released the ralliart, giving themselves a bit mroe of a performance edge, they had a wagon & sedan, their hi-spec luxo's were competitive... they even had luxo-sport models like gtv(i) with vrx engine and awd in a verada

People just dont jump at a new model... avalon, modeo, daewoo karlos (now the New Barina! and people cant get enough of them.

Why buy something new when it doesnt offer anything more than what the existing market place could already offer you.

why cant i find anything on google news re the proton deal?

Mitsu had just released the ralliart, giving themselves a bit mroe of a performance edge
There was supposed to be a ralliart model in the TL-TW lineup as well, but since the dismal sales of the TJ Ralliart, MMC pulled MMAL up bigtime on the ralliart option. All in all, the Ralliart was a sales failure.

why cant i find anything on google news re the proton deal?

The Proton/MMAL deal is not new news. It was talked about a long time ago however it has been reincarnated as fresh news as a diversion to the media onslaught.

http://www.news.com.au/adelaidenow/story/0,22606,19945248-910,00.html

There was supposed to be a ralliart model in the TL-TW lineup as well, but since the dismal sales of the TJ Ralliart, MMC pulled MMAL up bigtime on the ralliart option. All in all, the Ralliart was a sales failure.
They wanted too much for it, at the time you could get an XR6 for about the same price couldn't you?

They wanted too much for it, at the time you could get an XR6 for about the same price couldn't you?
Yeah and more! Ralliart Magna was $48,990, BA XR6T was $45,000, BA XR8 was $50,130, VYII SS was $49,990 :nuts: Tell'em their dreaming! I think MMAL grossly stuffed up with the Ralliart on the pricing front

No wishing to upset any ralliart faithful owners on here but you'd have to be mad if you bought a ralliart Magna new for that price.

Yeah and more! Ralliart Magna was $48,990, BA XR6T was $45,000, BA XR8 was $50,130, VYII SS was $49,990 :nuts: Tell'em their dreaming! I think MMAL grossly stuffed up with the Ralliart on the pricing front

No wishing to upset any ralliart faithful owners on here but you'd have to be mad if you bought a ralliart Magna new for that price.
They shoulda just waited 8 months and they could of built the Ralliart on the AWD platform and put the 6 speed manual in it. Add a bit more power and price it at about $47k and it woulda been a total winner.

i dont know why they changed from magna... look at the top selling cars... corolla, commodore, falcon, landcruiser... they have all been around for years and years, and had established themselves in the marketplace.

the magna had only been around since 85, where as the commy (mid 70's), falcon (early 60's), landcruiser (1960), and corolla (late 60's).

Mitsu had just released the ralliart, giving themselves a bit mroe of a performance edge, they had a wagon & sedan, their hi-spec luxo's were competitive... they even had luxo-sport models like gtv(i) with vrx engine and awd in a verada
People just dont jump at a new model... avalon, modeo, daewoo karlos (now the New Barina! and people cant get enough of them.

Why buy something new when it doesnt offer anything more than what the existing market place could already offer you.
I think you're onto something there. Whilst I too disagree with the name change from Magna to 380, there are other more serious issues here. The Magna range simply had so many more options, more "surprise and delight" features, all in all a wider range to cater for a wider market. Add to that what some of you have said that Magna is/was now firmly entrenched in the Aussie automotive scene as a genuine family fighter - a real alternative for those who don't wish to go down the same old Falcodore track.

1) Magna came in a luxury guise in Verada - a car distinguished from Magna. Unlike 380 which is the same from ES to GT.

2) Magna was available with a standard (155kW) and sports (163kW) engine, giving it's performance models more cred (Sports/VR-X/Verada GTVi) - unlike 380 (175kW only).

3) Magna had something very unique going for it in AWD - not only unlike 380, but any other competitor for that matter.

4) Magna also came in a wagon variant - unlike 380.

5) "Magna" itself is a great name for a car.

All these points that 380 lost out to Magna I have no doubt resulted in lost sales. I also would have prefered to keep Magna, and the suggestion to bring back Magna and call the 380 "Magna 380" and "Magna 240" etc certainly has it's merrits, but sadly I can't see it happen.

Just imagine .... Mitsubishi Verada 380GT. Has a nice ring to it hey?

I'm gonna starting a new thread on this... would be good to get peoples ideas. Maybe we could partition it to MMAL.

2) Magna was available with a standard (155kW) and sports (163kW) engine, giving it's performance models more cred (Sports/VR-X/Verada GTVi) - unlike 380 (175kW only).

MMAL's budget for the 380 is VERY limited for the time being. So considering the limited amount of money they had to spend, I think they spent it in most of the right areas, well except maybe for marketing. lol

Also lets not forget the first sports model in the TF and TH range also shared the same power rating as the base models at the time. It wasn't till TJ that there was a power differentiation (probably due to budget at the time also).:P

Yeah I picked that up too. I don't think it should have been called 380 to be honest. Diamante would have been my pick.

Yea,dave_au,Diamante is better that 380.The second time round,the car name would have been better anything but 380:rant:

I much prefer Diamante over Magna or 380.

People want a name not a number, and they don't want a name associated with old drivers.

Sporty, Classy, Power or European. Pick two and you have a good name.

MMAL's budget for the 380 is VERY limited for the time being. So considering the limited amount of money they had to spend, I think they spent it in most of the right areas, well except maybe for marketing. lol

I'm in!

MMAL's budget for the 380 is VERY limited for the time being. So considering the limited amount of money they had to spend, I think they spent it in most of the right areas, well except maybe for marketing. lol

Also lets not forget the first sports model in the TF and TH range also shared the same power rating as the base models at the time. It wasn't till TJ that there was a power differentiation (probably due to budget at the time also).:P
I was referring to the appeal that the Magna/Verada range had in opposition to it's competitors, compared with 380. We all know the reasons why, but why doesn't matter - it's the facts.

People aren't gonna buy a 380 VRX because they know and understand why it doesn't have as many features and/or appeal as perhaps an XR6 (though I would:P), they'll buy the XR6 because it DOES have more visual design flair and features etc.

But you're right with their marketing... although we've all discussed and posted here so many times on their marketing and advertising I just can't be bothered any more.:doubt:

don't bring back magna, magna = ****ty family crappy car

380 = crap name cause it doesn't stand out

man they shouldn't of designed a better looking car

The 380 VRX / GT due for release early 07 will have a pretty good looking
body kit and more KW I just hope it's not to late as I tend to agree that
the mmal story is one of lost opportunity's. :rant:

The 380 VRX / GT due for release early 07 will have a pretty good looking body kit

Given your prior history in bodykits - do you know something we don't know?

For what it's worth Mitsubishi could have taken the Mitsubishi Galant straight from the US done nothing to it and sold it as a Magna, and it would look no different to the current one. They would have saved a lot of money not bothering to change it and rebrand to 380. Do you realise how much was spent just advertising the 380 to get people to know what it is? Heaps! Still hasn't worked!

For what it's worth Mitsubishi could have taken the Mitsubishi Galant straight from the US done nothing to it and sold it as a Magna, and it would look no different to the current one. They would have saved a lot of money not bothering to change it and rebrand to 380. Do you realise how much was spent just advertising the 380 to get people to know what it is? Heaps! Still hasn't worked!
As aesthetically unpleasing as the 380 in entry level form is, it's still no where near as bad as the hideous Galant in the US, not to mention the significant mechanical and drivetrain enhancements done for the 380.

2484724848

Keeping in mind that Mitsubishi US have adopted many styling cues designed in Australia for their Galant, inc grille (see above), front/rear bumper treatments, and steering wheel.

I do agree that, $250m plant upgrade aside, I don't see where all of the $350m is spent on the 380.

As aesthetically unpleasing as the 380 in entry level form is, it's still no where near as bad as the hideous Galant in the US, not to mention the significant mechanical and drivetrain enhancements done for the 380.

2484724848

Keeping in mind that Mitsubishi US have adopted many styling cues designed in Australia for their Galant, inc grille (see above), front/rear bumper treatments, and steering wheel.

I do agree that, $250m plant upgrade aside, I don't see where all of the $350m is spent on the 380.
That bonnet bulge just doesn't look right with the new front end, and the galant is still fugly whereas i quite like the 380 front end, even though they are very similar. It's a perfect example of making slight cosmetic changes to make something crap, good.

VP Vanquish - You obviously have no idea what changes they made from galant to 380, and to say they look the same? Have you ever seen a galant? Talking about the original galant the 380 was based off, not the hideous hybrid above.

As for what was said in the thread, it's an interesting point that when the 3rd gen came out all engines were the same bar verada, then the sports variants started coming in with the same output, then later on they got upgraded over the exec. Perhaps history is repeating at MMAL? I would love the look on your faces if the new VRX is absolutely killer like the TJ vrx was.

VP Vanquish - You obviously have no idea what changes they made from galant to 380, and to say they look the same? Have you ever seen a galant? Talking about the original galant the 380 was based off, not the hideous hybrid above.



I'd love to know your version of the changes to the 380 from the Galant in your own words, because I nor the Australian public can see them. Does anyone here even know the detailed differences between the two?

Here are some pictures of the 2004 Mitsubishi Galant. Apart from the front-end I bet most people here wouldn't know a Galant from a 380 unless they looked at the badges.

My point is if Mitsubishi wasn't going to market the new features added to the car to make the 380 vastly different to the Galant, how would anyone know just from looking at it? It looks pretty much the same. If you are going to pore money into an investment to make it vastly superior on the inside and under the bonnnet, you have to let people know what you've done to it if you want it to sell.

I can't see where the $350m + has gone. Heck even if they just took the US Galant in base form and converted it to rear-wheel drive it would sell more than the 380.

Just so you know, I'm not dissing the 380, I'm dissing Mitsubishi's incompetence.

I'd love to know your version of the changes to the 380 from the Galant in your own words, because I nor the Australian public can see them. Does anyone here even know the detailed differences between the two?

Here are some pictures of the 2004 Mitsubishi Galant. Apart from the front-end I bet most people here wouldn't know a Galant from a 380 unless they looked at the badges.

My point is if Mitsubishi wasn't going to market the new features added to the car to make the 380 vastly different to the Galant, how would anyone know just from looking at it? It looks pretty much the same. If you are going to pore money into an investment to make it vastly superior on the inside and under the bonnnet, you have to let people know what you've done to it if you want it to sell.

I can't see where the $350m + has gone. Heck even if they just took the US Galant in base form and converted it to rear-wheel drive it would sell more than the 380.

Just so you know, I'm not dissing the 380, I'm dissing Mitsubishi's incompetence.
Yeh i guess that's where the heart of the problem lies, mitsubishi have this great product but aren't advertising what's so great about it. Which really hasn't changed since I can remember.

What is so great about it? A sonata has a bigger standard equipment list... and the 130k warrenty... and more power.... at the same price.

The 380 is a good car, it just doesnt have anything to stand it apart in the market place atm. Wait for 380 s3 next year, see if that makes a difference.

I'd love to know your version of the changes to the 380 from the Galant in your own words, because I nor the Australian public can see them. Does anyone here even know the detailed differences between the two?
First of all let me remind you of the $600 million Holden spent developing the VT Commodore which looked remarkably like an Opel sedan sold in Europe from '94/'95.

Changes done by MMAL to improve 380 from equivalent 2005 Galant, which amazingly isn't sold in Australia...

Exterior:
-front bumper/grille (base style by Japan/VRX style by Aus)
-rear bumper (again as above)
-bonet
-headlights
-side mirrors
-exhaust
-wheel arches
-wheels (inc fullsize spare)
-taillights (VRX/GT aside)
-body-side protectors
-spoiler
-badging

Interior:
-seats
-audio stack
-lower centre console/console box
-steering wheel
-rear bench
-gear shift and surround
-instrument cluster
-option of ECM (auto-dimming mirror)
-colour themes and highlights

Mechanical:
-everything except displacement of V6 (3828cc)

This is all I could think of at the moment, I'll add to it when more comes to mind.

What is so great about it? A sonata has a bigger standard equipment list... and the 130k warrenty... and more power.... at the same price.
I think you mean Grandeur (194kW)? Sonata=173kW/304Nm, 380=175kW/343Nm. 380 next year (approx figures): VRX/GT=190/195kW, 350/355Nm, then a 4 cyl with AT LEAST 120kW.

What's so great about it? Well someone who's driven it properly, as well as it's current competitors, wouldn't ask that question. I have actually now driven a BF Falcon and VE Berlina over the past month (haven't driven Camry yet) and the 380 still holds it's own. More nimble than Falcon, and surprisingly quieter than VE Berlina.

Despite what changes MMAL have tried to do to the 380, it's still in essence a 2003 model car and should have been introduced after the TJ.

Despite what changes MMAL have tried to do to the 380, it's still in essence a 2003 model car and should have been introduced after the TJ.
Yeh you're probably right, but it's very easy to say what they should have done, at the time there's no way they could have predicted that world oil prices would skyrocket and that boulays magna facelift wouldn't take off as they'd hoped for.
All you can do really is hope mitsubishi bounce back and learn from their mistakes, which by the sounds of the upcoming months could well be.

Yeah, well it will be the oldest body out of the upcoming car generations

Isn't the VE still based off the VT in some areas of the bodywork? And doesn't the BF have some AU heritage?

Isn't the VE still based off the VT in some areas of the bodywork?

Not that I'm aware off, everything I have read points to an all new body. They are saying it's first all new Holden since the Kingswood.


And doesn't the BF have some AU heritage?

Yep, the basic chassis is based on the AU (with improvements in structural rigidity), and obviously the suspension was modernised.

Not that I'm aware off, everything I have read points to an all new body. They are saying it's first all new Holden since the Kingswood.
It might be different structurely, but it still looks VERY similar to the previous shape, esp. from the rear.

It might be different structurely, but it still looks VERY similar to the previous shape, esp. from the rear.
Evolution but with keeping Holden DNA - completely different to VT-VZ

And doesn't the BF have some AU heritage?
Yep, every bodypannel had some adjustments though, with the exception of the doors.

The AU-BF body is due for retirement next year - so we're going to have the 2003 Body 380, 2006 Body VE, 2006 Body Aurion and 2007 Body Falcon until potentially 2011 when MMAL decides what their going to do next.

Another compelling case on why the 380 is a good car and great value for money.
I didn't realise they VE has a bigger turning circle than the 380. lol

From carpoint.com:

As Australia focuses on the VE Commodore/BF Falcon large car stoush or the Toyota Camry/Mazda6/Honda Accord Euro/Subaru Liberty medium combatants, there is an up to the minute and cheaper middle line that might be better than all of them depending on your requirements. After I had covered over 2000km in each variation of the first Mitsubishi 380 series and was left with a huge respect for the model, the latest SX Series 2 at its $32,990 starting price had my attention as it should for anyone looking for a low cost but good quality family car.

This sporty SX alternative to an XR6 or SV6 is now $2000 cheaper than the base 380 level at launch. Its 3.8-litre six is bigger and smoother than both of Holden's V6 engines in a car that weighs up to 200kg less. When its five-speed auto is significantly better than Holden's base V6 four-speed auto and at least as good as the VE's premium five-speed auto, it has the potential to deliver better economy in urban conditions with equivalent or better performance. It's also a useful half size smaller at 4837mm long, 1840mm wide on a 1570mm track versus 4894mm,1899mm and 1602 front/1618mm rear for the VE Commodore.

Although the turning circle is wide for the 380's size, it is still smaller at 11.2 compared to the VE's massive 11.4 metres. Without the VE's hidden wheel arch blisters and fat windscreen pillars, the 380 is also much easier to position in confined spaces than the Commodore while providing significantly more rear seat hip space for three than the imported medium cars.

The 380 marks a return to the first Magna formula of a wider medium car, not a downgraded prestige model like the two Magna series that followed. This explains why it feels a much more youthful, more agile car to drive than any recent Magna and its heavy Australian rivals. Equally, it feels more substantial than the current crop of Japanese and Korean medium cars. The SX sports suspension is considerably more refined and compliant for everyday use than Holden's VE sports specification. It also lacks the crash-through and sharp jolts that mar the Japanese imports as soon as you leave smooth bitumen.

This is one of the few sporty family cars that you can drive quickly over most Australian road surfaces without upsetting it. As Australians become more dependent on imports that don't have suspensions tuned for local roads, the 380 SX was like a breath of fresh air. It turns in willingly with little body roll or front drive scrub in tight corners providing you don't unleash the considerable grunt. The 380 SX, despite the standard traction control, can get untidy when you plant the foot and has more than enough power in a car of this size and weight.

The 380 SX brings 17-inch alloy wheels, mesh sports grille, contoured front sports seats with six way driver's seat electric adjustment, leather-wrapped steering wheel, premium six-stacker in-dash CD sound with eight speakers and an exceptionally clear instrument display that includes an easy-to-read auto gear indicator as it works through its sequential dash lights. Clever remote steering wheel controls are mounted on the back of the spokes while the single zone climate control system has outlets for rear passengers. The SX also gets the top level 4.9-inch TFT screen with graphics and colour effects similar to the latest mobile phones and 10-function computer. Factor in the 10-year non-transferable powertrain warranty and it should be done deal. Not so fast.

While I personally like the new 380 shape, it has already become anonymous even if there are still not many on the roads. There is no rear spoiler and the lack of external detailing on the cheaper models can be a turn-off for those excited by the showroom presentation of the Honda Accord Euro or Mazda 6. Even though there are more padded and tactile surfaces inside the 380 than the hard plastics common in Japanese imports these days, they don't present as well with the cheap-looking centre section and button-shaped knobs.

The 380 misses out on steering column reach adjustment but with the generous power seat adjustment and steering wheel tilt, it won't matter to most drivers. Driver comfort and cabin layout are as good as any of its rivals and better than some. However, the lack of a fold down rear seat may veto the 380 for some families. This is a real oversight shared with the VE Commodore when you can no longer buy a wagon version.

If you can see past these shortfalls and drive a 380 SX on a wide variety of roads, you will be impressed by the body integrity and smoothness. It is a nice car in the fundamentals rather than a tarted-up ordinary one. The 380 is more a direct rival for the Toyota Camry before Toyota split its range into the four cylinder Camry and V6 Aurion. Mitsubishi's original plan was to do something similar but after the bigger Mitsubishi model was cancelled, Mitsubishi was forced to cover both bases with a single 380 range which leaves it as the only one of its type with this much grunt at the price.

If you are in the market for a four-cylinder front-drive medium car which is the 380's true hunting ground, the big obstacle on paper is the potential for the big 3.8-litre V6 to guzzle petrol. The claimed 10.8lt/100km figure for the SX auto is close enough to the base BF Falcon or VE Commodore autos and significantly worse than the benchmark $40,960 XR6 with its extra cost six-speed auto.

Yet the lighter weight of the 380 SX should generate better figures than its full size rivals in stop-start traffic. To test this, I undertook a 65 km loop through inner Melbourne in dense but constantly moving traffic through 60, 70 and 80km/h speed zones driving only as hard as I needed to keep up. Using a bowser fill readout verified by a computer average, this generated a genuine 10.8lt/100km fuel figure, identical to Mitsubishi's claim.

Providing you can resist the temptation to access the V6's extra grunt, this is so close to what the big Japanese fours will deliver under these conditions, it doesn't matter. Overtaking urge on the open road especially when loaded is in another league. Factor in the $5-6000 saving over some of its rivals and the 380 SX could well be one of the hidden bargains on today's market.

^^^ sheesh! might aswell type the bible in aswell! lol ;)

Evolution but with keeping Holden DNA - completely different to VT-VZ
The shape of the 380 is "new" to australian people, i don't think there'd be many mainstream buyers that actually knew what a galant was.

The shape of the 380 is "new" to australian people You make an interesting point, was just thinking the other day that you can see some form of DNA between the TW VRX and the 380 VRX/GT betweeen the front bar and the A pillar - I guess it's mainly the front bumper. What do you guys think?

You make an interesting point, was just thinking the other day that you can see some form of DNA between the TW VRX and the 380 VRX/GT betweeen the front bar and the A pillar - I guess it's mainly the front bumper. What do you guys think?
I was thinking this just the other day, there was a brand new 380 LX (i think, the chrome grille) parked next to a TL, both silver. You could instantly tell they were made by the same car company at the front, were both very similar. It's almost like MMAL have done a magna conversion on the galant somewhat.

I was thinking this just the other day, there was a brand new 380 LX (i think, the chrome grille) parked next to a TL, both silver. You could instantly tell they were made by the same car company at the front, were both very similar. It's almost like MMAL have done a magna conversion on the galant somewhat.

I agree. The front-end of the 380 still very much reminds me of the Magna. I know people who when looking from front-on have called the 380 a Magna or a Lancer. The problem? Olivier Boulay and his stupid styling ideas. If the 380 had a more aesthetically pleasing front-end and had a less aggressive rear-end with the taillights and what not, it would be so much better. Look at the BA Falcon. In XT form it's not aggressive really at all. Ford played it very safe and it paid off.

Mitsubishi were onto something with the TJ Magna (although some argued the beak nose was a bit too aggressive). It would be interesting if we could go back in time to 2000 when the TJ Magna was first released and then assume Olivier Bouley didn't take over on the TL. The Magna name would probably still exist, and the new Magna would look probably a lot different.

The sad part? The Magna name has died, and it's only a matter of time before the vast majority of owners on this forum trade-in their Magnas for a 380 or anything else, and the AMC name goes down. Think about it. In 5 year's time the newest Magna you will be able to buy will be 6 year's old and it will be the TW Magna which a lot of people dislike. A lot of people will upgrade during that time. Where will this forum be in 5 year's time? I don't know. But I think Olivier Boulay has done a lot more damage than was first thought.

The AU-BF body is due for retirement next year
I wouldnt be holding my breath on this one...

But I think Olivier Boulay has done a lot more damage than was first thought.

mmmmm i dont think i can agree there.. look at how successful the CH lancers are.. yes, they arent a magna, but the front of them is virtually IDENTICAL to a TL/TW and they sell like hotcakes..

there were many contributions to the "death" of the magna.. some may say that boulay played a major part, but i dont think it was that at all..

also, the new tritons.. we have sooooo many GLX-R's on back order it isnt funny.. clients are waiting til the end of november for them and they have the "ugly" (i dont think it is one bit) boulay inspired grill..

i just think that people struggle to find any REAL faults in the magnas (and other boulay inspired models) therefore all they can criticise is the look..

I wouldnt be holding my breath on this one...
Yeah Ford themselves have stated that 2008 will be the dawning of the Orion, though late 2007 wasn't out of the question. But either way come 2008 380 will be the oldest car released in 2005, Aurion and Commondork 2006, Orion Falcon 2008. But then, should MMAL continue on manufacturing here, just 3 years later there'll be a new model rolling out of Tonsely Park (here's hoping!):)

.....The Magna name has died, and it's only a matter of time before the vast majority of owners on this forum trade-in their Magnas for a 380 or anything else, and the AMC name goes down. Think about it. In 5 year's time the newest Magna you will be able to buy will be 6 year's old and it will be the TW Magna which a lot of people dislike. A lot of people will upgrade during that time. Where will this forum be in 5 year's time?.......

the forum will still be here, because there are so many people on this forum like myself, vp, bain, etc who dont own a magna, but still hang around. the cheaper the magna's become, the more popular they will be. i remember when i was in grade 12, the best thing most kids could afford was a vk... maybe a vl if they were lucky. in 5 years time, people will be able to afford a tj, and put a turbo or 2 on it :D

Has anyone here seen the original Boulay designed nose for the 380? I actually think it looks better than the one the car ended up with. It has a more aggressive look to it even though it carries over the split grill of the TW.

Yeah Ford themselves have stated that 2008 will be the dawning of the Orion, though late 2007 wasn't out of the question.
Yep, though its more like 08. A mate of mine works at Ford and the closest thing he has seen to a complete Orion is a fibreglass mock up with perspex windows and only a drivers door fitted to a BA shell.

Mitsubishi were onto something with the TJ Magna (although some argued the beak nose was a bit too aggressive). It would be interesting if we could go back in time to 2000 when the TJ Magna was first released and then assume Olivier Bouley didn't take over on the TL. The Magna name would probably still exist, and the new Magna would look probably a lot different.
Interesting you say that as someone once posted up here on the forums the concept of the TL magna before boulay got his hands on it looked mega sweet. Apparently MMAL were all ready to go on this revision but once again the hotshots in japan overruled them and made a bad decision. I wonder if someone could find the image it looked pretty sweet!

I wonder if someone could find the image it looked pretty sweet!
March 2003 motormag:

2005 Magna - which was also supposed to be launched with the 3828CC donk with 170kw and 340NM.

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g291/dave_au2/2005Magna.jpg

I love Oliver Boulay's comments on the yet to be seen TL

"it was quite an expensive facelift... we finished the car only a few months ago, but we did the initial design in only four weeks. Day and night. We did that during the summer of 2001... we've cleaned it up....when you look at the front it is more dynamic. This car looks like it is going 250km/h. This Magna is more modern and quite elegant" funny it doesn't refer to employing the team behind the AU falcon.....

In their defence however, if only they didn't stuff up the headlights by sending the corner of the lamp way up the bonnet, the car would have looked better.

For instance. my partial TJ meets 380 TL:
http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g291/dave_au2/NewlookmagnaFF2.jpg

For instance. my partial TJ meets 380 TL:
http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g291/dave_au2/NewlookmagnaFF2.jpg

it definatley one of those looks that you either love or hate..

sorry, but i really dont like that white TJ-L...

TL ftw

March 2003 motormag:

2005 Magna - which was also supposed to be launched with the 3828CC donk with 170kw and 340NM.

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g291/dave_au2/2005Magna.jpg

I love Oliver Boulay's comments on the yet to be seen TL
funny it doesn't refer to employing the team behind the AU falcon.....

In their defence however, if only they didn't stuff up the headlights by sending the corner of the lamp way up the bonnet, the car would have looked better.

For instance. my partial TJ meets 380 TL:
http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g291/dave_au2/NewlookmagnaFF2.jpg
That's teh actual TL concept, i'm talking about the actual car that was suppose to be before the TL. The pic i've seen was that sandstormy colour.

Just some rock hard confirmation that MMC Japan WILL NOT be closing the Tonsley Park plant any time soon:

http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,20867,20408573-5006787,00.html

Now, time for me to blast the shizen out of ABC's so called "investigative" unit. :rant:

*Edit: and just to add, given there is a far greater likelyhood of an MMC plant closing in Japan, wouldn't it be time for there to be at least a hint of talks between MMAL and it's parent with regards to boosting the product line at Tonsley Park instead of wasting what is a state-of-the-art manufacturing plant?

After all, Ford, GMHolden and Toyota all qualify for govt grants because they manufacture at least 30,000 units per year, and obviously MMAL are acheiving little more than half that. So much opportunity, so much potential - an all too familiar tale.:doubt:

Yep. I personally lay most of the blame with MMC's decision to use Boulay's design:doubt: for the last Magna, and then on MMAL's marketing department for the most half ****d advertising campaign ever! All these awards and nobody hears a damn thing FFS! Why weren't they rubbing it in the other manufacturer's faces. Especially the finding that the 380 was the cheapest car in Australia to run. I mean come on, how could you screw up a gimme like that. and then to change the name was a stupid idea. If they kept with the Magna name then it would have show Australia that Mitsu were gonna dig in and put their heads down and stay in Australia. But now they have a bit of a giving up image. I mean the downside in Motor mag for the 380 VRX is 'but how long is Mitsubishi staying'. MMAL, the company of missed opportunities :(.

edit: A wagon model would be nice as well. Would help with the fleet sales, I mean what fleet manager wants to have 380 sedans and Commodore/Falcon sedans. They want a consistent image.

The ABC should be sued or killed, or something. What an absolute joke.

Breaking news: The Queen of England dies.

Disclaimer: No one researched this fact, we simply heard it as a rumour and printed it.

^ Well lets not have the salem witch trials just yet, I highly doubt the ABC investigative unit found nothing, there has to be some boundaries on media etiquette, and usually the ABC does not dabble in crass journalism.

I think that Project Phoenix does exist, and I do think MMAL would have exit strategies for the Tonsley plant.

However having an off the shelf exit strategy and actually implimenting that strategy are two different things.

There are plenty of other rumours that the media should look at off the grapevine- probably the rumours of a due diligence review performed at Holden last year might be a good place to start.

He was less forthcoming about the possibility of a Ralliart-badged 380 sedan, but was openly excited by the prospect and did not rule out the possibility of all-wheel drive returning to Mitsubishi’s large-car ****nal.

"The 380 will be at the peak of its ability – any more power and we’d have to go to AWD," he said. "AWD is not in the plan (for 380), but of course Mitsubishi has the technology... and we have turbo technology too.

"But first 380 must be successful. We’ll see how well it goes before we re-evaluate."


http://www.goauto.com.au/mellor/mellor.nsf/story2/BACE736C086D5FB5CA25706700181342?OpenDocument

my have been posted before but kind exciting that someone from mitsubishi said 380 awd and tubo in the one sentance

He was less forthcoming about the possibility of a Ralliart-badged 380 sedan, but was openly excited by the prospect and did not rule out the possibility of all-wheel drive returning to Mitsubishi’s large-car ****nal.

"The 380 will be at the peak of its ability – any more power and we’d have to go to AWD," he said. "AWD is not in the plan (for 380), but of course Mitsubishi has the technology... and we have turbo technology too.

"But first 380 must be successful. We’ll see how well it goes before we re-evaluate."


http://www.goauto.com.au/mellor/mellor.nsf/story2/BACE736C086D5FB5CA25706700181342?OpenDocument

my have been posted before but kind exciting that someone from mitsubishi said 380 awd and tubo in the one sentance
Wasn't that said way back as it was released? 380 hasn't been selling enough to warrant it i wouldn't think.

if they had have made it a turbo or an AWD it wouldn't have been so crap!

if they had have made it a turbo or an AWD it wouldn't have been so crap!

Great attitude mate :blah:

Great attitude mate :blah:

I have to agree that AWD would have made it better. That and slimmer headlights like the TJ. The reason it looks so good is because it looks mean. The 380 has big bright wide open headlights, just doesn't look scary at all.

Look at a front on shot of a black TJ VRX and look at a front on shot of a black 380 VRX.

Which looks meaner?

if they had have made it a turbo or an AWD it wouldn't have been so crap!

Considering the 380 is better in everyway then the Magna (except maybe looks for some people) I can't see how it is crap. :D

Considering the 380 is better in everyway then the Magna (except maybe looks for some people) I can't see how it is crap. :D

Better in every way? Explain...

There is no wagon

No AWD

No power difference between the base model and the top model.

How is that better in every way!?

Better in every way? Explain...

There is no wagon

No AWD

No power difference between the base model and the top model.

How is that better in every way!?

Comparing sedan to sedan(as there is no wagon):
-it's safer,
-more powerfull (bar the limited ralliart edition),
-handles better,
-more interior room,
-less emissions,
-supposedly better fit and finish,
-And it has better brakes standard.

Thats how it is better. :P

Been away from the forums lately so sorry if it's a repeat, but when those two police cars collided recently, it was reported (on either 7 or 9) that two unmarked cars, one a Holden Commodore and the other a Mitsubishi Magna' collided.

They showed the footage and it was clearly (well to AMC'ers anyway) a 380.

It just shows:

*How inefficient Mitsubishi's marketing is, and

*How well known the Magna name was....why change a household name - obviously they thought it was beyond salvation from the "cardigan" reputation.

I hardly ever hear "380" it's always the "New Magna"...anyways...

Let's face it, they stuffed up.