To maximise interest in their new Colt supermini, Mitsubishi have created the launch edition Colt Black. This entry-level model is priced at £7,999 on the road and as its name suggests, it only comes in one colour, that of black. This could prove to be quite a clever move by Mitsubishi as it will make the cheapest model in the range highly desireable both in terms of looks and enconomics.

Available in five door form only, the Colt Black is offered with a 75bhp 1.1-litre three-cylinder petrol engine allied to a five speed manual gearbox. The unit develops 74bhp at 6,000rpm, propelling the lively Colt to a maximum speed of 103mph. The sprint timing from 0 to 62mph in 13.4 seconds is reasonable, if not spectacular, for a car of this size.

This entry-level Colt has a few extras to tempt the buyer and set it apart from the other models in the range, namely remote central locking, front powered windows and a radio CD player along with standard safety features such as driver and front passenger airbags. But the visual difference is the sporty-looking red upholstery of the seats that complements the contemporary design of the interior.

By giving the Colt Black its very own distinctive style, Mitsubishi are looking to create a demand for the entry level car from which the other models in the range should benefit. It's an interesting stategy and one that deserves to succeed.