Plymouth Colt Vista: Price, Mileage, Features, Specs, Variants, Engine, Interior, History & More

Brief Introduction of Plymouth Colt Vista

The Plymouth Colt Vista was a versatile multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) that offered a unique blend of station wagon utility and minivan-like space. As a captive import manufactured by Mitsubishi Motors in Japan, it was marketed under the Plymouth brand in North America. The Colt Vista was noteworthy for its space-efficient design, flexible seating arrangements, and the availability of four-wheel drive, making it a popular choice for families and individuals seeking a practical and adaptable vehicle. Spanning two distinct generations, the Colt Vista evolved in terms of design, powertrain, and features, leaving a lasting impression in the compact van segment before its discontinuation. It was also sold as the Dodge Colt Vista and Eagle Vista Wagon at various times, showcasing its adaptable platform.

Plymouth Colt Vista Overview

Generations and History of Plymouth Colt Vista

First Generation (1984–1991)

The first generation of the Plymouth Colt Vista was introduced in 1984 and was essentially a rebadged Mitsubishi Chariot (also known as the Space Wagon in other markets). This model was a pioneer in the minivan/MPV segment with its tall, boxy design that maximized interior space on a compact footprint. It featured a sliding rear passenger door on one side, which was a novel feature at the time. The interior was highly versatile, with seating for up to seven passengers in some configurations, and the rear seats could be folded down or removed to create a large cargo area. Early models were powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four engine, and both front-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive variants were available, the latter being a significant selling point for those in snowy climates. The transmission choices were typically a 5-speed manual or a 3-speed automatic.

Second Generation (1992–1994)

The second generation of the Plymouth Colt Vista debuted in 1992, again based on the new generation of the Mitsubishi Expo LRV. This iteration featured a more rounded and aerodynamic design compared to its predecessor. It was marketed as a “mini-minivan” and offered five-passenger seating. The second generation saw upgrades in powertrains, with a standard 1.8-liter 16-valve four-cylinder engine producing 113 horsepower. An optional and later standard on higher trims 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine was also available, initially offering 116 horsepower, which was later increased to 136 horsepower. Transmission options were an updated 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual. Both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions continued to be offered. The Plymouth Colt Vista was discontinued after the 1994 model year as Chrysler focused on its own highly successful Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager minivans.

Plymouth Colt Vista Facelifts and Yearly Updates

Plymouth Colt Vista Variants and Features

The Plymouth Colt Vista was offered in a few key variants throughout its production run, catering to different needs and budgets. The base models provided a no-frills, practical vehicle with standard features for the time. The SE (Special Edition) trim typically added more comfort and convenience features, such as upgraded upholstery, more comprehensive instrumentation, and sometimes a more powerful engine as standard. The most distinct variant was the AWD (All-Wheel Drive) model, which provided enhanced traction and stability in adverse weather conditions, a significant feature for its class. Interior features across the range were focused on practicality, with cloth bucket seats, and in later models, split-folding rear seats for cargo versatility. Optional features included an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player, air conditioning, and remote keyless entry on higher trims.

Plymouth Colt Vista Engine, Performance, and Driving Experience

The driving experience of the Plymouth Colt Vista was generally characterized by its practicality and ease of use rather than thrilling performance. The engine lineup provided adequate power for daily driving and commuting. The first generation’s 2.0-liter engine and the second generation’s base 1.8-liter engine were focused on fuel economy. The optional 2.4-liter engine in the second generation offered a welcome increase in power, making acceleration and highway cruising more comfortable, especially when the vehicle was fully loaded. The availability of a 5-speed manual transmission appealed to drivers who preferred more engagement, while the automatic transmissions offered convenience in city driving. The suspension was tuned for a comfortable ride, absorbing most road imperfections well. Handling was predictable and safe, though not particularly sporty, which was in line with its purpose as a family-oriented vehicle. The AWD models provided a notable advantage in slippery conditions, enhancing driver confidence.

Plymouth Colt Vista Pricing and Mileage

The Plymouth Colt Vista was positioned as an affordable and economical family vehicle. In the early 1990s, the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) ranged from approximately $11,397 for a base model to over $13,114 for a well-equipped SE or AWD variant. In terms of fuel efficiency, the Colt Vista delivered respectable figures for its size and era. First-generation models with the 2.0-liter engine and four-wheel drive had an EPA rating of around 19 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The second-generation models were slightly more efficient, with the 1.8-liter front-wheel-drive version achieving around 24 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The more powerful 2.4-liter engine in the second generation provided slightly lower mileage, in the range of 19-22 MPG in the city and 23-27 MPG on the highway, depending on the drivetrain. These figures made the Colt Vista a relatively inexpensive vehicle to run for its class.

Plymouth Colt Vista Colors, Design, and Dimensions

The Plymouth Colt Vista was available in a variety of exterior colors, including both metallic and solid finishes, such as Light Blue Metallic, Silver Metallic, Dark Green Pearl Metallic, and Bright White. The exterior design of the first generation was very much a product of its time, with a boxy, utilitarian shape that prioritized interior volume. The second generation adopted a more contemporary, rounded aesthetic. The interior design was straightforward and functional, with an emphasis on durability and user-friendliness. In terms of dimensions, the first-generation Colt Vista had an overall length of 176.6 inches, a width of 64.8 inches, and a height of up to 62.4 inches. The second generation was slightly more compact in length at 168.5 inches but wider at 66.7 inches and had a similar height of 62.1 inches. These dimensions contributed to a spacious interior while maintaining a manageable exterior size for easy parking and maneuvering.

Plymouth Colt Vista Safety Features

• Airbags: A driver-side airbag was introduced in the 1994 model year.
• ABS / EBD: Four-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS) were available on some models.
• Electronic Stability Control: Not available.
• Crash Test Ratings: The 1993 and 1994 models received a 3-star rating for the driver and a 5-star rating for the front passenger in NHTSA frontal crash tests.
• Other advanced safety systems: Later models featured side-impact door beams for added protection. Front and rear crumple zones were also an integral part of the design.

Plymouth Colt Vista Infotainment and Connectivity

The infotainment and connectivity features in the Plymouth Colt Vista were basic, reflecting the automotive standards of the 1980s and early 1990s. The standard audio system was a simple AM/FM radio. A cassette player was a common and popular optional upgrade, often bundled with four speakers for improved sound quality. Advanced features that are common today, such as touchscreens, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity, were not available during the Colt Vista’s production years. The focus was on providing fundamental in-car entertainment rather than the sophisticated connectivity and infotainment systems found in modern vehicles. USB ports and wireless charging were also not available.

Plymouth Colt Vista Owner Reviews & Ratings

Owner reviews for the Plymouth Colt Vista have generally been positive over the years, with many praising its reliability, versatility, and fuel efficiency. Owners of the 1994 model, for example, have given it high marks for value and comfort. Common points of praise include the surprisingly spacious interior for its compact size, the utility of the folding and removable rear seats, and the confident handling of the all-wheel-drive models in inclement weather. Some owners have reported that their Colt Vistas have provided reliable service for well over 200,000 miles with regular maintenance. Criticisms tend to focus on the somewhat underpowered nature of the base engines, particularly when the vehicle is carrying a full load of passengers and cargo. Some owners have also mentioned that parts can be difficult to find due to the vehicle’s age and the fact that it was a captive import. Overall, the sentiment is that the Colt Vista was a practical and dependable vehicle that served its purpose well.

Plymouth Colt Vista Comparison with Similar Cars

During its time, the Plymouth Colt Vista competed with other early minivans and tall wagons such as the Nissan Axxess, the Mitsubishi Expo (its sibling vehicle), and to some extent, the Honda Civic Wagon. Compared to these competitors, the Colt Vista offered a compelling package with the availability of seven-passenger seating in the first generation and the option of four-wheel drive, which was not always available on its rivals. The Nissan Axxess was a close competitor with a similar sliding door concept. The Mitsubishi Expo was nearly identical, with the main differences being badging and minor trim variations. Against the more car-like Honda Civic Wagon, the Colt Vista offered significantly more interior space and a more van-like driving position. In terms of price, the Colt Vista was generally competitive, offering good value for the space and features it provided.

Plymouth Colt Vista Awards and Recognition

• Information not disclosed

Interesting Facts about Plymouth Colt Vista

• The Plymouth Colt Vista was part of a lineup of “captive imports” sold by Chrysler, which were manufactured by Mitsubishi in Japan. This was a common practice among American automakers in the 1980s and 1990s to offer a broader range of vehicles.
• The first-generation Colt Vista’s combination of a tall roofline, available four-wheel drive, and flexible seating made it a precursor to the modern crossover SUV.
• The vehicle was also marketed as the Dodge Colt Vista and later the Eagle Vista Wagon in Canada, showcasing its platform’s versatility across different Chrysler brands.

Plymouth Colt Vista Legacy and Influence

The Plymouth Colt Vista, along with its Mitsubishi and Dodge counterparts, played a significant role in popularizing the concept of a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) in the North American market. Its space-efficient design and versatile interior demonstrated that a smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicle could still meet the needs of a growing family. While it was ultimately overshadowed by Chrysler’s own larger and immensely popular minivans, the Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager, the Colt Vista’s innovative features, such as the sliding door and available all-wheel drive, influenced the design of future minivans and crossover vehicles. It served as an important bridge between traditional station wagons and the burgeoning minivan segment, leaving a legacy of practicality and forward-thinking design.

Plymouth Colt Vista Global Availability

The Plymouth Colt Vista was primarily available in the North American market, specifically the United States and Canada. As it was manufactured in Japan by Mitsubishi, it was an imported vehicle for these markets. The vehicle was produced in left-hand drive configuration for North America. Its platform twin, the Mitsubishi Chariot/Space Wagon, was available in many other markets around the world, including Japan, Europe, and parts of Asia, in both left-hand and right-hand drive configurations. However, the Plymouth-badged version was exclusive to North America.

Plymouth Colt Vista Maintenance and Ownership Costs

Ownership costs for the Plymouth Colt Vista were generally considered to be reasonable due to its good fuel economy and the reliability of its Mitsubishi-sourced mechanical components. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes and tune-ups, was straightforward and comparable to other compact vehicles of its era. However, as the vehicle has aged, finding certain specific parts can be a challenge and may require sourcing from specialty suppliers or salvage yards. Some owners have reported needing to replace components like the CV joints and dealing with rust in certain areas, particularly in regions with harsh winters. The resale value of the Plymouth Colt Vista is relatively low due to its age and the discontinuation of the Plymouth brand. Warranty details at the time of sale were in line with industry standards but are no longer applicable to these vehicles today.

Final Words about Plymouth Colt Vista

The Plymouth Colt Vista stands as a testament to practical and efficient automotive design. It was a vehicle that successfully blended the best attributes of a station wagon and a minivan into a compact and affordable package. For buyers at the time, it offered a compelling combination of interior space, versatility, and available all-wheel-drive traction. While it may not have achieved the same level of sales success as its larger stablemates, the Colt Vista was a well-regarded vehicle that served its owners faithfully. Its legacy is that of an innovative and practical MPV that helped to shape the future of family transportation. For those seeking a unique and functional classic vehicle, a well-maintained Plymouth Colt Vista can still be a charming and useful find.