2012 Mitsubishi i MiEV

Mitsubishi has seen the future, and it's green. Instead of pursuing development of the sports cars and SUVs long associated with the brand, the company is pursuing a portfolio of small, efficient--and sometimes electric--automobiles. Case in point? The new electric i, which finally arrives stateside for the 2012 model year. Although bumpers, headlamps, and other small details are unique to the U.S.-spec car, the i's dimensions and specs largely mirror those of its Japanese sibling. The egg-shaped EV is undeniably small, although its cabin offers a surprising amount of room for four. SE models toss in amenities like a two-tone interior, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and argent interior trim. Apart from the eerie lack of engine noise, the i drives like most other, larger subcompact hatchbacks, despite its physical dimensions. Predictably, the i's nimble steering and slight frame are boons in urban gridlock; cruising at highway speeds produces more wind noise, a somewhat nervous ride quality, and a decrease in total range. On that note, Mitsubishi says the i's lithium-ion battery pack provides 85 miles of travel on a single charge. With a 120-volt charging cord, a full charge should take twenty-two hours; upgrade to an optional 240-volt charger, and that time drops to six hours. ES models add a connector for level 3 quick charging (an 80-percent charge takes only thirty minutes), but few such stations are installed nationwide. Competitors may offer more range and more space, but the i is still an affable little EV.