The first generation of the car, initially known as the Colt Galant, was released in December 1969. The design was dubbed "Dynawedge" by Mitsubishi, referring to the influence of aerodynamics on the silhouette. Three models were available, powered by the new 'Saturn' engine

Mitsubishi Saturn engine

The Mitsubishi Saturn or 4G3 engine is series of straight-4 internal combustion engines introduced by Mitsubishi Motors in 1969, along with the Astron, Orion, and Sirius. Displacement ranges from 1.2 L to 1.8 L.-4G30:...

 in 1.3 (AI model) or 1.5 L (AII and AIII) configurations. 1.4 and 1.6 litre versions (14L and 16L) replaced these in September 1971, and a larger 1.7 followed in January 1973.