Abandoned History: Chrysler and the Colt, Captive Economical Import Time (Part II)
Chrysler had its first involvement with Mitsubishi Motors Corporation in 1971. With a considerable stock purchase by Chrysler, the two companies' long-lived captive import cooperation began. Introduced immediately to Americans in 1971 as the Dodge Colt, the nameplate was on its second generation by 1977.
Source: thetruthaboutcars.com