DETROIT — The turbocharged 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart — Evo Lite to some — made its much-anticipated global debut on Sunday at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show. When it arrives in showrooms in the summer, it is expected to carry a price tag around $25,000 and be positioned squarely between the Lancer and Lancer Evo X models.
The five-passenger Lancer Ralliart gets Mitsubishi's new 2.0-liter DOHC MIVEC engine that the company said develops an estimated 235 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque. The only transmission option is the twin-clutch SST gearbox that gives the driver the option of paddle shifting, although a true manual might be more appreciated by the tuner crowd.
Aggressive styling is achieved with a dual-outlet muffler, a lightweight aluminum ducted hood that allows cool air to flow to the turbocharger and a rear bumper cover.
Giving the Ralliart constant traction is full-time 4WD featuring an Active Center Differential. It vectors drive torque to the front and rear depending on the driving surface, and also allows the driver to choose from Tarmac, Gravel and Snow driving modes. This is said to give the best steering response and traction possible for conditions.
Optional equipment will include Recaro seats, HID headlights, a 650-watt Rockford Fosgate nine-speaker audio system, Sirius Satellite Radio, a power sunroof and a 30GB hard drive navigation system.
What this means to you: With a rally-inspired design and sporty performance at a very affordable price, this "Diet" Evo provides some healthy competition for Subaru. — Mike Lysaght, Correspondent
The five-passenger Lancer Ralliart gets Mitsubishi's new 2.0-liter DOHC MIVEC engine that the company said develops an estimated 235 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque. The only transmission option is the twin-clutch SST gearbox that gives the driver the option of paddle shifting, although a true manual might be more appreciated by the tuner crowd.
Aggressive styling is achieved with a dual-outlet muffler, a lightweight aluminum ducted hood that allows cool air to flow to the turbocharger and a rear bumper cover.
Giving the Ralliart constant traction is full-time 4WD featuring an Active Center Differential. It vectors drive torque to the front and rear depending on the driving surface, and also allows the driver to choose from Tarmac, Gravel and Snow driving modes. This is said to give the best steering response and traction possible for conditions.
Optional equipment will include Recaro seats, HID headlights, a 650-watt Rockford Fosgate nine-speaker audio system, Sirius Satellite Radio, a power sunroof and a 30GB hard drive navigation system.
What this means to you: With a rally-inspired design and sporty performance at a very affordable price, this "Diet" Evo provides some healthy competition for Subaru. — Mike Lysaght, Correspondent
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