Mitsubishi Lancer Overview

The Lancer is available in three front-wheel drive trim levels - DE, ES and GTS - and one all-wheel drive Ralliart trim. The DE and ES are equipped with a 148-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, while the GTS gets a more powerful 168-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine; a five-speed manual transmission is standard, and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) is optional. The Ralliart boasts a 237-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, paired to a six-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift transmission (TC-SST) with paddle shifters. Building on the value-oriented DE trim, the ES is equipped with a 60/40 split folding rear seat, air conditioning, cruise control and an auxiliary audio input jack; GTS trims are further outfitted with a rear wing spoiler, fog lights, sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, Bluetooth wireless connectivity and a FAST-key passive entry system. The Ralliart gets an even more exclusive treatment, showcasing unique exterior and interior trim elements, as well as satellite radio. Standard safety features on every Lancer include stability and traction control systems, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes with brake assist, active anti-whiplash front head restraints and a tire pressure monitor, along with front, front side-impact, overhead curtain and driver's side knee airbags.

After a refresh last year, the Mitsubishi Lancer carries over with minimal changes for 2011. The DE and ES models get electric power-assisted steering and Brake Energy Regeneration for improved fuel economy, while GTS and Ralliart models are outfitted with Mitsubishi's FUSE hands-free communication system, including voice-activated audio streaming and a USB port.