2008 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS

Performance

DE, ES and GTS models all run a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The brand new motor is rated at 152 horsepower (@ 6,000 rpm) and 146 lb.-ft. of torque (@ 4,250 rpm). Those figures are up 32 and 16, respectively, over the former version. Cars bound for California, New York and other states with similar emissions standards make do with a little less: 143 hp and 143 lb. ft.


But, even less is still considerably more than before. Zero to sixty mph times are the benchmark for measuring performance. In the compact class, speeds are more apt to be measured with a sundial than a stopwatch. That said, the new Lancer will run from 0-60 in under eight seconds. That's considerably quicker than last year's version, and in the ballpark with its peers. In practical terms, there's enough power for all driving duties. The standard rules for all small displacement motors apply here: passing takes planning and, in order to get the most out of the car's potential, the driver often has to mat the throttle and use the gears to wind out the engine.


The five-speed stick has a positive feel and a short stroke. Lancer is also available with a Continuously Variable Transmission—a first for Mitsubishi, in the North American market. The 6-step Sportronic can be shifted manually via paddles mounted on the steering wheel. Fuel economy is respectable, regardless of transmission choice. The CVT equipped Lancer gets an EPA estimated 22 mpg city, 29 highway. The 2.0/stick combo in our GTS tester is rated at 21/29, and we logged 26 mpg overall.

Handling

The motor rolls in a platform that's been widened by 2.3 inches front and back, with a slightly longer (1.4-inch) wheelbase. Lancer's unibody design is some 56 percent stiffer than the previous generation. The suspension (MacPherson strut front/multi-link rear) is lighter and stiffer this time around, with a lowered roll center. GTS models get beefed-up stabilizer bars fore and aft, along with sport tuning for spring rates and shock damping force. The result is fine, flat handling and a comfortable road ride. The slightly larger steering rack offers improved feel through the steering wheel. Lancer GTS has go-cart like reflexes and a stable, planted feel when cornering.


Competitors like Civic and Corolla are fielding mid-cycle cars for 2008, while the Mitsubishi is all-new. While not as refined as those entries, Lancer is—particularly in GTS trim—an interesting alternative. For $18,115, the sportiest Lancer (for now) has edgy good looks, a comfortable cabin, and a fun-to-drive chassis. Mitsubishi didn't plan on launching their latest Lancer on a different cycle than the competition, but it certainly doesn't hurt the new car's chances of getting on the radar of compact car buyers. (www.mitsubishicars.com)