The latest expression of Mitsubishi Motors' recovery from its DaimlerChrysler addiction is the 2008 Lancer. With the company's net income "in the black" and positive response to new products in Japan, Mitsubishi appears poised to regain some of the prestige its products enjoyed in the '90s.
Mitsubishi officials praised the synergy between other companies in the huge Mitsubishi family for its current momentum. To demonstrate there is no sibling rivalry within the brand, the new Lancer shared the stage today at the Detroit Auto Show introduction with a concept of its high-performance big brother, the Lancer Evo, and the original Lancer rally car from the '70s.
Acknowledging that American sales of the new Lancer are critical to its continued rebound, Mitsubishi developed an all-new 2.0-liter engine rated at 152 horsepower and will offer an optional continuously variable transmission (CVT) in place of an automatic tranny. A 6-step Sportronic feature that allows "manual" shifts with a steering wheel paddle will be included in the sporty GTS trim level. The 2008 Lancer will also be the first vehicle sold in the U.S. to follow the new EPA mileage estimating tests.
The Lancer's design is a reflection of new Mitsubishi styling cues first seen on the 2007 Outlander as well as the Concept X car first seen in 2005. There's a distinctive European flair with the narrow headlamps and "shark nose" grille. The overall size is longer and wider than the previous generation, opening up more interior room and contributing to better handling. The 2008 Lancer comes in three trim levels: DE, ES and GTS. The ES will be distinguished by color-keyed door handles and chrome grille surround. The GTS will show off 18-inch wheels, front and side air dams and a rear spoiler.
One of the more distinctive features is the techno-art taillamp cluster that simulates LED lighting and complements the "chopped off" appearance of the tail section. The Lancer also gets a new selection of colors and crisper interior design. Mitsubishi's commitment to performance is evident throughout the Lancer family. The new C-segment platform, also first seen on the Outlander, features a stiffer chassis, MacPherson strut front suspension and a new trailing-arm, multi-link setup in the rear.
The Lancer also comes with Mitsu's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and 5-year/60,000 bumper-to-bumper warranty.
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