Super Sport Car Evolution: Mitsubishi

Showing posts with label Mitsubishi. Show all posts

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

2011 MITSUBISHI RVR GT LUXURY CONCEPT SPORTS CARS

The 2011 Mitsubishi RVR is an all-new vehicle from Misubishi. The Mitsubishi RVR name is to distinguish it from the Outlander, with which it shares its platform and wheelbase. However, the RVR yields 37 cm in overall length, 3 cm in width and 9 cm in height to its larger sibling. The 2011 Mitsubishi RVR seats five, two fewer than the Outlander, and is between 160 and 235 kg lighter, depending on the model. Mitsubishi categorizes the RVR as a compact crossover vehicle and offers it in SE, SE AWC and GT AWC trims.

2011 Mitsubishi RVR

Front access is easy though you have to watch out for the relatively wide doorsills on the way in and out. Despite the absence of adjustable lumbar support, the front seats prove very comfortable. The tilt-and-telescoping steering column allows the driver to obtain a very good driving position. Headroom and legroom are fairly generous, but very tall people will find that the seats do not slide far enough back. Access to the back is relatively easy, and the seat is comfortable for two adults. Legroom is adequate, but a tall person�s head touches the headliner. The 60/40-split seatback folds almost flat, and both sections recline to a 17- or 23-degree angle. GT trim includes a small ski pass-through in the 60-section of the seatback. Cargo capacity is good, with 82 cm behind the rear seatback in the upright position, and 159 cm behind the front seats when they are pushed back as far as possible. Width is 99 cm and height, 74.5 cm. The liftgate opens high and it is in one section, not two like the Outlander�s.

2011 Mitsubishi RVR

Safety Features
The cabin is nicely finished, but the quality of materials is just adequate and some plastics look cheap. The cabin is relatively quiet, except in heavy acceleration. There are several good storage spaces. Gauges and controls are well laid out, with the exception of the seat heater controls. Placed far back on the console-side of the front seats, they are very hard to reach. Several controls are not lighted at night. The heating system works well. It is interesting to note that the height of the headlights can be adjusted to compensate for load.

Safety equipment includes seven air bags (two front, two side, one for the driver�s knees, two curtain), antilock brakes, emergency brake assist, brake override (which ensures that the brake pedal always has priority over the accelerator pedal if the two are depressed simultaneously), good headlights, and five head restraints. Visibility is very good in all directions for most drivers, except on a three-quarter-rear angle. It is hard to judge distances when backing up. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the RVR a Good rating, its highest, for driver protection in a frontal offset collision, and for the protection of all occupants in the event of a side crash.

2011 Mitsubishi RVR

Engine and transmission
To drive the front wheels (or all four, depending on the model), the engineers called on the 2.0-litre 4-cylinder that develops 148 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque, for this vehicle. For the time being, it�s the only available engine, but Mitsubishi apparently is open to the idea of offering another one if there�s enough demand. Performance is adequate for most everyday driving. You can obtain a bit more pickup by putting the pedal to the floor and playing with manual mode, but you still risk disappointment. Passing requires forethought, and hilly terrain may task your patience. The CVT continuously variable automatic transmission functions very smoothly at all times. However, it is a bit slow driving off from a stop. It has a manual mode with six �virtual� gears that you can shift using two column-mounted paddles on the GT, or a shift lever on the other models.

2011 Mitsubishi RVR Interior

Models equipped with the AWC (All Wheel Control) drive system offer a choice of three driving modes: 2WD, 4WD AUTO, and 4WD LOCK. In 4WD mode the system is always engaged and can dispatch torque laterally on each axle. The system is efficient in all conditions.

Bolted to the rigid chassis is a four-wheel independent suspension. It provides a very smooth ride on most surfaces. On some uneven surfaces the reaction is quite firm, but this same firmness delivers good road holding, for the type of vehicle, and a solid feel. Though initially a bit heavy at low speed, the electrically assisted steering proves stable, precise and fairly quick. Unfortunately, it provides very little road feel. The turning circle is normal. In normal braking, the brakes work well but came up short in our test vehicle in emergency stops.

Our inspection at a CAA-Quebec technical inspection centre showed that the Mitsubishi RVR rests on a sturdy platform that is well protected against corrosion. The side-by-side positioning of the wiper washer fluid and coolant tanks in the engine compartment could be confusing. The fuel vapour recuperator and fuel tank filler pipe are very exposed to damage. There are three tie-down hooks in front and one in the back that can be used to secure a canoe, for example, on the roof. Mitsubishi forbids towing with this vehicle. The engine�s overhead camshafts are chain driven.

By shrinking the Outlander to create the 2011 Mitsubishi RVR, Mitsubishi has created a small yet versatile and comfortable vehicle that�s agile and handles well. The RVR will attract people for whom engine power is not a top priority. Towing is banned because of its modest engine power. But when it comes to road comportment, the RVR comes out a winner.

2011 Mitsubishi Pajero High Performance and Technologie

Here at Mitsubishi, we love our cars. We love their superior quality, what they stand for, and what they�re capable of. And we want you to feel the same way. It�s why we strive for the highest standards in everything we do, and it�s why we back all our vehicles with our Mitsubishi Diamond Advantage, Australia�s Best New Car Warranty, Capped Price Servicing and Customer Care. Mitsubishi delivers the latest and greatest in 4WD technology, style, sophistication and unquestionable reliability, giving you the confidence to go anywhere and take on almost anything. Whether you need a tough workhorse, serious off-roader or a more premium luxury model, Mitsubishi�s leading range of rally-proven vehicles has the 4WD for you. Without a doubt we believe the 2011 Mitsubishi Pajero will make all other 4WDs seem second best.

2011 Mitsubishi Pajero

When you buy a 2011 Mitsubishi Pajero or any vehicle from our range, you�re buying a vehicle that�s backed by world-class research, technical innovation, and leading performance. In every area of our business we�re continually focussed on four key values, we never fail to create superior vehicles that people love. We�ll design attention-grabbing vehicles with real street presence and genuine performance. We�ll continue to develop ground-breaking technology that focuses on better control, performance and lifestyle. This includes innovations such as our MIVEC engine technology, our intercooler-turbocharged diesel engine and our leading Mitsubishi Multi Communication System. We�re committed to raising the bar in terms of safety,
which gives peace of mind to all occupants. Our Mitsubishi Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE)
body design remains at the heart of our vehicle safety philosophy.

2011 Mitsubishi Pajero

The Mitsubishi Pajero has been part of Australia�s greatest adventures since 1983. From Uluru to the Bungle Bungles, and, more importantly, back again. The Pajero boasts advanced, powerful, fuel-efficient engines through a 3.8 litre MIVEC petrol and a powerful new 3.2 litre Common Rail turbo diesel. All Pajeros are equipped with MATT (Mitsubishi All Terrain Technology), and a multitude of advanced driver confidence systems. Pajero also boasts a tough RISE (Reinforced ImpactSafety Evolution) monocoque body design for
outstanding protection plus the availability of safety features such as side and curtain SRS airbags, reversing sensors and reversing camera.

2011 Mitsubishi Pajero

Every innovation in this next generation 4WD has been developed so you can enjoy a better driving experience; from the hard-working GL and GL X, the stylish GL S, to the sporty VR X, and the luxury of the premium Exceed model, every Pajero delivers high levels of advanced technology and driver confidence systems. Experience your adventure in the best Pajero ever.

Take a look at the luxury interior of the 2011 Pajero and ask yourself if this isn�t how you want to enjoy your next on-road-off-road adventure. Everything is at your fingertips. And your passengers will be more comfortable too, with state of the art entertainment and climate control to make long trips more enjoyable. For everyone. Long family drives just got shorter with a 9� fullcolour panoramic screen, which includes two infrared cordless headphones so your rear passengers can watch a DVD and not bother other passengers. They can even plug into an auxiliary jack that is compatible with multi-media devices such as game consoles and digital cameras.

2011 Mitsubishi Pajero

The people, the journey. These are our inspiration, our driving force for the latest and greatest technology. Every next-generation innovation has been developed so that both driver and passengers enjoy an improved Pajero driving experience. With a choice of two powerful, efficient engines, Pajero has never been better equipped for your off-road and on-road adventures. The very latest in diesel engine technology delivers
power without compromise. The new 3.2 litre Common Rail turbo-charged diesel yields not only next generation quietness, smoothness, fuel efficiency and emission reduction through an advanced common
rail system, but delivers 147kW of power and 441Nm of grunty torque.

The 3.8 litre V6 MIVEC engine (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing and lift Electronic Control) offers the latest technology with a lighter engine and intelligent valve timing technology to deliver improved fuel efficiency
and lower emissions, while providing improved driveability. The MIVEC engine matches your driving
style to minimise fuel consumption at lower revs while increasing air flow at high revs for greater performance
up to an awesome 184kW. Pajero�s impressive power and torque ensure you can tow your boat, caravan or trailer with supreme confidence. 5 door models now have a mammoth 3000kg* towing capacity.

2011 Pajero offers a choice of intelligent transmissions perfectly matched to either engine and your preferred driving style. A smooth-shifting 5-speed, all syncromesh manual gearbox delivers the ultimate hands-on driving experience. Or if you prefer automatic, the INVEC S II �Smart Logic� 5-speed automatic transmission with Sports Mode will be sure to provide the control you need. Sports Mode allows you to manually shift gears
without using a clutch. The advantage is that this clutch-free operation reduces rev and torque loss usually associated with engaging gears, maintaining precious momentum in off-road situations.

To provide smoother shifting, the INVEC S II �Smart Logic� transmission system�s on-board computer learns and adapts to each driver�s preferences by recording engine and foot braking data. The control logic then adapts the gearshift timing to suit the driver�s style. You�ll have effortless acceleration and a more predictable ride. Derived from technology tested in the brutal Dakar rally, MATT operates using intelligent sensors which constantly monitor your vehicle�s wheel speeds, g-forces and yaw rates. Pajero�s computer then processes this data and matches it to driver intentions via steering wheel and throttle sensors to provide optimum driving performance.

Pajero lets you alternate between 4WD and 2WD modes � the choice of around town fuel efficiency and off-road traction. You can change between modes at speeds of up to 100 kilometres per hour on any surface.
2H (2WD HIGH RANGE )2H shifts you into rear-wheel drive for fuel-efficient performance. 4H (FUL -TIME 4WD) Get added traction in 4H mode. The dynamic front/rear torque split adjusts between 33:67 and 50:50 for greater control in high-speed driving.

Standard Supplementary Restraint System (SRS) airbags on all models provide essential protection in the event of a frontal collision. For optimal protection of driver and passengers front and back in the event of a side-on collision. The side airbags inflate from the side of the seat and the curtain airbags activate from the roof.

Mitsubishi�s visibility concept combines many features to give you greater visibility while ensuring other drivers are aware of your Pajero on the road. Part of the Mitsubishi Multi Communication System, Pajero�s reversing camera supports the driver�s rear field of view, automatically appearing on screen when the reverse gear is engaged. It makes parking easy and offers increased safety and peace of mind when you�re backing in or out of driveways.

Mitsubis hi Multi Comm unication System (MMCS) MMCS gives you total control over everything you need, all in one place and all easily accessible via the 7" full colour in-dash touch screen. It really is the
ultimate total control system, with:

Always find your way with the easy touch screen satellite navigation system. You can store frequently used
addresses and search for points of interest like local restaurants, hotels or service stations. The driver�s rear field of view can be seen on screen when the reverse gear is engaged. Combined with reversing sensors, it makes parking a breeze. While your iPod is charging in the glovebox, you can access and control all of its music through the MMCS touch screen�s iPod interface. As you drive, the rear passengers can watch a DVD which is controlled from MMCS. When the car is stationary, DVDs can be viewed from both the front and rear seats. Getting the sound just right is easy with pre-set equaliser styles like rock, pop and jazz; you can also set your own. There are even surround sound modes to create effects such as cinema, live, club and studio for a superior audio experience. Integrated through the vehicle�s audio system, the Bluetooth phone connectivity lets you have hands-free phone calls so you can stay focused on the road.

Actively monitoring your journey, Pajero�s multifunction display can provide endless information about your environment. A barometer to help track weather conditions and keep you comfortable, an altimeter to show you how high you�ve climbed, a compass to point you in the right direction and average vehicle speed and fuel consumption calculations to name a few. Delivering a massive 860 watts with 12 surround-sound Dolby 5.1 channel speakers and an integrated 10" subwoofer. All of which can be controlled from the steering wheel. Pajero has the sound to match its looks. Why should the driver have all the fun?

Pajero rear-seat passengers can enjoy sophisticated in-car entertainment with their very own DVD player
and 9" full-colour screen. Game console compatible, it includes two infrared cordless headphones. As passengers watch a DVD, the rest of the car can listen to music, or simply tune out and take in the surrounding scenery.

2011 Mitsubishi Galant Engine Performace

The Galant offers sportiness and comfort that you won't find in any other midsize family sedan in this price range...� Comfort at every level, starting with your wallet. Offering the quality you�ve come to expect, at a price that will pleasantly surprise you, the 2011 Mitsubishi Galant SE even comes packed with an estimated $1700 worth of features that won�t cost you any extra. That�s the kind of exceptional value that makes Galant different for a reason. The 2011 Mitsubishi Galant is a 4-door, 5-passenger family sedan, available in two trims, the ES and the SE. Upon introduction, both trims are equipped with a standard 2.4-liter, I4, 160-horsepower engine that achieves 21-mpg in the city and 30-mpg on the highway. A 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.

2011 Mitsubishi Galant

Given that most 2011 Mitsubishi Galant in this segment are sold with four-cylinder engines (even when a V6 is available), we can forgive Mitsubishi for declining to offer an optional V6 engine for this car any longer. Unfortunately this 2.4-liter inline-4 offers just 160 horsepower, some 15-40 hp less than the four-cylinder engines of its rivals. Making matters worse, the Galant must make do with a four-speed automatic while the competition offers five- and six-speed units that better optimize performance and fuel efficiency. This year Mitsubishi tries to entice consumers with a bigger value proposition for the Galant by adding a few more features to the SE trim (including a sunroof and auto-dimming rearview mirror). Furthermore, the SE's generous roster of standard features also includes a navigation system, a back-up camera and an upgraded stereo with satellite radio.

2011 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER EXERCISE YOUR CHOICE OF POWER

Mitsubishi unveiled an all-new compact crossover utility vehicle at the 2010 New York Auto Show. Curiously, Mitsubishi's own press materials don't give it a specific name, but its widely believed to be called the 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport when it goes on sale later this year. The compact crossover capitalizes on the bigger Outlander in style as well as nomenclature.

The exterior styling closely resembles the updated 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander, but the Outlander Sport is more than a foot shorter, since there is no third row available. The 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport will be available in front or all-wheel drive using Mitsubishi's elecronic all-wheel control. This gives the Outlander Sport moderate off-road capability thanks to user-selectable modes that include front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, an automatic all-wheel drive function and an all-wheel drive "lock" setting to help the Outlander Sport in low-traction situations. All models of the 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport will be powered by a 148-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. A five-speed manual is available on ES models, while a continuously variable automatic transmission is standard on the SE.

2011 Mitsubishi Outlander

Inside, the Outlander Sport again closely mimics the bigger Outlander, as well as the rest of Mitsubishi's modern lineup. USB is standard, and the SE model will also have a Rockford Fosgate audio system and navigation system available as well. Standard safety systems include stability control and plenty of airbags. On the efficiency front, Mitsubishi claims that the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport will get 31 mpg on the highway thanks to its aerodynamic shape and energy-saving technologies such as regenerative braking, which helps charge the battery without constantly using the fuel-sapping alternator.

2011 Mitsubishi Outlander

Like most people on the go, you expect a lot from your vehicle. And as it turns out, you can have it. And more. The 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander and exciting al-new Outlander Sport don�t just do more than you expect, they help you do more than you expect. Loaded with cargo space , either Outlander wil impress you with its versatility . But then, you �ll be no less impressed by your own versatility as you utilize its convenient
hands -fre features . Likewise, its responsive power wil be al you could wish for . And so too wil be your own responsiveness as you access the advanced navigation system to find the best route through town .
So don�t underestimate what �s possible in the right vehicle. Whether it�s the romy Outlander or the sharp Outlander Sport , you �ll be amazed by its capabilities . Not to mention your own .

2011 Mitsubishi Outlander

The al-new Outlander Sport �s high-tech power plant ofers a variety of inovations that help improve eficiency and gas mileage . The pistons have ben coated with A special resin surface treatment that reduces friction, while a smart alternator and an electric assist power steering unit help reduce the load on the engine.

Powering Outlander Sport is an updated 2.0-liter engine that features resin-coated pistons and smoother surface camshafts for reduced friction and improved fuel economy. The dual overhead cam, 16-valve
engine produces 148-horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 145 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4,200 rpm. As with all Mitsubishi engines, it enjoys the efficient breathing of Mitsubishi Innovative Valve-timing Electronic Control (MIVEC).

2011 Mitsubishi Outlander

Available with our Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) are rally-inspired magnesium paddle shifters that offer real hands-on performance. Because the lightweight paddles are made of magnesium, they stay
cool even when outside temperatures reach triple digits. Shifting is easy; simply pull the right paddle to upshift and the left to downshift.

The Outlander and Outlander Sport �s many technology features are so advanced , you might fel yourself advancing along with them. With amenities like hard-drive navigation , and voice -activated command of your phone and your music collection , you �ll son be multi -tasking with the best of them. 40GB Hard Disc Drive Navigation System and Music Server The Outlander Series� available 40-gigabyte navigation system not only offers ultrafast data access, it provides a wealth of useful features like Real-Time Traffic and Diamond
Lane Guidance� that gives the driver High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane information, and points of interest along with directions.

The entertainment system is controlled through the sharp 7-inch LCD touch screen, where you can browse your music library. Complete with a DVD player and a digital music server, it holds as many as 3,000 of your favorite tunes. Additional functionality includes the ability to set the behavior of systems such as power locks and interior lighting.

FUSE Hands-Free Link System with USB Port Incorporating Bluetooth 2.01 technology, FUSE allows you to enjoy full use of your Bluetoothenabled phone and play music from your iPod or other MP3 player and USB devices, handsfree.In addition to more traditional controls, such as buttons on the steering wheel and on the navigation screen, FUSE also utilizes advancedspeech recognition technology when connected to the USB port so you can operate selected features with the sound of your voice. FUSE can recognize up to seven different mobile phones, automatically syncing up with contact lists from each phone that�s been paired with the system and keeping the lists private to each user.

Outlander�s many capabilities include a top-shelf audio system. The available Rockford Fosgate Punch premium sound system, with nine speakers in seven locations (including a 10-inch long-throw subwoofer), is driven by 710 watts of deep bass and crystal clear highs. Along with digital signal processing, the unit also boasts a sound compensation feature that automatically adjusts both volume and equalizer levels based on vehicle speed. And as if that wasn�t enough, the system is also equipped with SIRIUS Satellite Radio that
includes three months of prepaid service.

As if you needed even more cargo options with your Outlander, this roof rack from Thule gives you just that. Choose from a variety of available cargo boxes to match your particular gear needs. Flap-Fold Tailgate
Outlander features the only two-piece flap-fold tailgate in its class. It makes for easy loading and also doubles as a bench for outdoor activities, handling up to 400 pounds.

Available in five or seven passenger configurations, Outlander happily makes room for the whole family
and their assorted gear. Its 60/40 split rear seat folds and tumbles to unveil over 72 cubic feet of space.
And with the hidden storage compartment found on five-seat models, Outlander demonstrates it can keep a secret, too. Inner Beauty Along with a sharp instrument cluster, Outlander�s interior has been designed
with handsome seats, door and dash trim crafted from available grained leather with double stitching.
Available Third-Row Seating For groups as large as seven, Outlander offers an available third row of seating that conveniently drops down and out of the way when it�s not needed.

All-Wheel Control (AWC) is a philosophy that combines the electronically controlled 4WD system with Active Stability Control (ASC). AWC transfers power to all four wheels giving the vehicle superior driving
performance and enhanced traction under various road conditions. The 4WD system regulates drive torque front-to-rear with a network of handling technologies. Outlander uses an advanced 4WD system allowing
the driver to choose from one of three modes (2WD/4WD/LOCK) depending on performance preferences and surface conditions.

The anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), and aluminum roof (which lowers the center of gravity) all work hand in hand to give the driver optimal driving performance and safety. Super All-Wheel Control Engineered to take full advantage of the engine�s power, Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) is actually a series of advanced technologies orchestrated to work in harmony. An industry first, the Active Front Differential (AFD), intelligently distributes engine power between left and right on the front axle,
while the Active Center Differential (ACD) intelligently distributes power between the front and rear wheels. Active Stability Control (ASC) helps keep the vehicle on the intended path when cornering, and the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) improves control and stability under hard braking. A mode switch allows the driver to select from �TARMAC,� �SNOW� or �LOCK�
settings for maximum traction regardless of surface conditions.

Continuously Variable Transmission One of the smoothest, most efficient drive trains available, a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) operates on a pulley system that allows infinite variability between the highest and lowest ratios. Instead of shifting gears, it readily adapts to changing vehicle speeds and allows the engine
to remain efficient, improving both fuel economy and exhaust emissions. Sportronic Shift Mode Can�t decide between an automatic or manual transmission? Get the best of both worlds with our Sportronic transmission with adaptive shift control. Its clutchless �manual� shift mode offers lightning-quick manual shifting without that pesky third pedal. Shifting is as simple as pushing the shift lever forward to upshift or pulling backward to downshift.

Whether you�re looking for quick responsiveness or raw pulling force, the Outlander offers two strong aluminum-block engine choices that are more than up to the task. And with its amazing grip, Outlander�s available All-Wheel Control will leave no doubt that when it comes to power, you can handle it. Outlander XLS in Quartz Brown 2.4L MIVEC Engine The 2.4-liter engine is an aluminum-block power plant with dual overhead cams, 16 valves and MIVEC. This �long-stroke� engine produces 168-horsepower and 167 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4100 rpm. With a balanced torque to horsepower ratio, the responsive 2.4-liter engine provides confident daily driving power. Balance shafts, a system patented by Mitsubishi over 30 years ago to reduce engine vibration, help give the 2.4-liter smooth and quiet performance.

3.0L MIVEC Engine Outlander�s 3.0-liter engine is a brawny aluminum-block V6 with single overhead
cams, 24 valves and MIVEC technology. It produces 230-horsepower5 at 6,250 rpm and 215 lb.-ft. of torque @ 3,750 rpm. Along with the available towing package, this power plant can pull a trailer up to 3,500 pounds. 6-Speed Automatic Transmission with Idle Neutral Logic Built to handle the extra torque of the
powerful V6 engine, the 6-speed automatic provides swift and sure gear shifting. And to increase fuel efficiency, Idle Neutral Logic selects neutral when the vehicle comes to a stop, reducing the load on the idling engine.

2011 Mitsubishi Lancers New Series

If it's a compact car you're looking for, the 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer will have your head spinning at nine enticing models. The Lancer is a clean and lovely car, even with its fish face. Some see a shark mouth, and say the Lancer is lovely because of it, not despite it. Its good looks give it distinction in its field. Its good engines give it value. All 2011 Mitsubishi Lancers have anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control standard, along with seven airbags, the latest being driver's knee.

The 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer lineup starts with the $14,995 Lancer DE, not quite bare bones because it's got power doors and windows, keyless entry and auto halogen headlamps, but lacks air conditioning, 60/40 folding rear seat, and cruise control. But it's got the same good 2.0- liter engine with variable valve timing making 148 horsepower. Driving gets more civilized with the Lancer ES with air conditioning and better seats, front and rear.

2011 Mitsubishi Lancers

New for 2011 is the Lancer ES Sportback, a smooth-looking 5-door that made its debut on the 2010 Lancer Ralliart. Fuel economy for the Lancer ES is an EPA-estimated 25/32 mpg City/Highway. We found the Mitsubishi Lancer ES offers decent steering response and tracks well through corners, with no excessive body lean.

The Mitsubishi Lancer GTS climbs the ladder with its 2.4-liter engine, a gem of a powerplant coupled with a sweet 5-speed gearbox or 6-step CVT with paddle shifters (23/30 mpg). We tested the Mitsubishi Lancer GTS Sportback version complete with front air dam and rear spoiler, our test car with a 5-speed, looking sleek in Graphite Gray Pearl and beautiful 18-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels. The Mitsubishi Lancer GTS is a compelling value for its good looks, enjoyable driving characteristics, affordable pricing, and fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 24/31 mpg City/Highway. If you don't need all-wheel drive or turbocharged acceleration, the GTS is the one, especially in the new Sportback body style with a great cargo area.

2011 Mitsubishi Lancers

The all-wheel-drive Lancer Ralliart moves into high-performance land with an intercooled and turbocharged 2.0-liter engine making 237 horsepower, and showcasing Mitsubishi's racy 6-speed twin-clutch automated manual transmission. Sedan or Sportback, flared fenders, hood scoop, vents like shark gills, optional Recaro seats. The fishface gets a chrome ring, like silver lipstick on a largemouth bass. The Lancer Evolution, the Evo, pumps out 291 horsepower. Shapely sedan only, with 5-speed GSR model, or with 6-speed twin clutch MS, which adds Bilstein shocks and lighter brake rotors. Have fun at the track, your car is ready.

The 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer DE ($14,995) comes with cloth upholstery, AM/FM/CD/MP3 with four speakers, power doors and windows, halogen headlamps. Air conditioning is optional. (All New Car Test Drive prices are Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices, which do not include destination charge and may change at any time without notice).

2011 Mitsubishi Lancers

2011 Mitsubishi Lancer ES ($16,395) and ES Sportback ($16,795) come with a 5-speed gearbox or 6-step CVT with paddle shifters ($900). Standard equipment includes premium fabric upholstery, air
conditioning, cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls, power door locks with keyless remote, 16-inch alloy wheels, rear stabilizer bar, six-way adjustable driver seat, 60/40-split folding rear seatback with folding center armrest, front map lights, floor mats, the auto-up driverside window, silver interior accents, body-color outside mirror housings and door handles, antitheft security alarm and pre-wired Bluetooth. ES options include a power sunroof and 710-watt, nine-speaker, Rockford-Fosgate premium audio system. The Sport Aero Package ($800) and Sport Accent ($295) give it an Evo look.

2011 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS ($19,295) and GTS Sportback ($19,695) feature a 2.4-liter four-cylinder making 168 horsepower, rear disc brakes replacing the drums in the ES, a 5-speed manual gearbox or optional CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) using Sportronic manual shifting with steering-wheel paddles. A 140-watt 6-speaker sound system is standard, along with sport bucket seats. New for 2011 is a FUSE Handsfree Links system, which ties voice command into all your worldly desires in the car, starting with talking on the phone. The sport-tuned suspension is tied to lovely 18-inch alloy wheels.

2011 Mitsubishi Lancers Interior

2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart ($27,495) and Ralliart Sportback get a 237-hp 2.0-liter intercooled turbocharged engine, while its suspension and brakes are upgraded from the GTS. It uses a six-speed twinclutch automated manual called the TC-SST, with Normal and Sport modes. Automatic climate control is standard, along with sport bucket seats with unique fabric surfaces, and leatherwrapped steering wheel and shift knob. Also standard: six-speaker audio, aero package with front air dam, lower side air dams and rear spoiler, factory-installed fog lights, P215/45R18 tires on alloy wheels. Options include a Navigation & Technology package with GPS-based navigation system storing mapping data on a 40GB hard disk drive, with 10GB set aside for personally recorded audio files, to be played on the optional 710-watt 9-speaker Rockford Fosgate audio system with Sirius satellite radio.

Lancer Evolution comes in two models, the GSR ($33,995) with 5-speed gearbox or the MR ($37,195) with 6-speed twin-clutch, plus BBS forged alloy wheels, Bilstein shocks, Eibach springs and big rear spoiler. Evo standard equipment includes automatic climate control, Recaro seats, 140-watt six-speaker audio system, power windows and locks and keyless entry, and Yokohama performance tires on 18-inch alloy wheels. Options include navigation, Bluetooth, 710-watt 9-speaker Rockford-Fosgate sound system, and HID headlamps.

Safety features for all Lancer models include front air bags, side airbags in front, side curtain air bags, a driver's knee air bag, and tire pressure monitor. Anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution is also standard, along with Active Stability Control. Front seatbelts have pretensioners and force limiters to help position users for maximum protection from airbags in crashes. Rear seats incorporate child safety seat anchors and tethers (LATCH). Available allwheel drive enhances safety in slippery conditions.

The Mitsubishi Lancer is a lovely car, even with its fish face. Mitsubishi calls it shark-like, but it's more like a largemouth bass. The nose seems to copy Audi's oversize grille, although the bodycolored front bumper perfectly splits it up and minimizes the gaping mouth. And if the angular headlights were human, they would be exotic eyes.

The GTS is cleaner than the Ralliart, which outlines that mouth with a chrome ring, like silver lipstick on a fish. But the Ralliart has a cool aluminum hood with an inset scoop for the turbocharger intercooler, and two functional vents that do resemble shark gills. The Ralliart also has flared fenders that house low profile tires. The beautiful 18-inch alloy wheels, a 10-spoke wagon-wheel design, standard on the GTS and Ralliart, add an extra touch of class.

The angular taillamps have that same exotic-eye look as the headlights. They wrap around the rear edges of the car. The rear deck is quite short, and both the GTS and Ralliart have a spoiler wing that's so big it nearly fills up the trunk lid. It's not unattractive, but it is overkill. The GTS has one chrome tailpipe, the Ralliart two.

The Sportback body style has a properly discreet spoiler over the liftgate. Of all the 5-doors, namely Mazda3 and Subaru Impreza, the Ralliart's main rivals, the Sportback has the bestlooking lines. The Sportback pulls off not looking boxy. Its silhouette is sharp and tidy, and the overall lines are really nice, unlike the more edgy Impreza. It's very handsome in Graphite Gray Pearl, and Octane Blue Pearl catches the eye. But Rotor Glow Metallic, a bright orangeish copper, is the prettiest color with the most creative name. Although we like Phantom Black too, even for $250 extra.

As for the Evo, the nose borders on brutish, with a deep spoiler that does double duty, shoving the onrushing air out of the way to keep the front tires firmly planted while forcing cooling air past a sporty looking mesh through the intercooler and radiator. Shark eye-like headlamps curl around the fenders in a stylistic optical illusion masking the longish front overhang. Functional, NACA-like ducts in the hood, like the chin spoiler, serve dual purposes, vacuuming hot air out of the engine compartment, both cooling the powerplant and reducing front end lift.