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Introduction
Mitsubishi Lancer – 2008 First Drive: Life must be hard for the Mitsubishi Lancer. Forever in the shadow of its twin, the all-wheel-drive Evolution, it can only dream of having its own cult following or serving as the primary life line for its struggling brand. Nonetheless, the Lancer soldiers on, finding its niche among rental fleets and buyers who opt not for the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, or other leading competitors. For 2008, Mitsubishi hopes to woo even more buyers with the Lancer’s aggressive styling, roomy interior, responsive handling, and range of basic to sport-tuned models, each backed by one of the best warranties in the business. Unfortunately, none of that addresses the loud ride, questionable materials, and lack of refinement.
Origins
When it hits the lots in February, the 2008 model will represent the ninth generation for the Lancer nameplate. First introduced in 1973, the Lancer has a history based on performance and has been involved with multiple rally-racing championships. This new model rides on the brand’s C platform which is also used for the new Outlander SUV and will serve as the backbone of the upcoming Evolution X.
DE Standard Features
Want basic four-door transportation? Mitsubishi’s got ya covered with the 2008 Lancer DE, a modestly equipped model that offers up the bare essentials, not to mention the brand’s outstanding warranty: five years/60,000 miles for basic coverage, 10 years/100,000 miles for the powertrain, and seven years/100,000 miles for rust. Prices start at about $14,000. Standard equipment includes 16-inch steel wheels, a tilt steering wheel, seven airbags with one for the driver’s knee, a tire pressure monitoring system, and a 140-watt audio system with a CD/MP3 player and speed-compensated volume. DE buyers also get a trip computer and power windows, though power door locks are not part of the deal.
ES Standard Features
Positioned in the middle of the model lineup, the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer ES takes the DE and adds chrome and color-keyed accents to the exterior and silver accents to the interior, power mirrors and door locks, air conditioning, 16-inch alloy wheels, upgraded cloth seat fabric, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, floor mats, and a rear split bench with a fold-down center armrest. There are also some welcome little touches like an additional power outlet, front map lights, and a rear coat hanger. More obvious are the steering wheel buttons for the radio and cruise control (and Bluetooth devices), and the keyless entry remote.
GTS Standard Features
With the obvious exception of the Evolution X model, which is expected to debut within the next year, the GTS is the sportiest Lancer you can buy. Specific cues include a lower body kit, a rear spoiler, 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, chrome interior trim, premium fabric on sport bucket seats, and paddle shifters on the steering wheel (if you opt for the continuously-variable automatic transmission (CVT). A sport-tuned suspension also serves to add some zeal to the GTS, as do the chrome exhaust tip and front fog lights.
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