Mitsubishi Lancer Preview - 2007 Detroit Auto Show: It's one of those cars that makes people ask "What's a Lancer?" or "They're still making those?" The current Mitsubishi Lancer has its strengths, but it does battle with an army of fierce competitors, nearly all with better name recognition. However, the winds may start blowing in another direction when the redesigned 2008 Lancer hits the streets in early 2007 with a fresh, aggressive look, a thoroughly overhauled interior, a 152-horsepower four-banger (143 hp and PZEV rated for California), and an optional CVT transmission with magnesium paddle shifters. Try finding that on a Corolla. Another item you won't find on a 'Yota is the Evolution badge. We'll see a new Evo X soon enough, based based on the new Lancer platform.