2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
Although Mitsubishi fits a variety of engines under the hood of the compact Lancer sedan (including the high-performance turbocharged Ralliart and Evo versions), the standard powerplants are 2.0-liter and 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engines. A 5-speed manual transmission is mated to each, unless the consumer chooses the optional continuously variable transmission (CVT). With the 2.0-liter and the CVT, the Lancer earned fuel economy ratings of 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway in EPA tests. The front suspension is independent, while the rear is a multi-link design. The base models have front disc/rear drum brakes, while the upscale and performance models feature 4-wheel discs and standard anti-lock control (ABS). Stability control is optional. In our 2008 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), designed to measure problems experienced by original owners of 3-year-old vehicles, the Mitsubishi sedan ranked among the top three models in its segment. In addition, the Lancer earned a “Top Safety Pick” designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)—just keep in mind that frontal crash ratings for small cars apply only if the car impacts another vehicle of about the same size and weight. For 2009, Mitsubishi is focusing on the performance-oriented Lancer models with a new Ralliart version.
2009 Small Cars Buyer's Guide
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