2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback and Lancer Ralliart Sportback Preview

Introduction

Mitsubishi has launched the all-new 2009 Lancer Sportback and Lancer Ralliart Sportback at the 2008 Paris Motor Show. The Sportback is essentially a production version of the 2005 Concept-Sportback show car (itself followed by the Lancer Prototype-S at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year). A large rear tailgate, topped with a distinctive rear wing, adds additional utility to the 5-door vehicle. The rear seats fold via remote releases in the trunk offering generous cargo capacity within the cargo area. The 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback and Lancer Ralliart Sportback launch in Europe this fall, but there is no word yet if either model is coming to the United States to sell alongside the current Lancer sedan.

Model Lineup

The standard model is the Lancer Sportback. It is front-wheel drive, and powered by a choice of small-displacement gasoline or, likely for overseas markets only, diesel engines mated to manual, automatic and CVT transmissions. The Lancer Ralliart Sportback is targeted towards a more performance-oriented audience. The standard driveline is all-wheel drive (shared with the high-performance Lancer Evolution IX), mated to a turbocharged powerplant with a quick-shifting dual-clutch gearbox.