Last year Mitsubishi recorded its best numbers in four years, with global retail sales up 15 percent. Much of this success can be attributed to the launch of its two new C-segment stars, the Outlander SUV and Lancer sedan.
Both of these models receive additional pop in the form of a torquey new 2.4-liter engine. For the Outlander, this adds a lower entry point to what was a V-6-only lineup, while Lancer benefits by having a "big block" in the topstep GTS trim.
The new 4B12 engine is a bored and stroked variant of the all-aluminum, 2.0-liter engine that inaugurated the Lancer's launch. Displacement is up 362 cc via an 11mm increase in piston stroke (to 91) and a 2mm increase in cylinder bore diameter (to 88). Like the smaller engine, the 2.4-liter version features 16-valves and Mitsubishi's MIVEC variable valve timing system on both intake and exhaust camshafts. Balance shafts have been added to increase smoothness.
For the Lancer GTS, this new engine means a bump of 16 horsepower and 21 lb-ft of torque (over last year's 45-state version) to 168 horsepower and 167 lb-ft. These increases are even greater in comparison with the PZEV-rated 2.0 liter models, which are rated at 143 for both horsepower and torque.
On the road, the extra torque is readily apparent, particularly when experienced through the optional the 6-step, paddle-shifted Sportronic CVT. At wide-open throttle, the engine throbs without pause, sending the car forward in a seemingly unyielding accelerative rush. Sure, torque steer still lurks around every corner, but in a straight line, it's an odd, yet exhilarating feeling.
Despite the larger engine, there is no huge difference at the pump; city/highway fuel economy remain a respectable 21/28 for the five-speed manual and 21/27 for the CVT.
In addition to the supersized engine, the 2009 Lancer GTS gains standard high contrast meters and options including traction control, Xenon headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, and the FAST Key (Freehand Advanced Security Transmitter) entry system that lets the driver unlock and open the door with the key in pocket or purse.
The 2009 Lancer GTS is on sale in early 2008 at a cost of around $18,000.
<TABLE class=insettxt cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=3 width="100%" border=1><STYLE type=text/css><!-- .hdr {color:#ffffff;font:bold 12px verdana,arial,helvetica;background-color:#343434;} .hdr1 {color:#000000;font:bold 09px verdana,arial,helvetica;background-color:#aba9a9;} .hdr2 {color:#000000;font:09px verdana,arial,helvetica;background-color:#dddddd;} .hdr3 {color:#000000;font:09px verdana,arial,helvetica;background-color:#FFFFFF;}--></STYLE><TBODY><TR class=hdr><TD align=middle colSpan=2>2009 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS </TD></TR><TR class=hdr2><TD>Base Price </TD><TD>$18,000 (est) </TD></TR><TR class=hdr3><TD>Vehicle Layout </TD><TD>Front engine, FWD, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan </TD></TR><TR class=hdr2><TD>Engine </TD><TD>2.4L/168-hp/167-lb-ft DOHC, 16-valve I-4 </TD></TR><TR class=hdr3><TD>Transmission </TD><TD>5-speed manual, 6-speed continuously variable auto </TD></TR><TR class=hdr2><TD>Curb Weight </TD><TD>3150 (mfr) </TD></TR><TR class=hdr3><TD>Wheelbase </TD><TD>103.7 in </TD></TR><TR class=hdr2><TD>Length x Width x Height </TD><TD>180.0 x 69.4 x 58.7 in </TD></TR><TR class=hdr3><TD>0-60 mph </TD><TD>7.5 sec (MT est) </TD></TR><TR class=hdr2><TD>EPA City/Hwy Econ </TD><TD>21-21/27-28 mpg </TD></TR><TR class=hdr3><TD>CO2 Emissions </TD><TD>0.82-0.83 lb/mile (est) </TD></TR><TR class=hdr2><TD>On Sale In U.S. </TD><TD>Winter 2008 </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
- Motor Trend
