Mitsubishi shines light on Lancer

MITSUBISHI has released its 2010 Lancer sedan and (Sportback) hatchback range in Australia, complete with interior and exterior cosmetic updates, more features and extra safety for no extra cost.

On sale now from Mitsubishi’s 200-plus dealers nationwide, with the Ralliart available from specialist outlets only, the entire MY2010 Lancer line-up features a new-look instrument cluster inside and more premium VRX-style light-lights outside.

Technical upgrades for all models – including the Lancer ES, VR, VRX, Aspire and Ralliart – include an improved ETACS (Electronic Total Automobile Control) electronic stability control system and synchronised windscreen washers.

In addition, the entry-level Lancer ES gains a floor console box for extra storage, plus a cup-holder lid, while side and curtain airbags are available as an option ($850).

Adding 16-inch alloy wheels and unique RX badging to the ES menu for no extra cost ($21,990), the new special-edition RX variant is available in both four-door sedan and five-door hatch body styles – and with either a five-speed manual or CVT automatic transmission. The Lancer RX Sportback comes with a VR-style hatchback spoiler as standard, while the sedan is available with an optional accessory bootlid item.

Left: Mitsubishi MY10 CJ Lancer RX sedan and VR Sportback.

For 2010, the mid-range Lancer VR receives a new chrome upper grille, new 16-inch alloy wheels, cup-holder lid, leather-trimmed parking brake handle and a “revolutionary” insulated front windscreen to decrease road noise, while a Rockford Fosgate premium sound system is a new option for the MY10 VR ($750).

The pseudo-sports VRX variant also scores a sound-deadening windscreen and leather parking brake trim, but now offers the premium Rockford Fosgate sound system as standard. Mitsubishi’s Multi Communication System (MMCS) is a new option for the MY10 VRX ($2200).

The superior windscreen, leather handbrake cover, Rockford Fosgate head unit and MMCS are also added as standard to MY10 versions of the luxury-spec Aspire, which also gains chromed exterior door-handles and the new option of a sunroof ($1700).

Finally, while the Lancer Ralliart scores the upgraded windscreen and handbrake trim for MY2010, the premium sound system and MMCS are part of a new option package, which also includes leather seat trim, for the performance flagship of the Mitsubishi small-car range ($3700).

There are no changes to the Lancer’s three engines, including the ES and VR’s 113kW/198Nm 2.0-litre MIVEC petrol four-cylinder, the VRX and Aspire’s 125kW/226Nm 2.4-litre petrol four and the Ralliart’s 177kW/343Nm 2.0-litre turbocharged four, matched as standard to the same Twin Clutch Sport Shift Transmission (TC-SST) as seen in the Evo.

All Lancers continue to be covered by Mitsubishi’s five-year/130,000km whole vehicle warranty, backed up by a 10-year/160,000km powertrain warranty and a five-year/unlimited kilometre roadside assistance plan. Metallic and pearlescent paint continues to be a $450 option ($495 in the Evo).

“In the current economic climate, customers are seeking great value for money without compromising on style, functionality, efficiency, safety or power,” said Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited president and CEO, Robert McEniry. “This new 2010 model year Lancer line-up lets our customers have all this without breaking the bank.

“With 11 stunning variants, the Lancer range has a model to suit any style or budget. Today, we also announce the arrival of a limited-edition brother to the Lancer family with the marketing special RX, offering unique exterior styling to add to Mitsubishi’s solid safety, functionality, technology and power, which comes as standard for all our wonderful products,” said Mr McEniry.