The Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback sedan comes equipped with a 5 speed gearbox or 6 step CVT with paddle shifters. Standard options in the ES model include quality fabric upholstery, an air conditioning system, cruise control that has a series of controls on the steering wheel, power locks with a keyless remote control, 16-inch wheels, a rear stabilizing bar, a convenient driver seat that can be controlled in six ways, body-color outside mirror housings and door handles, a 60-40 folding rear seat that includes a convenient center armrest, useful and adjustable map lights in the front, rugged and grooved floor mats, a powerful and adjustable window on the driver's side, a series of silver accents on the inside, asecurity alarm and even Bluetooth technology.
The Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback sedan ES is powered by a 2.0 liter 4 cylinder engine that puts out 148 horsepower and 145 pound feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, but a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is available as an extra option. The CVT features a series of simulated gear ratios operated through a series of shift paddles located right on the steering wheel.
The Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback sedan GTS model turns up the heat with a 2.4L engine. It is a powerful addition coupled with a lively gearbox for five speeds as well as an optional 6 speed CVT that includes paddle shifters, giving it a modest rating of 23/30 mpg. The GTS is a good value for its sporty looks, enjoyable handling, affordable pricing, and decent fuel economy with 24 mpg city / 31 mpg highway. If you don't live in a 4 wheel drive area or need turbocharged acceleration, the GTS is the best of the Lancer line, especially in the new Sportback model body with a roomy cargo area.
In addition the stronger engine found in the GTS, it also has 18-inch wheels, a durable sport-tuned suspension, a well controlled series of aero-style bodywork pieces, a series of chrome tips on the exhaust, keyless ignition, remote entry,all power accessories, automatic dual zone climate control, sport front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, manual driver-seat height adjustment, built-in Bluetooth wireless, the voice-activation system from Fuse and a 6 speaker stereo with a MP3 auxiliary port.
The Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback sedan Ralliart mode takes the performance up a notch, offering an intercooled turbocharged 2.0 liter engine that houses an impressive 237 horsepower. The Ralliart also comes with an automatic dual clutch manual transmission with integrated shift paddles, all-wheel drive, SIRIUS satellite radio and keyless ignition with remote entry. The flared fenders blend seamlessly into the hood scoop, giving the GTS a one of a kind profile that's hard to mistake.
A Touring package is available for Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback sedan GTS and Ralliart trims. Features include automatic xenon headlamps, a moonroof/sunroof, automatic wipers, premium leather seats, heated front seats, a 9 speaker sound system with an dashboard 6 CD changer and SIRIUS satellite radio. Also optional on all trim packages is an onboard navigation systemfrom Rockford Fosgate that features a 30GB hard drive capable of storing and playing MP3 files.
The Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback sedan comes equipped with many safety features, including features that airbags on the front seat side, more airbags for full length head curtain needs, a newly designed airbag for the driver's knee and stability functions. Antilock brakes are also standard on all models, with 4 wheel disc brakes on the GTS and Ralliart and rear drums for the ES trim level. In government crash tests the Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback sedan was awarded a perfect 5 star rating for driver protection in frontal impacts and the front passenger protection was rated at 4 stars. Side impact testing scored 5 stars for the driver and 4 for the rear passengers. In these tests, the Sportback Ralliart stopped from 60 mph in 129 feet, which is slightly longer distance than average for this class of sports car.
The Sportback's zippy style makes it look like it would be quick on the road, but drivers looking for a spirited ride will be disappointed. Of all of the Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback sedan models, the Ralliart trim level has the most lively drive due to its turbocharged engine and speedy gear changes. The GTS and Ralliart are both thrilling around the curves, but neither lives up to the promise the shape of the body seems to make.
All in all, the Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback sedan is worth a look if you need the room of a hatchback that is paired with the performance of a decent sports car. The Ralliart model is the best handling, while the ES is competitively priced with a good list of features. Thanks to a sharp body and unique fishy grin, the Lancer is one of the more recognizable sedans in its class, which helps its appeal.