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Sunday, November 18, 2012

2013 Mitsubishi Lancer

Base Price     TBA
Drivetrain     Front Wheel Drive
Curb Weight (lbs)     2866
City (MPG)     25
Hwy (MPG)     34
Horsepower     148@6000
Torque (lb-ft)     145@4200
Wheelbase     103.7
Length (in.)     180.0
Width (in.)     69.4
Height (in.)     58.3

2013 Mitsubishi Lancer

Mitsubishi's compact Lancer sedan offered crisp styling and sharper handling than almost anything else in its segment when it first launched back in 2007. However, the competition has improved significantly in recent years; while the Lancer continues to feature a unique look in addition to more bodystyle and powertrain configurations than many rivals, it's a bit outclassed in terms of overall refinement.
Despite the Lancer's age, its "shark-nose" front grille, pointed headlights and crisp lines give it a distinctive and attractive look compared to other small sedans. Though not as unique as the exterior, the cabin features a pleasing and simple design, and the controls and logically arranged and intuitive to use. Those looking for a touch of luxury should note that the Lancer doesn't feature as many upmarket soft-touch surfaces as some newer entries in the segment.

2013 Mitsubishi Lancer

Where the Lancer stands out from the competition is in the realm of choice: the sedan offers two different motors and option of all-wheel-drive, and the model lineup also includes the more powerful Ralliart variant and the Sportback hatchback. Of course, there's also the legendary Lancer Evolution, which features a 291-horsepower engine and better handling than many sports cars costing three times more.
The entry-level Lancer sedan motor is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that sends 148 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque to the front wheels. A five-speed manual transmission comes standard, while a CVT is also available. Fuel economy is rated at 26 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway with the stick, while opting for the CVT will result in a one-mpg bump on the freeway.
Those willing to sacrifice efficiency for extra power can opt for a 2.4-liter four with 168 horsepower and 167 lb-ft of torque. Available on the all-wheel-drive SE and sport-flavored GT trim levels, the 2.4-liter is offered with the same transmission options as the smaller mill (though only the CVT can be had with the SE). Mileage checks in at 22/31 mpg for the stick, 23/30 mpg for the CVT and 22/29 mpg for the CVT/AWD SE trim. Though no longer segment-leading, the Lancer's handling is still respectably sporty, especially on the GT trim.

Trim Level Breakdown
The Lancer Sedan is offered in DE, ES, SE and GT trim levels.
The entry-level DE comes standard with the manual gearbox/2.0-liter motor combo in addition to power windows and locks, a six-speaker, 140-watt AM/FM/CD sound system, auto-off headlights, a multi-information display and 16-inch steel wheels with hubcaps.
The ES adds air conditioning as well as keyless entry, a chrome grille surround and color-keyed door handles and mirrors. Unlike the DE, the SE can be optioned with the CVT and 16-inch alloy wheels.
The ES brings all-wheel-drive and the more powerful 2.4-liter engine mated to the CVT. Other additional standard kit includes heated front seats and side mirrors, a roof rack, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and 16-inch alloy wheels.
Finally, the front-wheel-drive GT (which keeps the 2.4-liter mill but can be had with either transmission) does without the ES' heated seats but does feature a sport-tuned suspension, Mitsubishi's FUSE infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity and voice command functionality, a USB port, a rear spoiler and 18-inch alloy wheels.

2013 Mitsubishi Lancer interior

Occupant Safety
All Lancer models come standard with dual front, front side and full-length side curtain airbags in addition to a driver's knee airbag, traction and stability control systems and a tire-pressure monitoring system.