The full-time 4WD driveline features Mitsubishi's Active Center Differential (ACD) unit, which employs an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch center differential, vectoring drive torque to the front and rear according to different driving conditions. The car also gets front helical and rear mechanical limited slip differentials.
Firmer suspension than the standard Lancer, 18in alloys shod with 215mm Yokohama ties, stability and traction control are all fitted as standard. Styling differences include a new front bumper design, rear bumper cover, dual outlet muffler and a lightweight aluminum ducted hood.
An optional Recaro Sport Pack is available for an additional $2,750, adding xenon headlights, a 650W Rockford Fosgate stereo, Sirius Satellite Radio with 6-months subscription and a pair of Recaro sports bucket seats. A new 40Gb hard-disk navigation system is also available as either a port-installed option or as a dealer accessory.
One thing the Lancer Ralliart will be able to offer buyers that the Subaru doesn't is the new Twin-Clutch SST transmission recently debuted on the Evo X. Some may find the Lancer's styling more attractive than the Subaru's hatchback body style, though the camps are likely to remain divided along long-standing lines. However, Subaru has also announced updates to the 2009 WRX range - namely a more powerful 265hp (198kW) engine.
Original: Mitsubishi has added two additional models to the growing Lancer range with the announcement today of the sporty Ralliart edition and a new 2.4L powered model. Where the flagship Lancer Evolution is aimed squarely at the Subaru Impreza STI, the new Ralliart is designed to tackle the mid-level Impreza WRX.
On paper, it seems to have what it takes. The Ralliart will be powered by a four-cylinder 2.0L MIVEC turbocharged petrol engine that develops a maximum output of 240hp (177kW) and 343Nm of torque. The engine is mated to the Twin Clutch SST automated manual transmission as well as a full-time 4WD system with Mitsubishi’s Active Center Differential (ACD). The unit employs an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch center differential, vectoring drive torque to the front/rear according to different driving conditions for maximum traction.
The Ralliart will be distinguished from the rest of the Lancer range thanks to its more aggressive front bumper design, rear air dam, dual mufflers and the intake in the aluminum hood.
Reader Comments
Mon Jan 14 2008 8:44 AM
chris says
right, so its a more sane version of the evo. not the worst idea coming from detroit this week.
Thu Jul 10 2008 1:42 AM
Ayax says
Hmmm, subaru slacked off on their newest iteration of the WRX and the STI, seems Mitsu is capitalizing on that.
Thu Jul 31 2008 9:07 PM
ebm14 says
I would take this car more seriously as a consideration if it didn't cost so much.
Mitsu, you need to drop $4k off the price.
Thu Jul 31 2008 9:28 PM
Kevin says
They should drop the price 4k.
Thu Jul 31 2008 10:32 PM
NoNameDenton says
Well Ayax, Subaru must be paying attnetion because the 2009 Subaru WRX has more power and re-tuned suspension. This was a smart move for Mitsu, since most of their other products are awful (Look at the Galant).
Fri Aug 1 2008 2:36 AM
Sorin says
Nice car. Pretty much new stuff, but too expensive, tooooooo much expensive.
Fri Aug 1 2008 8:45 AM
Ivan says
So with navi and sport package this will be roughly $32k, pretty darn close to Evo.
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