Firkins Mitsubishi

The Mitsubishi Lancer is a stylish compact sedan with roomy interior, attractive price-to-performance ratio for base cars, and aggressive front-end styling.

 Mitsubishi's stylish compact sedan is offered in DE, ES, GTS and Ralliart trims. The two lower trims are powered by a 152-horsepower (143 hp in California-emissions-level states) inline-4. The GTS has a 2.4-liter 168-hp four and also features 18-inch wheels and a firmer suspension. Should that not be enough, there is the Ralliart, which offers a turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on all but the Ralliart, while Mitsubishi's first continuously variable transmission (CVT) is optional (except on Ralliart). The 237-hp Ralliart comes with a quick-witted automated-clutch manual transmission.

In addition to safety items like standard antilock brakes and stability control, Mitsubishi's compact sedan offers a number of high-tech features; such as keyless ignition, automatic climate control, a touch screen navigation system, hard-drive music storage and Bluetooth connectivity that up until recently were reserved for luxury automobiles.

In reviews of the Mitsubishi Lancer, it has impressed with its improved handling, sporty styling and high-tech optional features. The Rockford Fosgate hard-drive-equipped audio system drew particularly high praise. One could also consider the Ralliart, which is a kick to drive thanks to its ripping acceleration and sharp handling.