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2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart Review

December 2008
Filed under: MITSUBISHI Car News | MITSUBISHI Headlines

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The new-for-2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart is based on the Lancer GTS platform, adopting powertrain and 4-wheel drive technology from the Lancer Evolution. The result is a unique model optimized for exhilarating yet balanced overall road performance. The Lancer Ralliart gets a modified version of the Lancer Evolution 4B11 T/C turbocharged/intercooled 2.0-liter DOHC MIVEC engine, teamed with the Twin Clutch-Sportronic® Shift Transmission (TC-SST) from the Evolution MR model.

Starting with a Lancer Evolution long block assembly, the turbocharger, intercooler and valve timing are modified for impressive street-oriented performance in the Ralliart application. The Lancer Ralliart engine produces 237 hp at 6,000 RPM and 253 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 3,000 RPM. (Evolution: 291 hp and 300 lb.-ft.) The driver can manually shift using the console shifter or the Sportronic® steering column-mounted magnesium-alloy paddle shifters, or can select fully automatic operation. The Lancer Ralliart's TC-SST unit features Normal and Sport shifting modes (but not the ultra-performance S-Sport mode featured in the Evolution MR.) Higher 5th and 6th gear ratios help enhance fuel economy in the Lancer Ralliart.

The foundation for the Lancer's agile handling is the performance-engineered global platform that also underpins the Mitsubishi Outlander SUV. (The Lancer Evolution models are built on a specially reinforced, wide-body version of this platform with forged aluminum chassis components and Brembo® brakes.)

The Lancer Ralliart's All-Wheel Control (AWC) system is based on a competition-derived, computer-controlled Active Center Differential (ACD) unit that distributes drive torque between the front and rear wheels in response to driving conditions. The driver can set system response parameters using a "Tarmac, Gravel, Snow" selector. A helical limited-slip front differential and a mechanical limited-slip rear differential help optimize side-to-side torque distribution.

Ralliart-tuned suspension and 18-inch alloy wheels with 215/45 R18 Yokohama ADVAN summer tires complement the high grip afforded by the full-time active 4-wheel drive. Standard Active Stability Control (ASC) with Traction Control (TCL) contributes to safe handling.

Showing a clear kinship to the Lancer Evolution, the Lancer Ralliart sports its own aggressively styled front bumper and rear bumper cover and dual outlet exhaust. The lightweight aluminum, ducted hood delivers cooling air to the turbocharger and vents engine heat. The Lancer Ralliart interior shares much of its design and content with the Lancer GTS and Lancer Evolution, such as the GTS sport bucket seats. Lancer Ralliart borrows the Lancer Evolution leather-wrapped sport steering wheel with audio and cruise control switches. Like the Lancer Evolution, the Lancer Ralliart can be equipped with RECARO® sport bucket front seats. Standard user technology includes the FAST Key hands-free entry system, a Bluetooth® HFP system with voice recognition for hands-free calling and an auxiliary / MP3 input jack. A 40-gig. HDD navigation system with music server and a 650-Watt (max.), Rockford-Fosgate® Premium Audio system and SIRIUS® Satellite Radio (with 6-month pre-paid subscription) are available.

Standard safety features in all Lancer models include an advanced dual front air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with occupant sensors, standard front seat-mounted side-impact air bags and side curtain air bags, plus a driver's knee air bag.

Key Specifications
Wheelbase: 103.7 in.
Length: 180.0 in.
Height: 58.7 in.
Width: 69.4 in.
Engine: DOHC MIVEC 2.0-liter inline 4; intercooled/turbocharged
Horsepower: 237 @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 253 lb.-ft.@ 3,000 rpm
Transmission: TC-SST automated manual with magnesium steering column-mounted magnesium shifter paddles
Dynamics: All-Wheel Control (AWC) with computer-controlled Active Center Differential (ACD) 4-wheel drive and Active Stability Control (ASC) with Traction Control (TCL)
Wheels: 18 x 7.5 in. cast alloy
Tires: 215/45R18 Yokohama ADVAN asymmetrical performance tires

Major Standard Features
Aluminum hood with heat extractor vents
Aluminum pedals and footrest
Automatic climate control system
Dual exhaust outlets
Front Ralliart grille and bumper
Rear Ralliart bumper
Leather-wrapped sport steering wheel with audio system and cruise control switches
Leather-wrapped shift knob
FAST Key hands-free entry system
Dual-stage front air bag SRS with front passenger occupant sensors, curtain side air bags, driver's knee air bag, and front seat mounted side-impact air bags
140-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with digital signal processing, MP3 playback capability and six speakers
60/40 split folding high-back rear seat
Anti-theft engine immobilizer and security alarm
Center floor console box with armrest
Chrome lower side door molding
Color-keyed outer door handles and side view mirrors
Cruise control
Floor mats
Fog lights
Front map lamps
Hands-free Bluetooth cellular phone interface system with voice recognition
Power door locks and side view mirrors
Power windows with driver's one-touch up/down
Premium Sport fabric seating surfaces
Rear spoiler
Tilt-adjustable steering column

Options:
RECARO® Sport Package adds: RECARO sport front bucket seats, 650-Watt (max.) Rockford-Fosgate premium audio system with PUNCH® control and 9 speakers inc. subwoofer, 6-CD/MP3 in-dash changer, SIRIUS Satellite Radio with 6-month service subscription and xenon HID headlamps. (RECARO is the registered trademark of RECARO GmbH & Co., KG)

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