However, the remaining Lancer models continue with essentially the same powertrains, including a 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the ES and a 2.4-liter four in SE and GT models. A five-speed manual is standard in ES, GT and SE trims, while a CVT is an option in the ES and GT. The more upscale Ralliart models are powered by a 2.0-liter turbo-four, a twin-clutch automatic gearbox and all-wheel drive.
www.Edmunds.com ranked the 2014 Lancer 40th out of 41Affordable Small Cars based on an analysis of published reviews and test drives of the car, as well as reliability and safety data. There is little to change that ranking in the new model.
Edmunds goes on to say that Lancer performs best in higher trims like the Evolution with its powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
However, the respected auto website says the base Lancer has a smoother ride and its four-cylinder engine can deliver adequate power, but that when the base engine is paired with the continuously variable transmission (CVT), the Lancer is noisy and sluggish. With the CVT, the base Lancer gets an acceptable 26/34 mpg city/highway.
The 2015 Lancer has several new safety technologies and features including an advanced seven airbag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) that includes dual stage front air bags with occupant seat position sensor, side-impact head protection curtain air bags, front seat-mounted side air bags and a driver’s side knee air bag; antilock braking (ABS) system with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Active Stability Control (ASC) with Traction Control Logic (TCL); a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS); front pedestrian impact crumple zones; height-adjustable headrests and three-point seatbelts for all three rear seating positions.
Mitsubishi’s acclaimed Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) energy absorbing body construction technology has been engineered into all 2015 Lancer models to give additional driver and passenger protection in a crash.
Lancer ES is the base model, available with a five-speed manual or a CVT. It is fuel-efficient, getting 34 mpg highway with the CVT. The ES is powered by the 2.0-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine. Standard features include a four-speaker 140-watt AM/FM/CD/MP3 sound system; steering wheel-mounted cruise, audio and Bluetooth hands-free system controls; an ECO indicator light that alerts drivers when they are driving efficiently; air conditioning with micron filtration; keyless remote entry with a panic alarm feature; split-folding rear seat, and a six-way adjustable driver’s seat.
The MSRP on the 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer is not yet available, but 2014 pricing ranged from $18,905 for the base ES to $35,805 for the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution.
[author image=”http://www.samaonline.org/Ron.jpg” ]Ron Beasley is the automotive editor for Miami’s Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277, ext. 261, or by addressing email correspondence to LetsTalkCars@aol.com.[/author]
