The local Mitsubishi Lancer range has been updated with new specifications and added equipment for the 2014 model year.
Likely to be the last update to the long-running fifth-generation model before it is replaced by an all-new model in 2014, Mitsubishi’s 2014 range carries over the outgoing line-up’s pricing and features minor interior and exterior revisions.
Offered in both sedan and Sportback body styles and powered by a 110kW/197Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder, the entry-level Lancer ES is priced at $19,990 for the five-speed manual and $22,240 when fitted with the automatic continuously variable transmission (CVT).
For 2014 it now features keyless entry, new seat fabrics and 16-inch alloy wheels. Bluetooth/USB/iPod connectivity with voice activation and audio streaming, as well as a multi-function steering wheel carry over from the old model.
Starting at $4000 more than the ES and propelled by the same engine, the LX (pictured above) is available for $23,990 for the manual and $26,240 for the automatic. It maintains its specification level, offering 16-inch alloy wheels, chrome exterior highlights, heated front sports seats with leather trim and a 6.1-inch touchscreen audio system with a reversing camera.
Powered by a larger 2.4-litre four-cylinder developing 125kW and 226Nm, the VRX (pictured top) is priced at $29,990 (manual) and $32,240 (auto) and now includes a seven-inch touchscreen with satellite navigation.
Front foglights, a rear spoiler, 18-inch alloy wheels and a nine-speaker Rockford Fosgate audio system also carry over for 2014, as do rain-sensing wipers and dusk-sensing headlights.
As per a May price change, the range-topping Ralliart model costs $39,990 – down from its previous sticker price of $44,490 – and will be exclusively available as a sedan following the local deletion of the hatch variant.
Powered by a 177kW/343Nm turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder – a detuned version of the 217kW/366Nm engine in the Lancer Evolution X – the Ralliart comes tied exclusively with the six-speed dual-clutch automatic SST transmission.
Now gaining the seven-inch touchscreen with satellite navigation seen in the VRX – an item formerly available as part of a $3895 optional Luxury pack – the Ralliart misses out on the previous Luxury pack’s HID headlights and heated leather seats. The distinctive aluminium bonnet with black air vents, front and rear ‘Ralliart’ bumpers, 18-inch alloy wheels and a dual-exit chrome exhaust remain as standard.
A range of safety technologies including stability control, anti-lock brakes and brake assist technology feature across the line-up, as does Mitsubishi’s five-year/130,000km new vehicle warranty, five-year roadside assist and capped-price servicing program for the first four years or 60,000km of ownership.
Available in White, Black, Red, Titanium Cool Silver (not on Ralliart), Warm Silver (not on Ralliart) and the recently returned Lightning Blue, the Lancer range is on sale now.
The fifth-generation Lancer has been on sale locally since 2007.
2014 Mitsubishi Lancer manufacturer’s list prices:
Mitsubishi Lancer ES Sedan and Sportback manual – $19,990
Mitsubishi Lancer ES Sedan and Sportback auto – $22,240
Mitsubishi Lancer LX Sedan and Sportback manual – $23,990
Mitsubishi Lancer LX Sedan and Sportback auto – $26,240
Mitsubishi Lancer VRX Sedan and Sportback manual – $29,990
Mitsubishi Lancer VRX Sedan and Sportback auto – $32,240
Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart Sedan TC-SST – $39,990
