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AJ · 12-15-2003

2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart

What Is It?
2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart

What's Special About It?
In an effort to bridge the wide performance and financial gap between the 120-horsepower Lancer econobox and the 271-hp Lancer Evolution, Mitsubishi will introduce the Ralliart model — a front-drive Lancer that has benefited from a series of drivetrain, suspension and cosmetic upgrades.

Under the hood of the Ralliart is a 2.4-liter, SOHC inline four assisted by Mitsubishi's Innovative Valve Timing and Electronic Control (MIVEC), which is basically the equivalent of Toyota's VVT-i. The engine will generate approximately 160 hp (a peak torque figure has not been released). Buyers will have the choice of a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic.

If you read our 2002 Econosport Sedan Comparison Test, you'll remember that we found the regular Lancer's suspension tuning far too soft for a track workout. Accordingly, the Ralliart has been fitted with stiffer springs, a tubular red front strut tower bar and a larger rear stabilizer bar. Larger wheels and brakes are part of the deal, too. The Ralliart will wear five-spoke 16-inch alloys and 205/50R16 tires. Antilock brakes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution will be optional.

Ultimately, the Ralliart's distinctive front fascia — a prominent split grille framed by a resculpted set of headlights — will be common to all 2004 Lancer models. Deck lid sheet metal has been revised for all 2004 models as well, but the Ralliart's clear-lens taillights and larger rear wing will assure onlookers that yours is no rental-fleet Lancer. Inside, you'll find bolstered seats upholstered in black fabric with red trim and embroidered with the Ralliart logo. A 315-watt Infinity sound system with a subwoofer will be part of an optional Sun and Sound package. Pricing for the Lancer Ralliart will start under $18,000 when it arrives at dealers in the fall of 2003.

Why Should You Care?
Can't afford the Evo's $29K price tag? The arrival of the $18,000 Lancer Ralliart provides a legitimate econosport alternative for buyers who like to drive but don't make the big bucks. Still, with plenty of entertaining cars already available in this price range — namely the Nissan Sentra SE-R, Mazdaspeed Protegé and SVT Focus — the Ralliart will have to be a lot of fun out on the road to gain a following. — Erin Riches

Ehhh, I'd drop the extra on an EVO

12-15-2003	#5
AJ Area code 166 represent Join Date: Aug 2003 Location: Crystal, MN Posts: 10,329	2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart What Is It? 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart What's Special About It? In an effort to bridge the wide performance and financial gap between the 120-horsepower Lancer econobox and the 271-hp Lancer Evolution, Mitsubishi will introduce the Ralliart model — a front-drive Lancer that has benefited from a series of drivetrain, suspension and cosmetic upgrades. Under the hood of the Ralliart is a 2.4-liter, SOHC inline four assisted by Mitsubishi's Innovative Valve Timing and Electronic Control (MIVEC), which is basically the equivalent of Toyota's VVT-i. The engine will generate approximately 160 hp (a peak torque figure has not been released). Buyers will have the choice of a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic. If you read our 2002 Econosport Sedan Comparison Test, you'll remember that we found the regular Lancer's suspension tuning far too soft for a track workout. Accordingly, the Ralliart has been fitted with stiffer springs, a tubular red front strut tower bar and a larger rear stabilizer bar. Larger wheels and brakes are part of the deal, too. The Ralliart will wear five-spoke 16-inch alloys and 205/50R16 tires. Antilock brakes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution will be optional. Ultimately, the Ralliart's distinctive front fascia — a prominent split grille framed by a resculpted set of headlights — will be common to all 2004 Lancer models. Deck lid sheet metal has been revised for all 2004 models as well, but the Ralliart's clear-lens taillights and larger rear wing will assure onlookers that yours is no rental-fleet Lancer. Inside, you'll find bolstered seats upholstered in black fabric with red trim and embroidered with the Ralliart logo. A 315-watt Infinity sound system with a subwoofer will be part of an optional Sun and Sound package. Pricing for the Lancer Ralliart will start under $18,000 when it arrives at dealers in the fall of 2003. Why Should You Care? Can't afford the Evo's $29K price tag? The arrival of the $18,000 Lancer Ralliart provides a legitimate econosport alternative for buyers who like to drive but don't make the big bucks. Still, with plenty of entertaining cars already available in this price range — namely the Nissan Sentra SE-R, Mazdaspeed Protegé and SVT Focus — the Ralliart will have to be a lot of fun out on the road to gain a following. — Erin Riches Ehhh, I'd drop the extra on an EVO __________________ '16 Focus ST - Daily Duty '93 mr2 - Track car in progress