2006 Mitsubishi Lancer: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Freshened front-end styling tops 2006 updates to Mitsubishi's smallest cars. Lancers are 4-cyl sedans that range from entry-level economy models to pricey high-performance versions. ES and O-Z Rally models have 120 hp, Ralliart models have 162. These models have front-wheel drive. The high-performance Evolution models come in RS, IX, and MR designations. They are turbocharged and have 286 hp, an increase of 10 hp over 2005. Evos also have all-wheel drive. Every Lancer comes with manual transmission, a 6-speed for the Evolution MR, a 5-speed for the others. Automatic transmission is available for ES, O-Z, and Ralliart. ABS is standard on Ralliart and Evo IX and MR, optional on the others. Front side airbags are standard on Ralliart, optional on ES and O-Z, and unavailable on Evos. Ralliarts have a sport suspension, Evo-style front seats, and unique trim. Evolutions have racing-inspired cosmetics and suspension tuning. RS and MR versions pare pounds partly through use of some lighter-weight body panels.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Compact Cars comprise the smallest passengers cars. These vehicles range from tiny economy models to slightly larger, popularly priced sedans, hatchbacks, and wagons.

Our Best Buys include Chrysler PT Cruiser, Honda Civic, Mazda 3, and Pontiac Vibe/Toyota Matrix twins. Our Recommended picks include Chevrolet Cobalt, Ford Focus, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Spectra, and Toyota Corolla.

New or significantly redesigned models include Chevrolet HHR, Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio, and Volkswagen Golf and Jetta.