Lancer aims for Volvo S40
Prices could start from around £14,000
Goes on sale next spring
Mitsubishi describes the new Lancer as 'a Volvo S40 rival at Mazda 3 prices'.
It's somewhere between a small hatch and a family saloon in size, with hopes of being seen as a bit more upmarket than either.
And the news is...
There's actually not much new about it. It shares its platform and suspension with a number of Chrysler-Jeep-Dodge vehicles, as well as Mitsubishi's own Outlander 4x4.
The diesel engine comes from VW. Even one of the petrol units is a downsized version of the one in the Outlander.
Still, that happens everywhere these days. What matters is how it has all been put together, and let's start by accentuating the positives.
On the bright side...
It's a good-looking, European-designed car that's easy to drive and has decent space and reasonable quality.
There'll be a five-door model next year, too, increasing its appeal to UK buyers. No doubt Mitsubishi will load it with kit.
But then again...
From here on, things go downhill.
The 2.0-litre VW diesel rumbles like a soon-to-erupt volcano and delivers its power in an undignified rush; there's too much noise from other sources; and the steering and - on 18-inch wheels with sports suspension - the ride are just plain awful.
The 1.8 petrol is a bit better all round, but short of punch. There's also a 1.5 petrol.
Evo on the way
Still, there's light on the horizon. The next Evo is a full member of the Lancer family for the first time, and it will be along next spring, too.
Maybe that will give the whole range a fillip.
|
