Introduced as the Prototype S at the 2008 Geneva Auto Show, the 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback will go on sale in the U.S. in 2009. It goes on sale in Europe later this year. There, Mitsubishi expects the new five-door to make up 70 percent of Lancer sales.
Mitsubishi will offer the Sportback in two levels – 168-horsepower GTS and 237-horsepower turbocharged Ralliart. GTS features a 2.4-liter four-cylinder and comes with your choice of a five-speed manual or CVT. Ralliart aims for the Subaru Impreza 2.5GT with a 2.0-liter turbo four with all-wheel-drive and a six-speed dual-clutch transmission from the Lancer Evolution.
The design is all-new from the C-pillar rearward, and all current Lancer from that point forward. The hatch, or “rear door,” is sloped and bespoilered with a roof wing. It’s a shame they chose such a steep rake for the hatch; a lot more cargo room could’ve been created with a more upright profile. Overall vehicle length stretches just behond that of a Lancer sedan, but as is true for all wagons, cargo space is increased, especially when the 60/40 split rear seats are folded flat.
Inside, the cabin is standard Evo, so while it’s well laid out and easy on the eye, the plastics are hard, and nowhere near the quality of the VW Golf ’s. Still, the car is well equipped, the large boot opening is practical and the rear seats fold flat with the pull of a single lever.
Is the sportback version available in Malaysia? We dont know yet.They should bring it in since the previous Mitsubishi lancer GT was a big hit.
[youtube:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44kS5Kf0aaA 425 344]
Jom komen!