2005 Mitsubishi Lancer LW2

Vehicle Overview, , Introduced for 2002, the compact Mitsubishi Lancer wasn't developed as an economy car. Instead, the four-door front-wheel-drive sedan had a competition background that evolved from the Lancer Evolution World Rally Car., , Three versions are offered. Base ES and O-Z Rally models use a 120-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder. Introduced for 2004, the Ralliart sedan is equipped with a larger four-cylinder rated at 162 hp and a sport-tuned suspension., , Ralliart models get a new grille and sport pedals for 2005. Mitsubishi also offers a high-performance Lancer Evolution that's listed separately in the Research section. A Lancer Sportback model was added for 2004, but it lasted only one season., , , Exterior, , The Lancer's cab-forward profile incorporates a high roofline on a comparatively long, 102.4-inch wheelbase. Aerodynamic wraparound headlights have a multireflector surface, and the front bumper has a large opening for efficient airflow. Ralliart sedans have unique fog lamps., , A four-wheel-independent suspension uses front struts and a rear multilink configuration. The Lancer ES gets 14-inch tires; the O-Z Rally edition rides on 15-inchers, and Ralliart sedans have 16-inch rubber. Racing alloy wheels, bumper extensions and side air dams give the O-Z Rally a distinctive look., , , Interior, , Up to five occupants can fit inside the Lancer. A low instrument panel and belt line aid visibility, and a high hip point for the seats should ensure easier entry and exit. The ES has air conditioning, a 140-watt CD stereo, and power windows, locks and mirrors. Extras on the O-Z Rally include a sport-touch steering wheel and white-faced gauges., , , Under the Hood, , The 2.0-liter four-cylinder develops 120 hp and 130 pounds-feet of torque. A 162-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder goes into the Ralliart sedan. Each engine teams with a standard five-speed-manual transmission or an optional four-speed automatic., , , Safety, , Side-impact airbags are optional on O-Z Rally and Ralliart sedans. Antilock brakes are standard on the Ralliart. The front seat belts have pretensioners and force limiters., , , Driving Impressions, , Even when fitted with sporty details, the Lancer fails to stand out in its class. Despite its motorsports heritage, the manual-gearshift O-Z Rally edition lacks the secure confidence of a sport sedan. Still, it's wholly adequate and satisfying as a small family car., , Acceleration is peppy when pushed hard. Some engine buzz is noticeable, but the Lancer is as quiet as most four-cylinder-powered cars. Even though the clutch operates adeptly, it lacks sufficiently smooth engagement., , Handling is adequate. The Lancer corners easily, but some drivers may prefer more tenacity in turns. Choppiness is minimal but not absent., , The front seats are firm and provide ample space. The gauges are easy to see in the daytime but aren't bright enough at night. Rear-seat headroom is adequate, but legroom and foot room are terrific.