MITSUBISHI Lancer Hatchback
Generations Timeline, Specs and Pictures
After the successful introduction of the 2007 Lancer generation, Mitsubishi tried its luck with a hatchback version unveiled in 2008.
Finally, the Japanese carmaker could use the Lancer nameplate globally. Before the 2007 version, it had to use Carisma on the European market, where it was a very appreciated car, but the name was not the one expected by its fans. Since the car was not available as a station wagon, the Japanese carmaker introduced a hatchback named Sportback.
It featured the same fresh look with a prominent trapezoidal grille and two angular headlights. Mitsubishi’s designers extended the sharp lines on the sides over the bodywork. In the rear, behind the rear, doors, Mitsubishi’s designers made a different C-pillar with a sloped liftgate in the back. They also redesigned the taillights.
Inside, the dashboard was clean with two-round clusters on the dashboard. Depending on the option, an infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, a navigation system, and a USB aux was available. In the back, the carmaker installed a 60/40 split-folding rear bench which increased the trunk size from 344 liters (15.14 cu-ft) to 1,349 liters (47.64 cu-ft)
The Lancer was available with various engines, starting with a 110 hp 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine. Another 1.8-liter was available. Since the European customers asked for diesel engines, Mitsubishi installed a VW-supplied 2.0-liter TDI unit. On top of that, Mitsubishi offered a special version named Ralliart, which was a de-tuned Lancer Evolution with an all-wheel-drive and automatic (dual-clutch) gearbox.
Available in two body styles, the new Lancer received its Ralliart treatment just before the tuning division closed its doors in April 2009.
Just like the sedan, the Sportback configuration comes equipped with several technologies that reminds of its donor, Evolution X, including the all-wheel drive system that comes with three different modes, Gravel, Tarmac and Snow. Equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that develops 240 hp and a six-speed dual-clutch transmission, the Sportback Ralliart is able to reach a maximum speed of 220 km/h (136.7 mph), while sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 7.1 seconds.
the fourth generation Mitsubishi Lancer saw the introduction of a new body style, a five-door hatchback with a stream-lined design.
Powered by teh same range of options as the sedan, the hatch came with a choice of two gasoline units displacing 1.5 L and 1.8L with the latter having also had a Diesel version. The most notable hatch variant was probably the normally aspirated 1.8 L GTi with a n output of 136 hp and 162 Nm of torque. Mated to a 5-speed manual transmission, the plant could push the car to a top speed of 124 mph while acceleration from 0 to 62 was achieved in just above 8 seconds.