[Brosreview]

Prior to this time, Mitsubishi Lancers and Evos where miles apart when features where kept in mind. Although that was the case, it was quite hard to differentiate an Evo from a Lancer as Lancer owners often modified their cars to look like the Evo. But, this time Mitsubishi made both variants look the same. So, the ego clashes are eliminated. The other amazing thing is that both these variants come with Active stability control, traction control, ABS, EBD and brake assistant. The only non-visible difference left is the power and AUD 20 to 25,000 price tag. Obviously, the Lancer is cheaper.


Since, this is a quick review I shall merely compare the main features. If price tag is and power is not an issue, blindly go for the Lancer CJ ES, VR or VRX. Yes, I am most certain it is better than its competitors, Honda Civic VTi, Suzuki SX-4 and Toyota Corolla Ascent.


The Thailand made Civic is a FWD, 1.8L, 138hp that can run 14ks’per litre. The unavailability of ESC and poor performance figures in the more expensive Civic makes it not as good as the best. The Japanese SX-4 is a FWD, 2.0L, 143hp that can run 10-11ks’ per litre. And, the Japanese Corolla is a FWD, 1.8L, 134hp that can run 13-14 ks’ per litre.


On the other hand, the Lancer CJ is a Japanese FWD, 2.0L, 150hp runs 12-13k’s per litre. This car touches 100k’s in around 10 seconds. This is semi-respectable considering the power it carries and being a 5 speed manual. It also is the heaviest among the lot. Clearly, this is the best choice. One could argue that it is under-powered. But, isn’t that the difference between it and the Evo?


If one could spend more, there are more powerful variants available (up to 300hp) that are not an Evo. Other than the better gas mileage than the Evo, Lancer CJ has lesser / no tyre and wind noise. We suspect that to be because of lesser power. Lesser the power, lesser the rumble.


While inside, there is a difference in interiors. You don’t get the sporty seats making it more comfortable than it is in the Evo. And, the speed dials show ‘300ks’ in the Evo and ‘240ks’ in the Lancer CJ. Also, the rev counts till 9 in the Evo, but 8 in the Lancer CJ. You can get the CVT (Continuously variable transmission) with sports mode to tease the MIVEC 2.0 litre, 4-cylinder engine. Spend more to get the sports-oriented Lancer CJ with the paddle shift on the CVT. You can even upgrade your wheels from 16-18 inches. All these models, ES, VR and VRX range from AUD 20 to 29,000 (excluding CVT price). Even with the CVT, the models cost between AUD 23 to 31,000.



So, if you cannot afford an Evo, buy a Lancer CJ for 20-25 grand less and you won’t be disappointed.

[abhinav.gupta88]

Nice review
I just hope this car makes is to India

It is so good looking and you feel like you are in a mini-evo (sat in one in Dubai)

[shivaprasad]

very nice review and the car looks great.

[Brosreview]

Hey there, thanks for reading and appreciating. Yes, it is decent looking and yes, it certainly does make you feel you are in an Evo.

[spadival]

Thanks for the quick review. Milage isnt bad at all

[Brosreview]

Hey there, thanks for reading and appreciating.

[Brosreview]

Hey there, as per your request, that was a quick one. Yes, the mileage is good considering its under the hood features. Thanks for reading.

[Path_Finder]

Nice review. Mitsubishi is expected to launch the new Lancer in 2009 – Will it also be 150hp or will they detune for India. And wonder whether they will be able to retain the FE on Indian roads and fuel?

[Brosreview]

@Path Finder

Hey there, thanks for reading and appreciating. Umm, you may want to check with your local dealer about the variants due release in your country. We are unaware of the changes Mitsubishi shall make as they release the car there and whether they shall "retain the FE on Indian roads". We apologise.