The Ralliart's driving attributes aren't all that is performance oriented, however, as it features a slamin' audio
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| The optional 315-watt, 7-speaker, Mitsubishi/Infinity AM/FM/CD audio system includes an 8-inch trunk-mounted subwoofer. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press) |
system. I am not one to crank the tunes up in order to get attention, but I was inspired to push the limits of the optional 315-watt, 7-speaker, Mitsubishi/Infinity AM/FM/CD audio system diggin' deep with an 8-inch trunk-mounted subwoofer. It's fantastic. Even the songs from my favorite soft rock radio station almost sounded cool enough to pump up the volume. I know, Ace of Base and Celine Dion aren't the hippest artists on the block, but heck, this system even makes the old stuff sound good. OK, maybe that's a stretch, but the bottom line is that the sound quality rocks.
That audio system comes as half of the optional sun and sound package, a $1,975 add-on that includes a one-touch power sunroof with vent and sunshade. West Coast weather is very unpredictable, but when the rain wasn't pouring down the sunroof was open.
As mentioned, I had to turn up the volume a little more than usual to get a few more heads to turn the Ralliart's way, which brings up the point of styling. While attractive, all on its own it doesn't exactly cause people to snap their heads around for a double take. As Johnathon, one of my temporary children and a huge
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| While attractive, the Lancer doesn't exactly cause people to snap their heads around for a double take. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press) |
car buff at 12 years-old said, "I like it, but it looks just like every other sedan on the road." He's right. This could work for or against the Lancer. Its modest good looks and generic curves allow it to appeal to all generations in an inoffensive way. That behind us, I would have liked a little more flare. The color-keyed front, side and rear body ground effects with rear spoiler and stainless steel exhaust did make it sporty, but the wimpy 'Ralliart' badge pasted to the rear hardly shows off its many endearing qualities. Perhaps a distinctive color specifically designed for this trim, like the MazdaSpeed Protegé's Titanium Gray or Blazing Yellow would have had my motor revving a little higher, and maybe even some more badging on the sides would have helped.
