2005 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart

2005 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart (Photo: Michel Deslauriers, Auto123)

The Lancer Ralliart's handling is one of its highlights. The sport-tuned suspension can be a little harsh over some road imperfections, but it rewards you with flat cornering; throw the car in tight curves, and you'll feel very little body roll, if at all. Braking is just as impressive, with its 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS and EBD. Steering is direct and precise, and the relatively small diameter of the wheel gives a go-kart feel to the driving experience. However, the turning circle of the Ralliart is way wider than that of lesser models. Maybe it's because of the space needed to insert the bigger engine, or the sport suspension, which prevent the wheels from turning as much as the base models. Who knows.

Inside, you'll find an example of excellent simplicity. The dash is made of what seems like quality cushy plastic, accented by carbon fibre-style trimmings. Rotary heat and ventilation controls are straightforward, and the output of the optional 315-watt sound system that includes 7 speakers that comes as part of the $1,975 Sun and Sound package sounds great. The black-on-white gauges glow a soft orange at night, maybe not bright enough for some. The seats are extremely comfortable and offer very good lateral support. They are made with some very grippy fabric and the driver's seat offers an adjustment for the seat cushion. All the switchgear and controls look rich, feel rich, and work so well.

2005 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart (Photo: Michel Deslauriers, Auto123)

As for interior space, it's sufficient for four adults, even with a sunroof. In back, you'll find just enough legroom and headroom, although someone sitting in the middle of the rear bench might think you have a grudge against him or her, being on the "hump" of the seat cushion and having to lean against the seatback that includes a fold-down armrest. Trunk space is about as spacious as its competitors, and the trunk opening is wide.

With a base price of $22,188, and equipped as it is, I think this Lancer Ralliart is a steal. Not to mention that you can get a good deal, since Mitsubishi isn't exactly selling tons of them. As a bonus, you get the best warranty around, including a 10-year powertrain coverage. This test car, equipped with the aforementioned Sunroof and sound system package, as well as side-impact airbags and 6-CD changer, costs $24,798. As far as competition goes, a 2006 Ford Focus ZX4 ST sells for $22,999, a 2006 Mazda3 GT sedan sells for $21,545, a 2006 Sentra SE-R Spec V sells for $22,198, a 2006 Subaru Impreza 2.5i sedan sells for $23,495, and a 2006 Toyota Corolla XRS sells for $24,445.

For 2006, you should expect a new front fascia on all Lancer models, among other minor exterior and interior improvements.

2005 Mitsubishi Colt Ralliart (Photo: Mitsubishi Motors Canada)

Automotive forums, including Auto123's, have Mitsu fans begging for the company to find a way to import the Mitsubishi Colt, a 3- or 5-door subcompact sold in Japan and in various countries across Europe, which also has a Ralliart edition with a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine that develops about 147 horsepower.

I don't know what more to say, other than the Lancer Ralliart, as well as the other Mitsubishi models, deserves better than you passing in front of their dealership while shopping for a new car, without stopping and checking them out.

What I like:
Excellent handling
Fun to drive
Competitive pricing

What I don't like:
Large turning circle
The only Ralliart model in Mitsubishi's lineup in Canada

CLICK HERE to view the 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart's specifications.