Mechanical marvels
The 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart may not be as potent as the Evo but it still generates 237 horsepower, which is more than enough in this application. Essentially, the Evo's engine has been detuned, and believe it or not, turbo lag is reduced, making the Ralliart explosive at lower revs.
Engineers realized that the twin-clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (SST) was one of the highlights of the top-level Lancer – and one of the best gearboxes in the industry – so they made the smart move of fitting it to the Ralliart as well. The result is nothing short of outstanding; the paddle shifters behind the wheel deliver lightning-quick shifts at all times.
Completing the drivetrain is a remarkable all-wheel drive system which Mitsubishi calls ''Super All-Wheel Control'' (S-AWC). Three different modes (Snow, Tarmac, Gravel) offer three different groups of settings, each working seamlessly and effectively.
As for the steering, suspension and chassis, the Ralliart feels more civilized than the hardcore Evo.
Just sporty enough
Obviously, my road test didn't take place at the best time of the year, meaning that I was unable to properly exploit the sportiness of the Ralliart in safe driving conditions. Yet, a couple of quick tests made me realize that this car has a lot of potential.
While a bit too firm for my passengers, the suspension excels at keeping the body in check and thus eliminating unpleasant, useless weight transfers in sharp corners. The steering is sharp but lacks some on-centre feel.
The 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart may not be as potent as the Evo but it still generates 237 horsepower, which is more than enough in this application. Essentially, the Evo's engine has been detuned, and believe it or not, turbo lag is reduced, making the Ralliart explosive at lower revs.
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| The twin-clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (SST) is one of the best gearboxes in the industry. (Photo: Mitsubishi) |
Engineers realized that the twin-clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (SST) was one of the highlights of the top-level Lancer – and one of the best gearboxes in the industry – so they made the smart move of fitting it to the Ralliart as well. The result is nothing short of outstanding; the paddle shifters behind the wheel deliver lightning-quick shifts at all times.
Completing the drivetrain is a remarkable all-wheel drive system which Mitsubishi calls ''Super All-Wheel Control'' (S-AWC). Three different modes (Snow, Tarmac, Gravel) offer three different groups of settings, each working seamlessly and effectively.
As for the steering, suspension and chassis, the Ralliart feels more civilized than the hardcore Evo.
Just sporty enough
Obviously, my road test didn't take place at the best time of the year, meaning that I was unable to properly exploit the sportiness of the Ralliart in safe driving conditions. Yet, a couple of quick tests made me realize that this car has a lot of potential.
While a bit too firm for my passengers, the suspension excels at keeping the body in check and thus eliminating unpleasant, useless weight transfers in sharp corners. The steering is sharp but lacks some on-centre feel.
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| A couple of quick tests made me realize that this car has a lot of potential. (Photo: Mitsubishi) |