Mitsubishi Unveils All-New 2008 Lancer

Early this morning, Mitsubishi took the wraps off of its much-anticipated next generation Lancer sedan. The debut came via their online press website in advance of the Detroit auto show, where the Lancer will be shown for the first time next to the higher-performance Evo model. Perhaps this early look is because the car will be arriving at dealers early next year.

The new car is a radical departure from the econobox styling of the last generation and features an all new architecture shared with the Outlander SUV and a new 152 hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. 

There are three trim levels for the new Lancer: a base DE, ES and sportier GTS. A five-speed manual is standard with a CVT transmission optional. Prices have not been announced, but we expect to hear more in Detroit in early January and the pricing should be in line with the current model’s range.

Mitsubishi has slowly been reinvigorating its aging lineup, starting with the Eclipse last year and the new Outlander SUV this year. Both have had positive receptions in the media and sales are up, but Mitsubishi still needs a hit with a volume vehicle. The Lancer is the company’s economy car, one that could radically change the fortunes of the brand in the U.S. where it has been struggling for the past few years. With this new style and, we’re assuming, an improved driving experience as well, the new Lancer could be a big seller.

Comments

This new Lancer looks amazing. The improved styling and more powerful engine are going to be huge improvements. I hope they don't raise the price too much because the Lancer's low price was the car's biggest selling point.

I'm a fan of the more aggressive Mitsubishi line up. For a long time, Mitsubishi had no identifying marks that made it distinct from other manufacturers outside of the Evo.

The only quirk I have with the design is the grille on the front. It reminds me of the econobox grill that is on there today. I would have rather seen a more aggressive chrome grill, similar to what Ford is installing on its lineup.

This new Lancer is everything I want. I love the direction Mitsubishi is taking and I'm the exact group they're going after, Gen Y.

It looks stunning and I would buy it in a second. I'm just praying they reinvent the 3000GT!

As Paris Hilton would say, "that's hot." I personally hope the rumors are true and that there's a Ralliart model with AWD and a detuned Evo motor putting out about 230 HP. It would be a great WRX fighter while the Evo can take on the WRX STi. I'd buy it in a second.

I own a 2004 Lancer ES, and i have to say its probably the best car we've ever had and in my opinion the best lookin car we've ever had. If i could get this car i would, although it kinda reminds me of the Charger.

amazing!!!!!!!!!! i just hope Mitsubishi got the formula right with this one.

Se? This is what a good car looks like! Why could GM not bring us something with these lines and curves?

Hell, I'd give anything for that powertrain in my Cobalt.

Looks like a Mazda 6 which is a good car but mazda have trouble getting them of the lot hence the big rebates. I don't know how good mitsu is going to do styling a car after the 6 which gets restyled itself in a year or two.
IF it's cheaper then 15K which is what a 6 goes for after rebates and with 100k warrenty they might have a winner. Just my two cents.

i am italian and i don't speak english very well. in italy there isn't too much lancer but i have got a lancer evo 6 take a few day ago (in 2007). i use this for rally in Saronno (26 km of Milan),(Lombardia). I buy it at Saccomanno in Saronno hello, my adress of messenger is berlusconijk@hotmail.it .... hello!!!

omg, this car..why couldn't it come out eaaaarlier?!?! ahhhh!!! anyone know when it will actually hit the canadian market? and price? anyone know at all? =(

GIMME GIMME NOW!