Daily Independent (Lagos)
Oladunjoye Phillip
26 November 2008
Mitsubishi seems not to be leaving things to chances. It said that it has upgraded its Lancer models with features that will thrill car lovers around the world.
It disclosed that the refinements in the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer were based on the performance-engineered global platform that also form the foundation of the Mitsubishi Outlander SUV, noting that Lancer DE and ES models are now powered by 2.0-litre 152 hp aluminum DOHC MIVEC 4-cylinder engine teamed to either a 5-speed manual transmission or available continuously variable transmission (CVT).
"The Mitsubishi Lancer for 2009 brings the bold, dynamic lines of the new Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution to the showrooms worldwide. With a shark-nosed front end, a distinct wedge-like profile and crisp, taut lines, Lancer is now available as the value-minded DE, the well-equipped ES and the sport-tuned GTS," the company announced.
For 2009, Mitsubishi disclosed that the GTS model has been improved with more powerful 2.4-litre 168hp aluminum DOHC MIVEC 4-cylinder engine, which when equipped with the CVT; the Lancer GTS would exclusively features a 6-step SportronicÆ mode using magnesium steering wheel paddle shifters. The GTS has more aggressive styling, with 18-inches alloy wheels, front and side air dams, fog lights, a rear spoiler and a chrome tailpipe tip. It is also equipped with sport-tuned suspension and larger disc brakes, as well as standard high-contrast meters to enhance its upscale and sporty feel.
The GTS, it said, also features a standard BluetoothÆ wireless technology cell phone interface system with voice recognition for hands-free calling, which is available on the ES. The GTS is exclusively available with the optional navigation system that includes a 30-gigabyte hard drive navigation system with digital music server and Mitsubishi Multi-Communication System.
Apart from these, the company said the GTS models have also been enhanced with some other features which include an 18-inch alloy wheels, 6-speaker audio system, automatic climate control system chrome exhaust finisher, chrome-plated inner door levers, fog lights, front and side air dams and a hands-free Bluetooth cellular phone interface system with voice recognition.
The GTS also come with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, rear spoiler, sport bucket seats in the front, sportronic magnesium steering wheel shifter paddles and a sport-tuned suspension, including front strut tower brace.
Major Standard Features on the DE, the company disclosed, include: 140-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with digital signal processing and MP3 playback capability and four speakers; 16-inch steel wheels with full cover, adjustable rear head restraints (x3), anti-theft engine immobilizer, Auto-off halogen headlamps with DRLs and dual-stage front air bag SRS with front passenger occupant sensors, curtain side air bags, driver's knee air bag, and front seat mounted side-impact air bags.
Other features include power windows and folding side view mirrors, RISE chassis construction, tilt-adjustable steering column and a trunk lid inner trim.
Mitsubishi said the Lancer ES projects a refined appearance with 5-spoke 16-inches alloy wheels, colour-keyed door handles and mirrors and a chrome grille surround, noting that each Lancer model is distinguished by its own distinct seating materials and interior trim, characterize by clean, crisp surfaces and high-quality materials.
On the ES model, the company disclosed that it has added: 16-inch alloy wheels; 60:40 split folding rear seat with folding armrest and cupholders, air conditioning with micron cabin air filtration, anti-lock brakes (ABS) with electronic brake distribution (EBD) and an anti-theft security alarm system.
There are also the inclusion of center floor console box with armrest, chrome grille, color-keyed outer door handles and side view mirrors, floor mats, front map lamps, height-adjustable driver's seat, power locks with remote keyless entry system, rear seat heater floor ducts, steering wheel cell phone ready pre-wire switch, MP3/auxiliary stereo input jack and a steering wheel illuminated cruise and audio control switches.
On safety, Mitsubishi said the standard safety features for all Lancer models include an advanced dual front air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with occupant sensors; standard front seat-mounted side-impact air bags and side curtain air bags, a driver's knee air bag, plus a tyre pressure monitor system. The ES and GTS models add a standard anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), which is also available for the DE.
Also, the company noted that the Fast Key (Freehand Advanced Security Transmitter) entry system has now been included, while an optional Sun and Sound Package is also available for the ES and GTS for 2009. Fast Key, it explained, allows the driver to unlock the vehicle simply by having the remote in a pocket or purse and grasping the handle on either of the front doors. The package also includes a 650-Watt (max.), Rockford-FosgateÆ Premium Audio system plus a power glass sunroof and SIRIUS Satellite Radio with 6- month pre-paid subscription.
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