Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart Sportback 2012 review

We turn the spotlight on the car world's newest and brightest stars as we ask the questions to which you want the answers. But there's only one question that really needs answering -- would you buy one?

What is it?

This is the penultimate Lancer, one rung below the Evo but a whole lot more liveable on a day to day basis. It has the Evo engine (detuned) and sports suspension but not race spec'. Generous equipment level gives plenty of luxury and it looks pretty good in the Sportback version.

How much?

You can have the sedan or the Sportback for the same price - $44,490 both with six-speed dual-clutch manumatic called SST with wheel mounted paddle shift.

A "luxury" pack that includes leather, xenons, premium audio and the excellent Mitsubishi Multi Communications System is optional at around four grand taking the price horribly close to $50K.

What are competitors?

It sells against a swag of Euro models - VW,  Alfa, Renault, Volvo and Mazda MPS, WRX.

What's under the bonnet?

Plenty of power comes from the 2.0-litre turbo four rated at 177kW/343Nm. It's basically the same donk as the Lancer Evo with a different turbo and variable valve timing on the inlet and exhaust sides. 

The multi mode all wheel drive system gives additional grip, drive and safety and the SST six-speeder flicks quickly between gears but has smoothness issues at parking speeds.

How does it go?

Impressive performer with strong off the mark acceleration, strong mid-range and strong top-end. The exhaust sound is disappointing.Two-mode transmission offers Normal and Sport.

Is it economical?

Allegedly capable of 9.8-litres/100km (of 98 octane) but we couldn't get that. The best was 10.3 on cruise on the highway.

Is it green?

No.

Is it safe?

Yes, scores a five star ANCAP rating and has seven air bags as well as specially reinforced body, stability control and other life saving technology. Responsive dynamics also help avoid a collision in the first place.

Is it comfortable?

Surprisingly good for people who don't want the hard riding, much more expensive Evo. Noise is at a minimum inside the well appointed cabin now with more soft feel surfaces. Excellent driving position, decent audio, roomy for four, five at a pinch.

What's it like to drive?

An alternative to a WRX but not as quick. Has a classy feel to it. Quick steering response, corners well and has powerful brakes. Flick it into Sport and it becomes a lot more focussed on fast.

Is it value for money?

Pretty good but some of the competition is super sharp - Renault Megane RS250 (front wheel drive only) for example and Golf GTi (same). Gets plenty of kit including auto headlights and wipers, 18-inch alloys, reversing camera, Bluetooth 2.0, smart key ignition, auto fold exterior mirrors and Ralliart front seats.

Would we buy one?

Would definitely be on the "look at" list especially with fixed price servicing.