2013 Mitsubishi Lancer

CHANGES FOR 2013:

• GT AWC model added.
• Special 10th Anniversary edition added.
• Paint changes: Cosmic Blue added.

Mitsubishi’s aging entrant in the über-crowded compact segment is available in four trim levels, all FWD models powered by a 148-hp 2.0L aluminum four. If you opt for the automatic, which most Canadians do, you’ll get a continuously variable transmission with six “virtual” gears quickly selectable by magnesium shift paddles. It adds a bit of spice to an otherwise average car. The interior looks cheap and dated. New for 2013 is the CVT-only GT AWC model with a 168-hp 2.4L four, AWD, leather, kickin’ audio, and hydraulic steering for better feel.

In DE trim, features include 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission, 16-inch steel wheels, airbags (front, front seat, side curtain, driver's knee), LATCH, tire pressure monitoring system, front and rear disc brakes, black mesh grille, auto-off headlights, folding power mirrors, 4-way driver and passenger seats, cloth seating, air filtration, power locks, power windows, 4-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio, tilt/telescopic steering, multi-information display, and "ECO" mode indicator (CVT).

SE trim adds security alarm, 16-inch alloy wheels, chrome grille surround, front air dam, body colour heated mirrors and door handles, heated front seats, 6-way adjustable driver's seat, 60/40 split folding rear seat, premium seat fabric, map lights, front centre armrest, floor mats, air conditioning, Bluetooth phone connectivity with streaming audio, keyless entry, cruise control, and multifunction steering wheel.

SE AWC adds 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, CVT transmission, all-wheel drive, rear stabilizer bar, and rear spoiler.

10th Anniversary adds (to SE) 5-spoke 15-inch wheels, fog lights, sunroof, rear spoiler, exhuast top, 10th Anniversary badge, leather wrapped steering wheel/shift knob/parking brake lever, and Hydrographic instrument panel.

GT adds (to SE) 5-spoke 16-inch wheels, Ralliart front bumper and grille, fog lights, sunroof, exhaust tip, leather seating, leather wrapped steering wheel/shift knob/parking brake lever, Hydrographic instrument panel, chrome HVAC controls and interior door handles, automatic climate control, keyless entry, push button start, 710-watt 6-disc Rockford Fosgate Punch audio system with 9 speakers including subwoofer, satellite radio, high contrast gauges, and colour multi-information display.

GT AWC adds (to SE AWC) 5-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels, Ralliart front bumper and grille, fog lights, sunroof, exhaust tip, leather seating, leather wrapped steering wheel/shift knob/parking brake lever, Hydrographic instrument panel, chrome HVAC controls and interior door handles, automatic climate control, keyless entry, push button start, 710-watt 6-disc Rockford Fosgate Punch audio system with 9 speakers including subwoofer, satellite radio, high contrast gauges, and colour multi-information display.