2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback Ralliart Fun For Nanaimo Drivers

Jan. 24, 2011 - PRLog -- Essentially a slightly detuned, 5-door version of Mitsubishi’s legendary Lancer Evolution sports sedan, the turbocharged 2011 Lancer Sportback Ralliart may be the most dynamic grocery getter/family hauler available in the North American market today.

The Lancer Sportback Ralliart comes equipped with a slightly modified version of the Lancer Evolution MR’s sensational 6-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST) that enables instantaneous upshifts and downshifts with no need for a driver-operated clutch pedal that are perfectly matched to the engine’s speed via advanced electronics every time.

Nanaimo Mitsubishi drivers can execute shifts by pushing forward or pulling back on the transmission’s shift lever or Formula 1 style, thanks to lightweight magnesium alloy panel shifters behind the steering wheel. The TC-SST system can also be set to different driving modes – Normal and Sport – with the latter improving the transmission’s performance by improving throttle response while allowing for higher shift points and even faster shifting. What’s more, the driver can choose to shift gears manually or switch to a fully automated mode that allows the system to shift on its own like a conventional automatic transmission.

The Lancer Sportback Ralliart also includes an advanced All-Wheel Control (AWC) system that bestows this stylish 5-door with a remarkable degree of increased grip and handling capability. AWC includes an Active Center Differential (ACD) that can split power up to a 50:50 mix between the front and rear wheels using an electronically-controlled hydraulic multi-plate clutch; limited-slip front and rear differentials that can bias power side to side between the front wheels and also the rear wheels; and Active Stability Control (ASC) with Traction Control Logic (TCL). The ASC system includes both traction control and stability control and helps to stabilize the vehicle further by better controlling engine power and the brake force at each individual wheel.

Not a hard-edged rally replica like its sibling, the Lancer Evolution sedan, the Ralliart is a middling member of the hot compact class. The Ralliart’s ,237 horsepower, power is easily sufficient (zero to 60 in 5.5 seconds, according to Motor Trend).

The Ralliart has the important equipment: all-wheel drive, naturally, and 18-inch Yokohama tires. The drivetrain incorporates limited-slip differentials front and rear, and a console switch for the computer-controlled center differential offers settings for paved road, gravel or snow. The dual-clutch transmission can be shifted manually using paddles on the steering column. In Mitsubishi’s layout, the paddles are stationary, not turning with the steering wheel — a setup I much prefer. The gearbox is fast and sure when pressed hard, though it seems easily confused in relaxed driving, reluctant to automatically downshift when you ease into the gas pedal at highway speeds.

The steering is fast and direct, same story on the brakes.

The interior is dressed up with sporty touches like aluminum pads on the foot pedals, and Mitsubishi provides its FUSE hands-free system to link your personal electronics with the car. There’s 13.8 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 46.6 with the back seats folded.

Free Feature For Nanaimo Mitsubishi Drivers

Included free of charge on every 2011 Lancer GTS and Ralliart model is Mitsubishi’s excellent FUSE HandsFree Link System that allows access to your phone, iPod®, or USB drive simply by the sound of your voice. By using voice commands, you can play your favorite songs by genre, artist, album or playlist and make hands-free phone calls.

Stop by Harris Mitsubishi today to check out this new vehicle. Give it a test drive and ask their friendly service staff about this top of the line vehicle. For more information on Harris Mitsubishi, please call 888-563-7440 or visit http://www.harrismitsubishi.ca/.