2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback/Review

Pricing: $17,095 to $28,095 MSRP  /$16,373 to $26,909 Invoice Price

EPA Fuel Economy (MPG):    17 - 24 City/25 - 32 Highway

Hatchback style blends with sporty performance in the quick and sporty 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback.

The 2011 Lancer Sportback is the hatchback version of the Lancer sedan and now comes in three trims: ES, GTS, and Ralliart.  A more-powerful and race-inspired Lancer Evolution is available for die-hard drivers.  The ES uses a 148-horsepower (143 in California), 2.0-liter MIVEC engine that produces 145/143 pounds-feet of torque and is paired to a five-speed manual or an optional continuously variable automatic transmission.  The GTS features a 168-horsepower (161 in California), 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 167 pounds-feet of torque and a five speed manual or CVT.  The race-inspired Ralliart boasts a 237-horsepower turbocharged, 2.0-liter four-cylinder that cranks out 253 pounds-feet of torque and is mated to a six-speed, dual-clutch automated manual.

For added handling, the 2011 Lancer Sportback Ralliart incorporates all-wheel drive and a sport-tuned suspension (also on the GTS) so that you can take corners with ease.  Fuel economy ratings range from 17-25 mpg in the city and 25-32 mpg on the highway depending on your choice of trim/engine.  Competition includes the Mazda3 and Subaru Impreza. 

The 2011 Lancer Sportback has the sedan’s menacing front air dam and bumper, but becomes its own with an angular rear fascia and rear spoiler.  Sixteen-inch wheels are standard, while 18-inch wheels are optional.  Fog lights, chrome exhaust tip, dual exhaust, large rear spoiler, sport-tuned suspension, and a Ralliart grille and bumper are all optional.

The Lance Sportback carries seating for five, and also adds cargo space (52.7 cubic feet) as well as a two-position height-adjustable cargo floor for more storage versatility.  The ES comes with a 140-watt audio system with four speakers and a urethane wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.  Options include a navigation system with a 30 GB hard drive, keyless entry, heated leather seats, six-way adjustable driver’s seats, sport front bucket seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, sport fabric, and chrome instrument panel accents.  Mitsubishi’s new Fuse hands-free link system with USB port that manages your iPod and Bluetooth® hands-free calling is available.

The 2011 Lancer Sportback takes safety seriously, with its Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution unibody construction that features front and rear crumple zones.  Active Stability Control with traction control, antilock brakes, a tire pressure monitoring system, and seven airbags, which include a driver’s knee airbag, are standard.