Mitsubishi Motors Corporation will unveil, for the first time at an international motor show, the Lancer Sportback
at the Le Mondial de l'Automobile 2008 (Paris Motor Show 2008) being
held in Halls 1-8 of the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles from October 2
(October 4 for the general public) through October 19. The Lancer Sportback will have its European launch this fall with a phased introduction into the various countries in the region.
The company will also be displaying the Lancer Ralliart and Lancer Sportback Ralliart models that are based on the Lancer*1
sports sedan and Lancer Sportback. These models are powered by a
turbocharged engine mated to Mitsubishi's Twin Clutch SST (Sport Shift
Transmission) and delivering power to all four wheels through an Active
Center Differential.
*1 Named the Galant Fortis in Japan
With its inverted-slant nose and trapezoidal grille that defines the Mitsubishi Motors design identity the sporty Lancer Sportback
is a 5-door sport hatchback, a body type that is very popular in
Europe. The model is available in versions powered by 1.5-liter (109PS)
or 1.8-liter (143PS) gasoline engines or by a 2.0-liter (140PS) turbo
diesel engine. The Lancer Sportback offers an "auto-folding
function" which enhances luggage compartment convenience through
adjustable rear floor height and rear seatbacks that can be tipped
forward via a lever located in the luggage compartment. The series is
due to be joined by a model powered by Mitsubishi Motors' new diesel
engine in spring of 2009.
The Lancer Ralliart and Lancer Sportback Ralliart models use a new turbocharged 2-liter 4-cylinder DOHC MIVEC*2
engine [maximum output 177 kW (240PS), maximum torque 343 Nm (35 kgm)].
This is mated to Mitsubishi's high-efficiency Twin Clutch SST
transmission with an Active Center Differential, for extremely
responsive steering and traction through tailoring the amount of torque
fed to each wheel to optimally suit driving conditions. Also helping to
significantly raise the basic performance attributes of these cars over
the Lancer base model are 2-pot caliper front brakes and a larger brake master cylinder.
*2 Mitsubishi Innovative Valve lift and timing Electronic Control system