5 Reasons to Love the Lancer Ralliart
Discover why the Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart remains a gem for car enthusiasts who adore speed without burning a hole in their pocket. It's not just any car—it’s a rally heritage packaged in a street-friendly ride.
Overview
The Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart bridges the gap between the base model Lancer and its high-octane sibling, the Evolution. Offering a turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive, the Ralliart is designed for those who want a bit of zest in their daily drive without committing to the high maintenance and fuel consumption of a full-blown sports sedan.
Key Features
- Engine: 2.0L MIVEC Turbocharged
- Power: 237 HP
- Drivetrain: All-Wheel Control (AWC)
- Transmission: Twin Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission
Performance
While the Ralliart might not make every racer's heart beat faster, it’s quick enough to spice up a trip to the grocery store. Remember though, while it promises to be quick on its feet, don't expect it to outpace the more fierce Evo on a track day.
What's Under the Hood
The heart of the Ralliart is a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that produces a hearty 237 horsepower. While it shares many components with the Evo, it’s tuned for more everyday reliability and less "I'm going to eat this track for breakfast" aggressiveness which honestly, is a bit of a bummer when you wanna show off a bit.
Handling and Driveability
With its all-wheel-drive system, the Lancer Ralliart handles with poise and confidence. The road grip is admirable unless you’re trying to mimic a Tokyo Drift scene—then it’s a bit less than stellar. But for most, it’ll make driving in wet weather less of a hair-raising event.
Drawbacks (Because Perfection is Boring)
Let’s chuckle a bit over what might make you rethink the Ralliart:
- Thirsty for Fuel: Loves a drink more often than your average sedan.
- Rough Ride: Might exchange comfort for performance; not great if your coffee is a carpool regular.
- Interior Blahs: The cabin won't wow you with luxury—it's more about utility here.
Owner's Insight
Alex Collantes, owner of Avenue Motors, shares, "The Lancer Ralliart? A fantastic choice for folks who get a kick out of driving. It's got enough fire to keep your commutes interesting but remember—it's not an Evo. And yes, it’ll ask for premium fuel like a posh drinker at a bar."
FAQs About the Lancer Ralliart
1. What year models of the Lancer Ralliart are best? Best go for models after 2009 when updates were more robust.
2. Can I modify the Ralliart to be faster? Sure, but keep your warranty in mind before tweaking things.
3. What are common problems with the Lancer Ralliart? Turbo issues and transmission hiccups top the list.
4. How does it compare to the Subaru WRX? It's like choosing between pepperoni or sausage on your pizza—both spicy, but different flavors!
5. Is it suitable for daily driving? Absolutely, if you don’t mind the firmer ride and frequent fuel stops.
6. What’s the maintenance cost like? A bit higher than your average car, thanks to its sporty nature.
7. Are parts easily available? Yes, though some might need to be ordered due to its niche appeal.
8. How’s the resale value? Decent, but it won’t hold its value like the Evo.
9. Is the Ralliart good in snow? With proper tires, it’s a winter warrior.
10. Any tips for buying a used Ralliart? Check for regular maintenance records and be wary of modified units.
Final Thoughts
While the Lancer Ralliart might flirt with the performance line, it remains an accessible and exhilarating option for those looking to add a bit of rally-inspired excitement to their drive. Just remember its love for premium gas when it comes time to fill up!
For more details on sizing and specs, you can visit this link.