?2017 Mitsubishi Lancer 2.4 SEL AWC?
A Sporty 4-door sedan for under $25,000
Should you happen to be in the market for an affordable sporty sedan, Mitsubishi?s Lancer lineup offers several to choose from. Select yours based upon performance requirements and budget constraints. There are four models available in the versatile Lancer stable: the base Lancer ES 2.0 is powered by a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter, 148 horsepower, 4-cylinder engine mated to a five-speed manual gearbox that gears motive force to the front wheels; a front wheel drive Lancer ES model that adds features and equipment, powered by a 2.4-liter 168 horsepower engine with All-Wheel Control; next up is the sportier Lancer SE, also driven by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that develops 168 horses along with 167 pound feet of torque; and the flagship MItsubishi Lancer SEL trim with the 2.4 motor and AWC; The 2.4-liter motor mates to either a 5-speed manual or CVT with a 6-step Sportronic? mode utilizing magnesium steering column mounted paddle shifters
In terms of styling, the sheet metal displays an aggressive, muscular image that replicates that of the popular, one-of-a-kind, ultra-high-performance Lancer Evolution sports sedan. The 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer SEL positions itself as one of the more stylish (albeit somewhat boxy) 4-doors available in its price segment. The “shark-nosed” front end resembles that of a jet fighter with its air intakes, distinct wedge-like profile and sharp, tight angular edges. The greenhouse or cabin is sleekly curved, following the sharply sloped hood and angular nose.
Safety offerings make up a comprehensive list, featuring Mitsubishi’s Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) unibody design. Also included as part of the safety package is: the dual front air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with occupant sensors; standard front seat-mounted side-impact air bags and side curtain air bags, along with a driver’s knee air bag; ABS, EBD, BA, Active Stability Control; Traction Control Logic; TPMS; height adjustable front shoulder belts with pretensioners; LATCH child restraint system; child safety rear door locks; anti-theft alarm system and engine immobilizer.
The interior of the Lancer SEL follows the same clean, simple crisp, but sporty theme as the exterior, with a roomy feel and user-friendly gauges and switch gear. Both precision and function are strongly evidenced. The glove box is large, illuminated and damped to avoid bumped knees or shins. The center console in the two upper trim levels adds a rear storage box with an armrest.
While all Lancer models follow a value packaging philosophy, each trim level adds content, allowing the consumer to select the model that best suits his or her needs and budget limitations.
My test 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer was an SEL 2.4liter powered model with the CVT automatic transmission and All Wheel Control. The exterior was finished in Diamond White Pearl metallic, with the interior executed in Black. The MSRP was set at $22,095 while the SEL Sun and Sound Package, along with the Destination and Handling charge elevated the final tally to $22,805.
SUMMARY: Mitsubishi designed the Lancer to meet or exceed customer expectations, which is of course dependent upon what one’s expectations happen to be. Budget of course, is a major issue, but there are so many variables that it should be possible to at least meet practically everyone’s requirements.
Acceleration with the 2.4 liter four-cylinder exceeds a simply adequate level in virtually all driving scenarios. The handling characteristics serve up a sporty feel, and the three-spoke steering wheel displays a nice, comfortable on center feel. The ride quality is both compliant and stable, and leans to what many will feel to be the firm side.
Bottom line, the 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer 2.4 SEL AWC is a simply styled, yet attractive, sporty 4-door sedan (not necessarily flashy) with an impressive inventory of desirable features as standard fare, along with plenty of options available to satisfy personal needs and requirements, making it entirely possible to choose your own level of fun in a practical and sporty form of transportation that won?t break the bank, and that comes with a 5-year or 60,000 mile basic warranty, a 10-year or 100,000 mile limited powertrain warranty, a 7-year or 100,000 mile anti-corrosion warranty, along with a Roadside Assistance program as standard fare.
SPECIFICATIONS: 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer 2.4 SEL AWC
Base Price: $22,095.
Price as Tested: $24,430.
Engine Type and Size: 2.4-liter MIVEC DOHC, 16-valve inline four-cylinder with electronic Multi Point Injection.
Horsepower (bhp): 168 @ 6,000 rpm
Torque (ft./ lbs.): 167 @ 4,100 rpm
Transmission: CVT automatic with ratios between 2.631-0.378.
Drive Train: Transversely mounted front engine / All-Wheel Control ? electronically controlled 4WD system.
Suspension: Front – MacPherson strut with 21mm stabilizer bar.
Rear ? Multi-link with 18mm stabilizer bar.
Brakes: Power-assisted four-wheel discs (vented front), 4-sensor, 4-channel ABS, EBD, Active Stability Control and Traction Control.
Tires: Dunlop SP Sport 5000 ? P215/45 R18 89V M&S mounted on 5 ?V?-spoke with 5 separator spokes (15) alloy wheels.
Wheelbase: 103.7 inches
Length Overall: 182.1 inches
Width: 69.4 inches
Height: 58.7 inches
Curb Weight: 3,142 lbs.
Turning Circle: 32.8 ft.
Fuel Capacity: 14.5 gallons
EPA Mileage Estimates: 23 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
Drag Coefficient: Not listed.
0 – 60 mph: Not tested.
Arv Voss is a Northern California based freelance motoring Journalist and member and past officer of several noted Automotive Journalist organizations who contributes regularly to a number of national and international media outlets. He reviews not only cars, trucks and SUVs, but motorcycles and unusual wheeled vehicles as well.
