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2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart Preview
Sep 15 2008 by Sherrice Gilsbach
9/15/08
Ralliart is Right Up Speed-Demon Mom’s Driveway
The 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart is the sweet-looking lil’ bro to the much-loved Lancer Evolution, but it’s sure to find a niche of its own with its scaled-back features and attractive pricing ($26,490). The Ralliart boasts a fun-to-drive personality plus everyday driving conveniences like auxiliary ports for gadgets, steering-wheel controls, keyless entry/ignition and ample trunk space to humor your most impulsive shopping trips.
Lead-footed mommies need to pay attention; this car is right up your driveway. Its auto-manual transmission gives it automatic and paddle-manual capabilities, with seamless transitions between gears. The suspension is smooth as silk and makes quick maneuvers seem like child’s play.
The Ralliart’s interior is the only part of this car that didn’t thrill me. I like my in-dash controls easy to find and use, but there’s a fine line between simple elegance and just plain drab. The Ralliart is a bit of a yawn inside. Also, all of the test-fleet cars had the optional Recaro racing seats that placed me too low for comfort in the Ralliart. Nope, I’m just not cool enough to sport the low ride. I’d stick with the standard seats, which are much more adjustable.
If I had to guess, I’d say this baby was born under the sign of Gemini. With its split personality, the Ralliart can be a rally racer one moment and a daily commuting car the next moment. For the racecar mama, the Lancer Ralliart might appeal to both sides of your personality, too.
