Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia launches Lancer Sportback
Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia has expanded the Lancer range in our market with the Lancer Sportback 2.4 now added to the line-up sitting alongside the 2.0-litre Lancer EX and Lancer GT sedans. The new model is the first C-segment entry by any manufacturer in Malaysia to feature an engine as large as 2.4 litres.
Priced at RM132,980 inclusive of insurance, Mitsubishi hopes to put the car in the considerations of those looking to either upgrade from the C-segment or downsize from the D-segment. A limited-run (30 units) special edition Lancer Sportback LE with Ralliart accessories goes for just under RM135,000.
“The new Lancer Sportback is set to create a new sporty trend in the passenger car market – it is a good all rounder that’s sporty, good to drive and practical, ideal for those with a modern lifestyle, without compromising on space. With the biggest engine in its class and sport tuned suspension, the Sportback will excite enthusiastic drivers. There’s an equal measure of sharp handling and good ride comfort that will please both driver and passenger,” said Tetsuya Oda, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia.
Powering the Lancer Sportback is the 2.4-litre version of the all-aluminium GEMA ‘World Engines’ whose architecture is shared with Hyundai and Chrysler. The Mitsubishi version is code-named 4B12 and features MIVEC technology, putting out 168hp @ 6,000rpm and 226Nm @ 4,100rpm. Like the Lancer sedans, the Sportback also uses the INVECS-III CVT with six virtual ratios.
The Sportback comes with a decent level of specifications and equipment. All-round independent suspension and disc brakes make for a good start. Safety kit includes Active Stability Control with Traction Control (ASC+T), ABS, EBD, BA, and dual airbags. The tyres are still the same uniquely-sized 215/45 R18 Yokohamas as given on the Lancer GT, but we have been told that a number of other tyre manufacturers are starting offer this size of tyres as well.
Mitsubishi is also keen to advertise on the Lancer Sportback’s generous and flexible cargo volume. The luggage compartment features a height adjustable floor and a tonneau cover. Cargo volume is expandable by 60:40 split folding seats, folded down in a one-touch operation.
After sales of the Lancer Sportback comes in the form of a 3-year/100,000km warranty in addition to a 2-year Free Maintenance package which covers consumables and labour costs.
Contrary to speculation, Proton’s impending launch of the Lancer-based Inspira will not see Lancer sedan discontinued from MMM’s line-up. From our chats with MMM personnel, the company will continue selling the Lancer sedan in its current EX and GT trim levels.
We have, nevertheless, been informed by MMM that MMC has no plans of selling this design to Proton, so don’t expect this to re-incarnate as an Inspira Aeroback anytime soon.
