Mitsubishi launched it’s the new Lancer LXd 2.0 on Indian Road. The 1468cc base engine is not particularly powerful or torquey, but it is a smooth and refined car that prefers relaxed cruising to spirited driving, and is stress-free, particularly in the city. It has decent fuel economy figures — 11.6 kpl in city and 15.6kpl on the highway.

 

The interiors are a disappointment after the buoyant exterior: the cabin looks dull, uses dull grey plastics, and although it is well designed and ergonomically sound, it’s some way behind the high-quality interiors. The seats are comfortable and supportive, and the seat and steering are adjustable. Leg and headroom are great both front and rear. The Lancer is available in three versions: the original 1.5-litre petrol, which now props up the rest of the range, a 2.0-litre diesel and the new 1.8-litre petrol, available only with the INVECS gearbox.

 

The Lancer’s safety-enhanced body structure comprises front and rear crushable zones that effectively absorb the impact energy of front & rear collisions. Adding to all-around protection of occupant i.e. a deformation-resistant, highly rigid cabin structure that features strategic reinforcements plus large side-door impact bars. Its Collapsible Steering intelligently designed to telescope inward on impact significantly increasing safety for Driver. Its centrally located fuel tank to minimize risk of damage in case of a collision. Also has a fuel cut off valve to prevent leakage of fuel in the case of a roll over.

 

Its performance is amazed Inspiring performance of 0-100km/hr in just under 12.9sec. Its aerodynamics body results in Low coefficient of drag of 0.3 that offers least resistance to wind which ensures better engine efficiency - helps in saving fuel, Offers least resistance to wind,   Ensures better engine efficiency, Helps maintain fuel economy. It Meets Bharat Stage III Emission Standards. Its Ground Clearance of 185 mm prevents underbody damages ideal for Indian Roads.

 

The 2.0-litre diesel, again, is not an exceptional motor. It has a modest 65bhp and only 12.54kgm of torque, but its refinement has to be felt to be believed. Using ‘Super Silent Shaft technology,’ it feels perfectly balanced and silent, and it’s exceptionally responsive for a diesel, with punchy gear ratios and lots of bottom-end whack. The overwhelming flexibility means even top-end performance is startling, and the gearbox is one of the very best on the market; however, top speed and highway poise are surprisingly ordinary. The best of the lot is the sporty 1.8, with 120bhp and 16.5kgm of torque; the best part isn’t the power though, it’s the superb INVECS-II gearbox, a simplified version of Porsche’s famed Tiptronic box, which works as an automatic with a manual ‘tip-shift’ function. It works seamlessly as an automatic, but slot the lever to the side, and it works as a manual, in which you have to ‘tip’ the lever forward to change up, or pull back to change down, which makes it excellent for hard driving. The engine is very responsive and energetic, with impressive punch between 3000-5000rpm.

Filed under: Mitsubishi Cars in India