MITSUBISHI PRESS RELEASE
Each Lancer model is distinguished by its own distinct seating materials and interior trim.
Major Standard Features (DE)
• 140-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with digital signal processing, MP3 playback capability and four speakers
• 16-inch steel wheels with full cover
• Adjustable rear head restraints (x3)
• Anti-theft engine immobilizer
• Auto-off halogen headlamps with DRLs
• Dual-stage front air bag SRS with front passenger occupant sensors, curtain side air bags, driver's knee air bag, and front seat mounted side-impact air bags
• Power windows and folding side view mirrors
• RISE chassis construction
• Side marker lamps
• Tilt-adjustable steering column
• Trunk lid inner trim
ES model adds:
• 16-inch alloy wheels
• 60:40 split folding rear seat with folding armrest and cupholders
• Air conditioning with micron cabin air filtration
• Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with electronic brake distribution (EBD)
• Anti-theft security alarm system
• Center floor console box with armrest
• Chrome grille, color-keyed outer door handles and side view mirrors
• Floor mats
• Front map lamps
• Height-adjustable driver's seat
• Power locks with remote keyless entry system
• Rear seat heater floor ducts
• Steering wheel Bluetooth cell phone ready pre-wire switch
• Steering wheel illuminated cruise and audio control switches GTS models add over ES:
• 18-inch alloy wheels
• 6-speaker audio system
• Automatic climate control system
• Chrome exhaust finisher
• Chrome-plated inner door levers
• Fog lights
• Front and side air dams
• Hands-free Bluetooth cellular phone interface system with voice recognition
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
• Rear spoiler
• Sport bucket seats (front)
• Sportronic magnesium steering wheel shifter paddles (with optional continuously variable transmission)
• Sport-tuned suspension including front strut tower brace
Option Packages
• A/C & Power Package (DE model): air conditioning, anti-lock brake system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), power door locks and driver's window auto-up function.
• Sun & Sound Package (ES and GTS models): 650-Watt (max.) Rockford-Fosgate Premium Audio system with PUNCH control; 6CD/MP3 in-dash changer; auxiliary stereo input jack; power glass sunroof with sunshade and SIRIUS Satellite Radio with 6-month pre-paid service subscription.
• Navigation & Technology Package (GTS): FAST Key entry system; Hard Disk Drive (30GB) satellite GPS navigation system with 7.5-inch touch panel, digital music server and single-disc player and Mitsubishi Multi-Communication System.
DESIGN
The all-new 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer brings the bold, dynamic and taut lines of the company's show-stopping Concept-X to the showroom. First shown in 2005, the stunning Concept X previewed not only the next generation compact sport sedan from Mitsubishi, but also a new design language to convey an unmistakable brand identity. The exciting new design serves as the perfect showcase to package the 2008 Lancer's European-inspired driving dynamics, refined interior appointments and impressive equipment levels.
The new Lancer offers a distinctive interpretation of the new Mitsubishi design language - first seen on the new-generation Outlander for 2007 - that conveys the performance-oriented essence of the brand. Variations on the aggressive-looking front end, in particular, will be seen on more future Mitsubishi models.
Dimensionally, the new-generation 2008 Lancer projects a tighter, more confident road-hugging stance. The new Lancer is built on a longer wheelbase and wider track, but with a slightly shorter overall length. A 2.3-inch increase in both the front and rear track dimensions - now 60.2 in. - contributes to Lancer's solid, stable handling capability as well as its strong visual presence.
Wheelbase was lengthened to 103.7 in. from 102.3 in, and overall width was increased by nearly three inches from 66.7 in to 69.4 in. A 2.3-inch gain in overall height directly translates into increased headroom. Vehicle length has been reduced by 0.6-in. The overall design emphasizes the wheels, an effect that is especially pronounced with the GTS model's standard 18-in. alloy wheels and 215/45 R18 tires.
Sharks and Jets
Starting in front, Lancer's grille, bumper and lower air intake are unified in a distinct form inspired by jet fighter air intakes for a "shark nosed" effect. Although the all-new Lancer proportions draw some inspiration from European designs, the sharp, thin front head lamp design conveys the feel of Japanese precision and technology that strongly appeals to the target market.
"There will be no mistaking the Lancer for any other compact sedan as it approaches in your rear-view mirror," said Sims.
The new-generation 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer is available in three levels of trim and driving dynamics: DE, ES and the sport-tuned GTS. The Lancer ES model projects a more refined appearance with 5-spoke 16-in. alloy wheels, color-keyed door handles and mirrors and a chrome grille surround. The GTS's styling is even more aggressive than other Lancer models, with its 10-spoke 18-in. alloy wheels, front and side air dams, standard fog lights, a rear spoiler and a chrome tailpipe tip.
Chiseled Profile
The clean, creased surfaces sweep into the side profile, with its dynamic daylight opening and high, wedged, belt-line. The prominently flared fenders recall the brand's Evo heritage and World Rally Championship (WRC) cars, and, particularly on the GTS model, emphasize the 18-inch alloy wheels in the overall sleek side silhouette.
The Lancer is meant to be as distinctive from the rear as from the front. The solid structure of the side shoulder sweeps from the head lamps all the way back into the rear to frame the high-mounted lamp clusters, unifying the design theme. The sculptured, "chopped off" tail accentuates the car's sporty cabin shape. From a front three-quarter view, the rear overhang is visually shortened by a chiseled, tapering rear bumper side surface.
The tail lamp clusters themselves are like small works of techno art, enclosing three trimmed circles divided by function. The Illumination simulates LED lighting. The distinctive, chopped tail and unique taillights form the ideal frame for the large, distinctive Mitsubishi three-diamond brand mark.
The Color of Performance
A new color palette reinforces the Lancer design's strength and presence. The 2008 Lancer offers a choice of eight exterior colors: Graphite Gray has a strong mechanical quality; Apex Silver conveys a forged, mechanical look; Aqua Green is a fashion-inspired aqua-tinted silver with a metallic sheen; Electric Blue is a vivid and translucent take on one of today's hottest colors for sporty cars; Rally Red is a brilliant, premium red evoking the brand's WRC competition vehicles; Tarmac Black gives Lancer an amethyst-like glow; Wicked White has a sharp sophistication, and finally, Desert Beige adds a touch of elegance. All colors except Wicked White are metallic.
Lancer Interior Offers "Class-Up" Design and Features
Just as the new-generation 2008 Lancer brings a new level of exterior design sophistication, its interior also shows a new international flair. In addition, its generous feature content reflects the brand's focus on delivering "class-up" customer value in its vehicles and price ranges - that is, features and user technology one might expect to see in more expensive vehicles.
As with the exterior, the Lancer's interior is characterized by clean and crisp surfaces, free of gimmicks and using high-quality materials and marked by careful attention to detail. The curved instrument panel with peaked center section is highlighted by a full-width horizontal trim section.
This central panel is molded in black geometric grain material in the Lancer DE, dark silver painted in the ES and a printed geometric pattern in the GTS. All models carry their respective front trim panel design themes into the front door panels. The overall instrument panel shape and design contribute to a more spacious interior feeling than seen in some competitors, which tend to accentuate the center section to create a closed-in feeling. The roomy feeling is no illusion, however, as the Lancer provides 94.8 cu. ft. of passenger space (93.3 with the optional sunroof).
Precision and Function
Functional, precision details convey the high-tech, high-quality feel that the target buyers seek in many products they buy, from portable MP3 players to vehicles. Two examples of how this principal was applied to the Lancer interior are seen in the flush-mounted HVAC registers and the way the audio system is smoothly integrated into the curved instrument panel.
A number of instrument panel details contributes to a feeling of overall higher quality and refinement, including narrower panel gaps, a seamless passenger front air bag panel and a painted upper surface to reduce reflections. Precision-designed detailing on all controls lends a "high-touch," high-tech feel. The short-stroke switches also impart a feeling of quality and solidity, and audio switches are finished in piano black for an upscale appearance. Metallic-like trim highlights the shifter bezel, and also the steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls in the ES and GTS models.
Classic Styling and High Tech in the Gauge Panel
The Lancer driver faces a sporty, dual-hood gauge panel inspired by classic European sports cars. Individual, clock-like gauges feature mechanical details also evocative of high-performance sports cars. Between the large speedometer and tachometer, every Lancer model features a standard Multi Information Display with a large LCD screen using two-tone yellow and red characters.
The Multi Information Display provides a 16-segment coolant temperature readout with warning, the main odometer, trip A and trip B odometers, plus a full-function driving computer. Displays include cruising distance with remaining fuel, average vehicle speed, average fuel economy and instantaneous fuel economy. A service reminder alerts the driver to periodic maintenance. For added convenience, the driver can select from six display languages, and display color is matched to warning level. Odometer and trip meter information is displayed even when the ignition switch is in the ACC or OFF position.
Materials and Color
Each Lancer trim grade - DE, ES and GTS - is also distinguished by its own seating and trim material. The Lancer DE uses a comfortable and refined sleek knit fabric. The ES premium seating fabric uses a combination of inserts with shiny thread accents in a structural pattern to provide a feeling of depth and refinement. The ES also offers a choice between a black interior or a two-tone beige and black, with beige the main color for seating, lower instrument panel and door panels and black used for the upper instrument panel and steering wheel.
The Lancer GTS seating is upholstered with a suede-like knit featuring an embossed geometric pattern. The upscale, sporty feel is further accentuated in the GTS with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and chrome interior door handles.
Sporty, Comfortable Seating
The Lancer's front seats feature moderate bolstering in the DE and ES models, with the GTS exclusively getting more deeply bolstered sport seats. The DE features a 4-way adjustable driver's seat, with the ES and GTS adding height adjustment. The new a manual pump-type height adjuster is easier to operate than the previous knob-type adjuster. The adjuster raises the whole seat cushion, not just the front or back, and the height adjustment range has been increased from 1.2 in. to 1.8 in.
For passenger comfort, all Lancer models use a high-back design rear seat with height-adjustable headrests. The ES and GTS models add the utility of a 60:40 split rear seatback with a fold-down armrest that integrates cup-holders.
Versatile Interior Storage
The variety and versatility of storage spaces throughout the 2008 Lancer interior reflects an understanding of how the target buyers use the cars in everyday driving. From accommodating large lattes or soft drinks to ensuring adequate space for a wide music selection, the Lancer's interior is designed to serve the owner.
The large glove box is illuminated and features dual supports and a damper to ensure smooth, quiet opening. All models feature a standard center console. The forward portion provides an illuminated open storage tray. The console in all models provides two cup-holders that can each hold a 20-oz. bottle, with enough space to the right of the cup-holders to store a few CD cases upright.
The console in the ES and GTS models adds a rear storage box with armrest. Lifting the armrest reveals a tray to hold a cell phone or other small items, and the box contains a second 12-volt power outlet with a slot in the tray and armrest providing a pass-through for a power cable. The box will hold six CD or DVD cases. Even the underside of the armrest has been put to use, with a pocket tissue packet holder. Finally, the front door panels also integrate bottle holders.
What the passengers can't see in the new-generation Lancer helps reduce what they hear. Improved rigidity of suspension installation points and the floor panel and optimal placement of anti-vibration damping material, as well as sound insulation, ensure better suppression of noise than competitors' models.
Renowned Mitsubishi Value in All Grades
All Lancer models, while offering excellent performance, safety and refinement, also still deliver the brand's renowned value. Extensive standard safety equipment in all Lancer models includes seven air bags, with advanced dual-stage front air bags, front seat-mounted side air bags, side-impact head protection curtain air bags and a segment-first driver's knee air bag.
A tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights are also standard on all 2008 Lancer models. (Safety technology is described in more depth in the "Safe, Sensible Choice" release in this press kit.) Starting with the Lancer DE, standard equipment includes 16-in. wheels with full sporty wheel covers and 205/60 R16 tires. Standard conveniences include an anti-theft engine immobilizer, power windows and mirrors and the previously described Multi-Information Monitor.
The power windows in all models feature retained power (30 seconds) after the ignition is switched off. The manual climate controls are now electronic for easier use and a higher-quality feel. With eight fan speeds, the system gives the customer finer control than other manual systems generally offer. A standard clean air filter protects the interior of the HVAC unit from foreign items, (dry leaves, etc.), removes dust and pollen, and improves air quality in the cabin.
The standard 140-watt AM/FM/CD audio system features digital signal processing and can play MP3-encoded CDs, and the Lancer DE is pre-wired for dealer-installed SIRIUS(R) Satellite Radio. The DE model's single available option package enhances value with anti-lock brakes (ABS), air conditioning, power door locks and a driver's side auto-up window function.
Lancer ES Notches Up Sporty Handling, Comfort and Value
Stepping up to the Lancer ES brings a raft of upgrades, making this model exceptionally competitive in the segment. Enhancing driving dynamics and safety, the ES gains standard ABS, and the rear suspension adds a stabilizer bar for even more responsive handling.
The ES builds on the DE model's content, adding upgraded upholstery and interior trim, a more versatile center console with storage box, standard air conditioning with cabin air filter, power door locks, keyless remote entry, cruise control, a 60:40 split rear seatback, map lights, driver's seat height adjuster, steering wheel audio controls, rear seat heater ducts and floor mats.
GTS Combines Sport with Comfort
The Lancer GTS takes the phrase "sport tuned" seriously, from its driving dynamics to its exclusive interior appointments. Inside, the front sport seats are exclusive to this model, which also features unique upgraded upholstery and interior trim, including a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.
With the optional CVT, the GTS's steering wheel gains magnesium paddle shifters to control this advanced transmission's 6-step Sportronic(R) manual mode. Comfort and convenience take a step up, too, with an automatic climate control system, Bluetooth cell phone interface system with voice recognition, an upgrade to six speakers for the standard audio system, and dual visor vanity mirrors.
Simplified Option Packages for Maximum Value
The Lancer DE offers the previously described upgrade package. The ES offers the Sun and Sound Package, which combines a power glass sunroof with sunshade and the Rockford-Fosgate(R) 650-watt (max.) Premium Sound System, plus a 6-disc in-dash CD changer with MP3 capability and SIRIUS Satellite Radio with a six-month pre-paid service subscription.
The GTS model also offers the Sun and Sound Package, and it becomes the technology leader of the line with the optional Navigation and Technology Package. This package includes a 30-gigabyte hard disk drive (HDD) navigation system with 7.5-inch touch screen and music server function, the Mitsubishi Multi-Communication System, and the FAST Key(TM) entry system. (All technology features are detailed in the "User Technology" press release in this press kit.)
DYNAMICS
The all-new 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer was engineered from bumper to bumper to provide a driven-to-thrill experience behind the wheel. Driving enthusiasts will feel the difference through every curve, especially in the sport-tuned Lancer GTS model. Customers who purchase a Lancer DE or ES model will find themselves enjoying driving more than before.
The source for Lancer's engaging, fun-driving character is a new global performance-engineered platform that has been optimized for a maximum-performance variant (which will arrive at a later date). This platform was introduced first for the 2007 Outlander SUV, a vehicle that provides uncommonly energetic driving responses for its segment.
The 2008 Lancer GTS - with the standard 5-speed manual transmission or the optional Sportronic CVT - combines a sport-tuned suspension with 18-inch wheels 215/45 R18 tires and large 4-wheel disc brakes to make this model an aggressive twisty-road tamer. Lancer models - and especially the sport-tuned GTS - will offer an international driving character more commonly found in expensive European sport sedans.
The 2008 Lancer DE and ES models, with their standard 16-inch wheels (alloy on ES) and 205/60 R16 tires, provide solid and stable driving performance that can help make even an ordinary commute to work more enjoyable. The ES adds standard anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), as well as a rear stabilizer bar for sharper handling.
Wider, Road Hugging Stance
The 2008 Lancer projects a tauter, stronger stance through its design, and the effect is more than skin-deep. The new Lancer is built on a longer wheelbase and wider track - but with a slightly shorter overall length. A 2.3-inch increase in both the front and rear track dimensions - now 60.2 in. - sets the stage for the new Lancer's solid, stable handling capability. Wheelbase was lengthened to 103.7 in. from 102.3 in, and overall width is increased from 66.7 in to 69.4 in. Overall length, however, has been reduced by 0.6-in., giving the new Lancer a more road-hugging stance that is especially evident with the GTS model's standard 18-in. wheels and 215/45 R18 tires.
Safety-Optimized RISE Body Structure
The reassuringly solid feeling one gets driving the new Lancer is rooted in a body structure engineered with greater inherent strength than its predecessor. That is one reason the new platform can be used for a variety of model types, including the new-generation Outlander SUV. Of course, the new structure has also been optimized for a higher level of crashworthiness, as well.
The 2008 Lancer is built around Mitsubishi's next-generation Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) unibody design. The highly rigid structure makes extensive use of high-tension steel, a material that was not used in the previous-generation Lancer. A stiff body structure can allow sport suspension tuning without compromising a compliant ride, and this platform allows for further handling development even beyond the new Lancer GTS model.
The Lancer's structural and suspension development reflects Mitsubishi's renowned motorsports expertise. In particular, lessons learned from reinforcing the structure of the previous-generation Lancer Evolution model have been integrated into the new-generation Lancer.
Compared to the previous-generation Lancer, torsional rigidity has been increased by 56 percent, and bending rigidity is up by 50 percent. These increases in both torsional and bending rigidity exceed body stiffness measurements of even the Lancer Evolution IX.
Straight front side members with an octagonal cross-section and a three-leg support structure, as well as increased application high-strength steel, are designed to help Lancer meet the highest crash test standards. The side pillars, roof joints and cross-car structure - combined with the standard front seat-mounted side air bags, driver knee air bag and standard front and rear curtain side air bags - give the new Lancer a higher degree of collision protection.
Rigidity Throughout
The lower body structure, where the suspension attaches to the car, also demonstrates the benefits of higher rigidity than before. Here, one can appreciate the holistic approach engineers used to achieve this goal. As one example, the Lancer's new-generation 2.0-liter DOHC MIVEC 4-cylinder engine uses a rear-mounted exhaust manifold, as opposed to the front-mounted exhaust manifold on the previous-generation Lancer engine.
That change allowed use of a flat front suspension crossmember, where the previous model required a saddle-shaped crossmember to provide clearance for the exhaust pipe. A flat front crossmember can directly receive lateral loads from the front lower arm.
Strut tower, side and lower braces enhance lateral rigidity for precise steering response, and lower control arm attachment points and steering knuckles have been strengthened. The combination of these enhancements, along with retuned lower control arm bushings, contribute to quicker steering response. As a result of these reinforcement measures, rigidity of the tire ground contact area was improved by a significant 18 percent versus the previous Lancer, an improvement that enhances nimble handling, driving stability and ride comfort.
Redesigned Front Suspension
The MacPherson strut front suspension is similar in layout to the previous Lancer's, but all-new, with a sharpened focus on enhancing rigidity while reducing weight and lowering the roll center. Slightly longer suspension travel (10 mm) enhances road holding even on rough roads, and road shock from driving over uneven surfaces has also been reduced.
The Lancer DE and ES models use a 20-mm (0.79-in.) front stabilizer bar, and the GTS model employs a 21-mm (0.83-in.) front stabilizer bar. The GTS also gets exclusive sport-tuning of the spring rates and shock damping force. Fitting a stabilizer strut helps ensure optimal roll rigidity and improved steering stability.
Multi-link Rear Suspension
The Lancer's sophisticated new trailing-arm type multi-link rear suspension is a major factor in providing ride and handling characteristics that might be expected from a more expensive vehicle. The rack-type crossmember has been lightened, yet its rigidity increased to enhance handling response.
Compared with the current Lancer, the toe control arm has been lowered and camber rigidity increased to deliver better steering stability. Raising the trailing arm bushing has improved suspension operation when traversing rough surfaces and enhanced ride comfort. The Lancer ES features an 18-mm (0.71-in.) rear stabilizer bar, and the GTS sport-tuned suspension gets a 20-mm (0.79-in.) rear bar, changes in spring rate and shock damping forces, and pillow-ball bushing for both upper and toe control arms. Contributing to handling stability in the all-new Lancer are ball joint-type stabilizer links and a new hub unit bearing that provides higher camber and toe rigidity.
More Precise Steering
The 2008 Lancer owes its crisp, fluid steering response to the integration of the highly rigid body structure, the newly designed suspension, and of course the new rack and pinion steering system itself. The new steering rack has a slightly larger diameter than the previous Lancer's.
The optimized steering column layout features joint friction-reduction parts that improve steering feel (reduced torque fluctuation). Support stiffness at the steering wheel end of the steering column has been increased by 20 percent compared to the previous model, reducing steering wheel vibration. Dampers used on the intermediate shaft help reduce shimmy.
Confident Braking Performance
The all-new 2008 Lancer GTS not only tames curves, but does so with the confident stopping power of the same brakes as the larger, heavier Outlander SUV -- 11.6-in. (294 mm) vented discs in front and 11.9-in. (302 mm) solid discs in rear. The Lancer DE and ES models employ 10.9-in. (276 mm) vented front disc brakes. The ES has 10.3-in. (262 mm) solid disc rear brakes. The DE has highly efficient drum-type rear brakes.
The front disc brakes utilize powerful dual-piston calipers, with the GTS featuring single-piston calipers for its rear discs. Front rotors on all models measure 1.0 in. thick, and the rear rotors on GTS are 0.4 in. thick. Additionally, higher friction coefficient pads improve performance. The single 10-in. brake vacuum booster, with a long-stroke master cylinder, improves boost power and brake feel. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard on GTS and ES and available for DE models. The system incorporates Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). A change in the surface treatments for both the calipers and rotors has eliminated hazardous materials.
TECHNOLOGY
The all-new, next-generation Mitsubishi Lancer for 2008 carries its driven-to-thrill engineering inside, with powerful audio and advanced user-technology options designed to exceed customers' expectations.
The sport-tuned Lancer GTS is also the technology leader of the line. The GTS comes standard with a Bluetooth(R) wireless technology cell phone interface system with voice recognition microphone for hands-free calling (available for the ES model). The GTS model is exclusively available with the optional Navigation and Technology Package. This package combines a hard drive navigation system with music server function, the Mitsubishi Multi-Communication System and the FAST Key (Freehand Advanced Security Transmitter) entry system. FAST Key allows passive vehicle unlocking and engine start/stop simply by carrying the remote control.
All Lancer models for 2008 come pre-wired for SIRIUS(R) Satellite Radio capability. This in-demand feature is also included in the optional Sun and Sound Package available for the ES and GTS models, where it is combined with a power glass sunroof and a 650-watt (max.) Rockford-Fosgate(R) Premium Audio system, which is the most powerful factory-installed audio system in the segment.
"Today's customers in the premium compact segment expect the latest in digital on-board communication and entertainment technology, and in that regard, a Lancer GTS offers 'class-up' options that easily meet that demand," said Bryan Arnett, product strategy manager, Mitsubishi Motors North America. "And just as important, these high-technology features are easy to use and all are covered by the Mitsubishi bumper-to-bumper five years/60,000 mile limited warranty."
FAST-Key Entry
All 2008 Lancer models come standard with an anti-theft engine immobilizer. The ES and GTS models also feature a keyless remote entry system. The sport-tuned GTS model is exclusively available with the FAST-Key system. Part of the optional Navigation and Technology Package, FAST Key allows the driver to unlock the vehicle simply by having the remote in a pocket or purse and grasping the handle on either of the front doors or pressing a button in the trunk.
The FAST-Key system provides both convenience and security, since the driver does not need to search for a key or remote control while carrying packages, or when in a poorly lit area, for example. The system operates when the driver (carrying the remote unit) is within 27 inches of the front doors or the trunk. While walking into that range, the system verifies the user i.d. Bioelectrical sensors are built into the door handles, and when the person carrying the remote grasps one of the handles, the door unlocks: grasping the driver's door handled unlocks only that door; grasping the front passenger door handle will unlock all four doors. (The customer can set system preferences so that grasping the driver's door handle will unlock all vehicle doors.)
With FAST Key, instead of inserting and turning a key to start the engine, the driver simply presses the ignition knob on the steering column to release the lock, and then twists it to start the engine. Turning the knob rearward turns off the engine. The FAST Key system comes with two remote units, and up to four can be registered and programmed for the system. The remote houses an emergency key that can unlock and start the vehicle if the unit's battery runs down.
Satellite Navigation System - Plus
A satellite navigation system is available for the 2008 Lancer GTS model and also includes AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA music file playback, DVD video capability (when the car is not moving) and SIRIUS(R) Satellite Radio capability. Navigation maps and directions are displayed on a crisp touch-panel, seven-inch LCD screen.
The navigation system stores map data for the contiguous United States and Canada on a 30-gigabyte hard drive. Using a hard drive for map storage - rather than DVDs, as most other navigation systems do - gives the Lancer's navigation system ultra-fast search and access to the map data.
For many customers, a key benefit to this hard drive-based navigation system is a music server function that reserves about 6 gigabytes of its capacity for digital music file storage and playback through the audio system. The navigation system's main operating controls are hard switches, with the touch screen accessing the search and destination-entry functions, among others.
The 2008 Lancer GTS's navigation system also integrates the Mitsubishi Multi-Communication System, an extensive information display, including an onboard computer. Offering much of the functionality of similar systems in seen in luxury vehicles, the Lancer's is easier and more intuitive to use.
The driving computer provides displays for outside temperature, average fuel economy, current fuel economy, distance to empty and driving time. Another display option brings up a screen with outside temperature and barometer, along with an altimeter, and another displays a vehicle maintenance reminder (oil, brakes, interior air filter) and calendar. Controls for the audio, including the SIRIUS(R) Satellite Radio and available 650-watt (max) Rockford-Fosgate Premium Audio, can be accessed through the navigation screen.
Adding another high-tech touch unexpected in the segment, the navigation system includes an interface that allows owners to customize many of the vehicle's interior electronic system functions, such as central locking and lighting choices.
Lancer Entertainment Options
The 2008 Lancer comes equipped to provide high-quality sound, with a standard total 140-watt AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with 4 speakers and digital signal processor. The system automatically compensates volume and sound equalization in response to vehicle speed. The Lancer GTS model upgrades to a 6-speaker system.
The optional Sun and Sound package available for the 2008 Lancer ES and GTS includes a power glass sunroof and the most powerful audio system in its segment: the Rockford-Fosgate Premium Audio System with PUNCH(R) control. Rockford-Fosgate is one of the most respected brands for mobile audio speakers. The Rockford-Fosgate system has been custom-tuned for the Lancer's interior acoustics. For example, the Lancer ES and GTS customer benefits from the collaborative work done by Mitsubishi engineers and Rockford-Fosgate engineers to tune the doors to function as speaker cabinets, extending response, increasing clarity and reducing coloration.
Similar to the option offered for the new-generation 2007 Outlander SUV, this audiophile-quality system has been designed to reproduce all types of music with stunning clarity and power. It includes a 6-CD in-dash head unit with MP3 playback capability. In addition, an audio input jack enables connection of an iPod(R) or other media player. The Sun and Sound option package also includes SIRIUS(R) Satellite Radio with a six-month pre-paid subscription.
Lancer's Rockford-Fosgate system uses an 8-channel amplifier to produce up to 650 watts maximum output, playing through nine speakers in seven positions: 1.4-in. soft-dome tweeters mounted in the door mirror delta provide an accurate soundstage; front door-mounted 6.5-in. midbass drivers; rear door-mounted 6.5-in. coaxial two-way speakers using a bridge-mounted tweeter, and a 10-in. subwoofer in its own sealed enclosure located in the left rear of the trunk. The subwoofer provides extremely high-power bass performance, but that doesn't make the Lancer's Rockford-Fosgate system just a "boombox on wheels." The system will please the ears of any discerning music listener, because it is designed to provide crystal clear, low-distortion fidelity to make any type of music come alive.
Digital signal processing allows the listener to customize the Rockford-Fosgate system's performance for five types of music - "normal," "pop," "rock," "hip-hop" and "country" - and four soundfields - "normal," "stage," "live" and "hall." In addition, a "time alignment" feature allows Mitsubishi sound engineers to virtually control of speaker position, making it possible to adjust the ideal listening point to suit the driver. The Rockford-Fosgate system automatically compensates volume for vehicle speed as well as equalization for road and wind noise.
Steering Wheel Controls
Steering wheel-mounted controls for the cruise control system and audio controls are standard for Lancer ES and GTS models. The steering wheel audio controls can operate whichever factory audio system the customer chooses, including the optional Rockford-Fosgate Premium Audio system and the SIRIUS(R) Satellite Radio when so equipped. The basic controls include volume, station seek for the radio (including SIRIUS Satellite), category selection (SIRIUS Satellite) and track selection and fast-forward/fast-reverse for the CD player (including MP3 CDs). When the Lancer is equipped with the optional navigation system, the steering wheel buttons also provide control for the digital music server.
Hands-Free Calling
A hands-free Bluetooth(TM) cellular phone interface system (standard on GTS and available for ES) with voice recognition allows hands-free calling from compatible phones, which can help to reduce driver distraction. When using a compatible Bluetooth-enabled phone, the driver can use the steering wheel controls to initiate calls, answer incoming calls and hang up.
With voice recognition, the user can speak a phone number to dial it, or speak the name of a person in the stored phone book. Voice recognition understands commands in English, American Spanish or Canadian French. The microphone is located near the map light. (The ES model requires dealer installation of microphone and Bluetooth cellular interface module). The audio system display (or navigation screen, if equipped) provides a status display, including Bluetooth connection, roaming, phone battery level and signal strength, plus the number being dialed or the number for the incoming call.
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