2009 GTS changes!
Dec 15, 2007, 10:21 PM
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2009 GTS changes!
First Drive: 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS
More motor for Mitsu's new star
By Edward Loh
Photography by the Manufacturer
Last year Mitsubishi recorded its best numbers in four years, with global retail sales up 15 percent. Much of this success can be attributed to the launch of its two new C-segment stars, the Outlander SUV and Lancer sedan.
Both of these models receive additional pop in the form of a torquey new 2.4-liter engine. For the Outlander, this adds a lower entry point to what was a V-6-only lineup, while Lancer benefits by having a "big block" in the topstep GTS trim.
The new 4B12 engine is a bored and stroked variant of the all-aluminum, 2.0-liter engine that inaugurated the Lancer's launch. Displacement is up 362 cc via an 11mm increase in piston stroke (to 91) and a 2mm increase in cylinder bore diameter (to 88). Like the smaller engine, the 2.4-liter version features 16-valves and Mitsubishi's MIVEC variable valve timing system on both intake and exhaust camshafts. Balance shafts have been added to increase smoothness.
For the Lancer GTS, this new engine means a bump of 16 horsepower and 21 lb-ft of torque (over last year's 45-state version) to 168 horsepower and 167 lb-ft. These increases are even greater in comparison with the PZEV-rated 2.0 liter models, which are rated at 143 for both horsepower and torque.
On the road, the extra torque is readily apparent, particularly when experienced through the optional the 6-step, paddle-shifted Sportronic CVT. At wide-open throttle, the engine throbs without pause, sending the car forward in a seemingly unyielding accelerative rush. Sure, torque steer still lurks around every corner, but in a straight line, it's an odd, yet exhilarating feeling.
Despite the larger engine, there is no huge difference at the pump; city/highway fuel economy remain a respectable 21/28 for the five-speed manual and 21/27 for the CVT.
In addition to the supersized engine, the 2009 Lancer GTS gains standard high contrast meters and options including traction control, Xenon headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, and the FAST Key (Freehand Advanced Security Transmitter) entry system that lets the driver unlock and open the door with the key in pocket or purse.
The 2009 Lancer GTS is on sale in early 2008 at a cost of around $18,000.
More motor for Mitsu's new star
By Edward Loh
Photography by the Manufacturer
Last year Mitsubishi recorded its best numbers in four years, with global retail sales up 15 percent. Much of this success can be attributed to the launch of its two new C-segment stars, the Outlander SUV and Lancer sedan.
Both of these models receive additional pop in the form of a torquey new 2.4-liter engine. For the Outlander, this adds a lower entry point to what was a V-6-only lineup, while Lancer benefits by having a "big block" in the topstep GTS trim.
The new 4B12 engine is a bored and stroked variant of the all-aluminum, 2.0-liter engine that inaugurated the Lancer's launch. Displacement is up 362 cc via an 11mm increase in piston stroke (to 91) and a 2mm increase in cylinder bore diameter (to 88). Like the smaller engine, the 2.4-liter version features 16-valves and Mitsubishi's MIVEC variable valve timing system on both intake and exhaust camshafts. Balance shafts have been added to increase smoothness.
For the Lancer GTS, this new engine means a bump of 16 horsepower and 21 lb-ft of torque (over last year's 45-state version) to 168 horsepower and 167 lb-ft. These increases are even greater in comparison with the PZEV-rated 2.0 liter models, which are rated at 143 for both horsepower and torque.
On the road, the extra torque is readily apparent, particularly when experienced through the optional the 6-step, paddle-shifted Sportronic CVT. At wide-open throttle, the engine throbs without pause, sending the car forward in a seemingly unyielding accelerative rush. Sure, torque steer still lurks around every corner, but in a straight line, it's an odd, yet exhilarating feeling.
Despite the larger engine, there is no huge difference at the pump; city/highway fuel economy remain a respectable 21/28 for the five-speed manual and 21/27 for the CVT.
In addition to the supersized engine, the 2009 Lancer GTS gains standard high contrast meters and options including traction control, Xenon headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, and the FAST Key (Freehand Advanced Security Transmitter) entry system that lets the driver unlock and open the door with the key in pocket or purse.
The 2009 Lancer GTS is on sale in early 2008 at a cost of around $18,000.
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Dec 16, 2007, 10:16 AM
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Ahhhh, good thing I wasn't one of the first guinea pigs and waited for the 2009 Lancer release. Mitsubishi could have included all those options in 2008 model but then again they would have nothing new for 2009. I think it's good strategy and most car makers just add on options year by year to make cars appear a bit fresh. Too bad for early adopters but oh well, I am not one of them. I'll pick one of these up for my wife for sure 
Also, if anyone is interested in a Lancer sportsback, I'll suggest to wait for 2009 Geneva Auto Show, there is a great possibility that sportsback will be available in US by late summer/ealy fall.
Also, if anyone is interested in a Lancer sportsback, I'll suggest to wait for 2009 Geneva Auto Show, there is a great possibility that sportsback will be available in US by late summer/ealy fall.
Dec 16, 2007, 11:30 AM
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Well the only thing you cannot get is the TCS, but big deal...When will you ever need TCS on a 168hp car? Probably only if you're driving on ice a lot. Rain-sensing wipers? I dont think I'm 90 and cant sense myself when to flick a switch on/off.
The +16hp can be had with a little bit of work.
And I'm sure those HID projector's will be retrofitted to 2008's in no time.
The +16hp can be had with a little bit of work.
And I'm sure those HID projector's will be retrofitted to 2008's in no time.
Dec 16, 2007, 11:34 AM
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$18k? I paid way more than that for my 08 GTS. Something is fishy here. I wonder if it's a gutted GTS with no options... like a DE with the 4B12 or something.
Also, I like the typo about the bore/stroke (4B11 is 86x86, so the math is wrong somewhere). I hate it when they get the details wrong because then I have no clue what to believe...
All I can say is that the 2008 I have now is still way better than the car I drove before it. And that is what matters most.
And to agree with Karan, my thoughts below:
standard high contrast meters - don't care, I like the 08 meters
traction control - don't need it, never lose traction except on ice
Xenon headlamps - I could just get HIDs instead
rain-sensing wipers - my arms work
FAST Key (Freehand Advanced Security Transmitter) - was availabe on the 2008, didn't want it
Also, I like the typo about the bore/stroke (4B11 is 86x86, so the math is wrong somewhere). I hate it when they get the details wrong because then I have no clue what to believe...
All I can say is that the 2008 I have now is still way better than the car I drove before it. And that is what matters most.
And to agree with Karan, my thoughts below:
standard high contrast meters - don't care, I like the 08 meters
traction control - don't need it, never lose traction except on ice
Xenon headlamps - I could just get HIDs instead
rain-sensing wipers - my arms work
FAST Key (Freehand Advanced Security Transmitter) - was availabe on the 2008, didn't want it
Last edited by Blacksheepdj; Dec 16, 2007 at 11:37 AM.
