Australia’s favourite Mitsubishi is destined for more popularity with the 2008 Sydney motor show launch of a new Lancer hatchback.
The new Lancer Sportback joins the sedan variant that debuted the latest-generation Lancer locally in September 2007, and is the first hatchback variant of Mitsubishi’s small car since 1995.
Click Here For More Cars Pictures
The hatchback offers more practicality than the sedan, including 288 litres of cargo space and a height-adjustable cargo floor that can increase depth by 90mm. The Sportback’s 60/40 split rear seats also include an auto folding system operated via a lever near the tailgate.
Mitsubishi is offering the Sportback in the same trim levels as the sedan, with base-model ES, VR, VRX and Ralliart versions.
The ES and VR are powered by a 113kW/198Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder and start at $20,990 and $25,590 respectively with a five-speed manual. A CVT transmission is optional.
Mitsubishi Australia boss Rob McEniry says the new Sportback variant will account for half of Lancer sales and will help the company’s small car close the sales gap to the Toyota Corolla and Mazda3.
| 
|