The Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart is one of those cars that sits right in the sweet spot between practicality and thrill. It was designed for people who wanted a sporty driving experience without going all the way to the hardcore Lancer Evolution. Over the years, it has gained a loyal following, not just for its performance but also for its unique place in Mitsubishi’s history. In this article, we’ll dive deep into everything about the Lancer Ralliart—from its origins and design to its specs, reliability, and even its collectability.
History and Background
Origins of the Ralliart Brand
Ralliart was born as Mitsubishi’s motorsport and performance division, heavily influenced by rally racing. This branch gave the company its racing DNA and helped shape cars that appealed to enthusiasts worldwide. The Ralliart badge became synonymous with aggressive styling, better handling, and a sportier edge compared to standard Mitsubishi models.
Launch of the Lancer Ralliart (2008–2014)
The Lancer Ralliart was officially introduced in 2008 and remained in production until 2014. It was built to bridge the gap between the everyday Lancer and the fire-breathing Lancer Evolution. While the Evo was often seen as a rival to the Subaru WRX STI, the Ralliart leaned more toward being a more affordable performance option that still offered turbocharged excitement.
Ralliart Brand Revival in 2021
After a break, Mitsubishi brought back the Ralliart name in 2021. Instead of focusing on hardcore performance sedans, the brand was used to enhance SUVs and trucks like the Outlander and Triton. These modern Ralliart editions focus more on styling and brand identity, reflecting Mitsubishi’s heritage rather than recreating the old formula.
Engine and Performance
Turbocharged 2.0L 4B11 Engine
At the heart of the Lancer Ralliart is the 2.0-liter turbocharged 4B11 engine. It shares its roots with the Lancer Evolution but comes slightly detuned to make it more manageable for daily use. While it didn’t produce as much horsepower as the Evo, it still delivered more than enough punch compared to the base Lancer, making it a thrilling yet practical choice.
Transmission – Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST)
One of the standout features of the Ralliart is its six-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission. Unlike traditional automatics, this dual-clutch system offered quick gear changes and a sporty feel. Drivers appreciated the responsiveness, especially when pushing the car through winding roads or highway merges.
All-Wheel Drive System
The Ralliart came with an all-wheel-drive system that offered selectable modes for tarmac, gravel, and snow. While not as advanced as the Evolution’s Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC), it still provided plenty of grip and stability. This feature made it a versatile car that could handle various road conditions confidently.
Design and Styling
Exterior Styling
The Lancer Ralliart looked the part of a performance sedan. With a more aggressive front bumper, hood vents, and sporty body lines, it stood out from the standard Lancer. It wasn’t as wide-bodied or extreme as the Evo, but it carried just enough flair to catch attention without being over-the-top.
Interior Features
Inside, the Ralliart combined comfort with a sporty feel. Supportive seats, unique trim pieces, and performance-focused gauges reminded drivers they were in something special. While it didn’t have the stripped-down, track-ready feel of the Evo, it offered a nice balance between everyday usability and sporty character.
Driving Experience
Everyday Usability
What made the Lancer Ralliart appealing to many buyers was how usable it was. You could take it to work every day, use it for long drives, and still have a blast on a twisty road over the weekend. It was like having a car that wore a suit during the week but swapped into sneakers for fun on the weekend.
Handling and Performance on Road
On the road, the Ralliart delivered sharp handling and strong acceleration. While it couldn’t quite match the razor-sharp dynamics of the Evo, it was still leagues ahead of most regular sedans. Enthusiasts often compared it to rivals like the Subaru WRX, Mazdaspeed 3, and even the Volkswagen GTI, finding it competitive and fun.
Comparison with Other Models
Lancer Ralliart vs Lancer Evolution
The most common comparison is between the Ralliart and the Evolution. The Evo had more power, better handling, and a more advanced drivetrain. However, it also came with a higher price tag and stiffer ride quality. The Ralliart offered a middle ground—less intimidating but still exciting.
Lancer Ralliart vs Standard Lancer
Compared to the standard Lancer, the Ralliart was on a completely different level. More power, better handling, and sportier looks made it worth the extra cost for those who wanted more than just basic transportation.
Lancer Ralliart vs Competitors
When placed against cars like the Subaru WRX, Mazdaspeed 3, or VW GTI, the Ralliart held its own. It wasn’t always the fastest or the most refined, but it delivered a unique balance of performance, comfort, and Mitsubishi’s rally-inspired personality.
Specifications and Performance Stats
The Lancer Ralliart offered around 237 horsepower and could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in about 5.5 to 6 seconds. Top speed was roughly 140–150 mph, depending on conditions. Fuel economy wasn’t its strongest suit, but for a performance car, it offered reasonable efficiency. These numbers made it a competitive option for its class at the time.
Reliability and Ownership Experience
Common Issues and Maintenance
Like many performance-oriented vehicles, the Lancer Ralliart had its quirks. The TC-SST transmission required proper maintenance, and turbocharged engines always benefit from timely servicing. Some owners noted issues with overheating or drivetrain components if the car was pushed too hard without care.
Aftermarket and Modding Potential
For enthusiasts, the Ralliart offered a solid platform for modifications. From exhaust upgrades to ECU tuning, owners could unlock more performance and customize their cars. While it didn’t have as vast an aftermarket scene as the Evo, it still provided enough options for personalization.
Market and Availability
Used Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart Prices
Today, the Ralliart can often be found on the used market at reasonable prices compared to the Evolution. Depending on condition, mileage, and modifications, prices vary widely. Enthusiasts often see it as a budget-friendly entry into the world of turbocharged, all-wheel-drive fun.
Collectability and Future Value
While not as iconic as the Evo, the Ralliart is starting to gain recognition among enthusiasts. As performance sedans become rarer, clean examples of the Ralliart could become sought-after in the coming years, especially given its unique position in Mitsubishi’s history.
Conclusion
The Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart represents a special chapter in the brand’s story. It gave buyers a taste of rally-inspired performance without the steep cost of an Evolution. With its turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive, and sporty design, it carved out a niche that still resonates with car fans today. For those who want a blend of practicality and fun, the Ralliart remains a standout choice in the world of performance sedans.
FAQs
1. Is the Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart a good car?
Yes, it’s a great option for those who want a balance of performance and practicality. It’s not as extreme as the Evo but far sportier than a standard Lancer.
2. What engine does the Lancer Ralliart have?
It comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4B11 engine, which is a detuned version of the Evo’s powerplant.
3. Is the Lancer Ralliart all-wheel drive?
Yes, it features an advanced all-wheel-drive system with selectable modes for different road conditions.
4. How fast is the Lancer Ralliart?
The car can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 5.5 to 6 seconds, with a top speed around 140–150 mph.
5. Is the Lancer Ralliart reliable?
With proper maintenance, the Ralliart can be reliable. However, like all performance cars, it requires careful servicing, especially for the turbo engine and TC-SST transmission.
