Mitsubishi Updates the Lancer for 2016

2016 Lancer GT (Credit: © Mitsubishi)

Well, the Evo is officially dead, but hey, at least we still have the regular Lancer sedan, right? With the 2016 year in full swing, Mitsubishi has officially unveiled the revamped Lancer, and toned everything way down.

In terms of its looks, the 2016 Lance carries over mostly unchanged on the outside, except up front. Up here, you’ll find a fully revised nose that no longer sports Mitsubishi’s signature grille. Instead, there is a more pronounced two-grille look (upper and lower) and no surround connecting them. The headlights are also new, as are the fog lights and their LED surrounds. With exception of the fog lights, the entire front end feel more timid than last year.

2016 Lancer GT (Credit: © Mitsubishi)

The 2016 Lancer will be available in four trim levels: ES, SE, SEL, and GT. The big changes come to the ES trim level, which gets several new features, including FUSE Hands-Free Link System, automatic climate control, fog lights, alloy wheels, and LED daytime running lights. Also new to the 2016 Lancer are updated seat fabrics, a new center console with a USB port, and two new colors (Diamond White Pearl and Alloy Silver).

The SE trim level chimes in with all-wheel control, heated front seats, a rearview camera, and a display radio with HD Radio. The SEL trim gains leather seats, rain-sensing wipers, auto headlights, an auto-dimming mirror, and more. For those looking for a sportier alternative, there is the range-topping GT that has a sport-tuned suspension, large disc brake, 18-inch wheels, a sunroof, and a rear spoiler.

You may notice that one trim level is now missing: the Ralliart. This 237-horsepower, turbocharged model, which was a middle point between the GT and the Evolution, is no longer a part of the lineup.

2016 Lancer GT (Credit: © Mitsubishi)

Mitsu failed to mention much about the drivetrain, except that the GT model will have an available five-speed manual transmission and a CVT8 transmission, while the ES model will have an available CVT8 and all-wheel control.

In terms of engines, chances are that the Lancer will continue with the same units as before. These include a standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 148 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque, and a 2.4-liter that injects 168 horsepower and 167 pound-feet of torque into the SE, SEL and GT models.

There is no mention of when the Lancer will hit dealers across the country, but Mitsu did announce that it’ll start from $17,595. Stay tuned for an official release date.