New Content Highlights 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer

Okay, first things first: It somehow got out last month that the pricing of the 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer lineup would be unchanged from the 2014 model year, with MSRPs that start at $17,195. Such turns out not to be the case, however, and Mitsu is now confirming a $200 price jump for the roster, to bring the Lancer entry point to $17,395. Which does include new heated side-view mirrors, with integrated turn signals, as standard content on all models.

There are some strong value plays higher up in the range, too. For example, the mid-range 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer SE—already highlighted by Mitsu's All Wheel Control all-wheel-drive system—will be priced at $20,995, and that represents a $300 increase over the 2014 model. But the Lancer SE also adds standard content like:

• The automaker's "FUSE Hands-Free Link System" for Bluetooth functionality
• Six-speaker audio with USB port
• Distinctive exterior design cues, like a body-color front sport bumper, fog lights and 16-inch two-tone alloy wheels
• Premium in-cabin instrumentation, courtesy of high-contrast gauges and a color multi-information display

Similarly, the turbocharged 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart edition sees an MSRP that jumps by $1,100, but it amps up the standard-content list with: 

• A premium sound system by Rockford-Fosgate, featuring nine speakers and 710 watts of power
• High-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps, complemented by daytime running lamps
• 18-inch alloy wheels with an aggressive dark finish
• White contrast stitching for the seat and door trims
• Rain-sensing wipers
• An auto-dimming rearview mirror
• Automatic on/off headlights

As a quick powertrain review, the 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer roster offers three engines and three transmission choices, starting with a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder unit that makes 148 hp/145 lb.-ft. of torque and can be paired with either a five-speed manual or a CVT in the ES model. That powerplant can reach up to 26 mpg city/34 mpg highway/29 mpg combined with the latter. Lancer SE and GT models rely on a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine that ups the ante to 168 hp and 167 lb.-ft. of torque, with SE drivers managing power with a CVT and seeing an EPA line of 23/30/26 and GT owners getting the DIY gearbox and fuel-economy grades of 22/31/26.

The 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart caps things off with a 237-hp, 2.0-liter, four-cylinder turbo that can produce 237 horses and 253 lb.-ft. of torque, while achieving EPA marks of 18/25/20 from a six-speed "Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission."