2011 Mitsubishi Lancer VRX Review

The Mitsubishi Lancer is an iconic car with an incredibly versatile range to suit a variety of needs. The Lancer VRX Sedan is a particular favourite of mine and faired very well when I got the opportunity to test it out.

The incredibly sporty and edgy exterior comes in 8 colours, including a Lightening Blue and Red, and boasts a rear spoiler, privacy glass, 18 inch alloy wheels and chrome exhaust tip. The VRX is the epitome of cool and trendy. When you sit inside the Lancer, the sporty feeling continues, especially with the alloy sports pedals. The leather bound and adjustable steering wheel with controls at your hands is comfortable and convenient. Climate control air conditioning combines ease and efficiency. All of the sporty bucket seats are covered in a sports cloth trim and are adjustable which makes for a pleasant ride for all. With a 60:40 split folding function, there is adequate room in the back seats for toddlers to tall teenagers. Storage is abundant with a roomy glovebox, center console, multiple bottle and cup holders and rear seat pockets throughout and a 400L boot space.

Audio is at a premium with a Rockford Fosgate system, 6 disk CD changer, FM/AM and MP3 compatibility and a massive 9 speakers including a subwoofer. The audio set up of this car is a massive draw feature which also includes AUX and USB input with iPod controls and Bluetooth as standard. For convenience, the Lancer VRX also boasts a multi-information display system and the Mitsubishi Multi Communication System with satellite navigation.

Powering this sporty Lancer VRX is a 2.4L engine with CVT and sports mode with paddle shifters. The VRX is also the only Lancer sedan to be equipped with the special sports suspension to ensure that it’s sporty looks translate into action. The VRX puts out 125kW of power @ 6,000rpm and 226Nm of tourqe @ 4,100rpm. This car is relatively fuel efficient at around 9L per 100km however, this does blow out when you put the pedal to the metal every now and then. With a 10m turning circle, the VRX is rather maneuverable for a beefy sedan.

At Mitsubishi, the safety of the driver and all passengers is paramount which is why the Lancer VRX has a 5 star ANCAP Safety rating, which is no surprise considering how jam-packed with safety features this sedan is. It has the usual airbags including curtain and driver knee, ABS, EBD, ASC and ATC. The VRX also has an emergency brake assist system, Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) body and side door impact beams. In regards to seat belts, they all have pretensioners, force limiters, 3 point Emergency Locking Retractors and on the rear row of seats, an Auto Locking Retractor. For security, an anti-theft encrypted engine immobiliser, central locking and steering lock as well as a bonus 5 year Diamond Advantage Roadside Assistance all come as standard.

Starting at $32,490 MLP for the automatic, the Lancer VRX is a little outside most provisional drivers price range, however, this car is something to aspire to own. The Lancer VRX has redefined the image that sporty cars are for guys only, with this car providing comfort and sleek looks to appeal to women as well.

P-Plate Positives:
1. The massive sound system is a definite bonus in this car and is an added attraction to most.
2. Sporty looks are no longer boxy as the Lancer VRX has ensured a sporty car has a sleek yet edgy design.
3. Safety is at a maximum and everything comes as standard.

P-Plate Negatives:
1. The price is a little over budget for most young drivers.
2. The rear spoiler is positioned so it inconveniently interrupts the drivers sight out the back window.

Rating: 4 out of 5