Mitsubishi had announced to discontinue its popular Lancer sedan last year but the car still remains extremely popular among the people of Taiwan and China. While western markets saw the Lancer discontinued in 2017, in the east the car was given a thorough revamp now labeled as the ‘Grand Lancer’.
Related: 2017 Mitsubishi Grand Lancer- This is it!
The new Mitsubishi Grand Lancer is said to be designed by the legendary Italian car design firm Pininfarina. The Grand Lancer now incorporates Mitsubishi’s new design philosophy called Dynamic Shield, plus all new sheet metal and improvements to the driving dynamics. The tail lights are now U-shaped LED with a sharper rear bumper and trunk deck treatment. From the A-pillar to the C-pillar everything is all new, even the creases over the side body panels are all reworked.
The interior has also been redone with an all new dashboard. The 4.3 inch infotainment system lets you control and view the GPS, radio, and Bluetooth and phone setup. Stitching and brushed aluminum trim give the Grand Lancer a more upscale feel. Driver’s instrumentation now uses the Smart dashboard, which is also used in the new Colt Plus. The smart dashboard has three different speedometer and tachometer settings. You can personalize the colors of the instrument panel, view tire pressure, oil life, fuel range, etc.
Grand Lancer is powered by 1.8 liter SOHC MIVEC that produces 140HP mated to an improved JATCO CVT with simulated 8 speeds, this transmission is smooth and gives the Grand Lancer quick acceleration without any noise that CVTs usually push out when floored. Fuel economy is rated at 15.7 km per liter. The Grand Lancer has improved NVH levels, which helps keep engine and road noise at check.
Related: Mitsubishi Xpander Gets 7,500 Units Booked Already
Salient features include Dual-zone Automatic Climate control, Multi-function Steering Wheel, Reverse Park Assist with Camera, 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.2-inch all-digital instrument panel, 6 Airbags, Stability Control, Blind-Spot Detection, ABS with EBD, Brake Assist, Hill Start Assist, Accident Warning System (AWS) and ISOFIX Rear Child Seat Mounts etc.
Lancers have a very strong demand in the Land of Dragon. Although initially Mitsubishi had no plans to introduce the Grand Lancer in other markets, however there were some unofficial reports suggesting an ASEAN market launch somewhere in the future.
Related: Renault-Nissan Could Become Global #1: Carlos Ghosn
Mitsubishi was acquired by Nissan last year, their CEO Carlos Ghosn regarding the revival of Mitsubishi brand said:
“By accessing the technology of the [Renault-Nissan] Alliance, by accessing the platforms of the Alliance, and by accessing the best practices of the Alliance, Mitsubishi is going to be able to not only have a larger lineup of models, but a much more competitive product, while still keeping the Mitsubishi flavor, the Mitsubishi brand, and the Mitsubishi design that’s very different compared to Nissan or Renault.”
The Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance plans to launch 12 new, zero-emission electric vehicles by 2022, as Carlos Ghosn told CNBC in an exclusive interview. The Alliance also plans to introduce 40 vehicles with varying levels of autonomy. Still there is no official word regarding a global re-launch of the Lancer.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
