Test drive: 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart

Last week's blog entry on fast four-cylinder cars brought some interesting comments about whether there really is a need for super-fast cars like the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. True, one doesn't need to go 0-60 in five seconds to make it to work on time -- though some mornings it helps -- but that's why Mitsubishi offers a less powerful (but still sporty) version of the Lancer, the Ralliart. With 162 horsepower versus the Evo's 280, the Ralliart is to the Evo what the Subaru Impreza WRX is to the Impreza WRX STi. Except as Philip Powell found during his test drive, the Lancer Ralliart still has enough power and grip to let mischevious drivers terrorize their fellow road-goers. Not that Philip would ever do that. No, no, don't even think it. (But if you happen see a white-haired gent tearing up the streets of Vancouver, BC in a Ralliart, let's just pretend he works for another web site.) -- Aaron Gold