2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback Ralliart Program #2336

In America, a station wagon isn’t usually thought of as a fun to drive car. But in the rest of the world, sporty wagons are all the rage. And that is the concept behind this wagon based on Mitsubishi’s Lancer compact sedan. Now, add style and performance from Mitsubishi’s Ralliart division, and it can become downright entertaining. So let’s take a turn in the new Lancer Sportback Ralliart, and see why small wagons can be big fun.

Indeed, the 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback Ralliart is no ordinary station wagon. With its tuner-roots and sporty image, the kids will be eagerly riding shotgun when Dad or Mom rolls this little gem out of the driveway.

Designed to handle and feel like an entry-level sport sedan, but with all the convenience of a wagon, the Sportback has as much pose as purpose. Its Ralliart-added looks distinguish the modern Mitsubishi split-front fascia with unique sport grille, deeper air dam, and projector-beam fog lamps. Its body sides are performance clad with added lower moldings and split-spoke 16-inch alloys.

The Sportback is available in two trim levels, the LS wagon or our Ralliart version. The Sportback’s 181.3 inch body is the longest in its class. At the rear, a spoiler and roof to bumper taillights frame the useful hatch. But no one gets by on looks alone, and this Sportback is no exception. Completing the racing-inspired package is its Ralliart performance. Power starts with a new 2.4 liter single overhead cam Inline 4. Then kick in Mitsubishi’s Innovative Valve timing and lift Electronic Control system and watch power and efficiency soar.

The Sportback runs 162 horsepower and puts out 162 pound-feet of torque. Thanks to a larger diameter exhaust, that’s two-horses more than its LS wagon mate, and it pulled our Ralli-wagon from the 0-60 mark in 8 seconds flat during preliminary testing. This powerplant is linked to a standard four-speed automatic transmission. And though you might prefer the shift-happy thrill of a manual, unfortunately it’s just not available on the wagon. But, with this well matched engine and tranny, you probably won’t miss it. There is just enough of the peppy performance you’d expect from any car called Ralliart.

And, when it’s time to brake, the Sportback Ralliart relies on its larger four wheel discs with standard ABS and Electronic Brake Force Distribution which offers all the stopping power you need.

Supporting this front wheel drive wagon is its enhanced Ralliart suspension. The fully independent configuration wears MacPherson front struts and a multi-link rear with coil springs. The sport tuned system and stiffer steering rack accounts for the wagon’s tight handling in corners and active ride quality.

Inside, this Sportback shows off its roomy cabin and Ralliart perks. Standards include a tilt-adjustable steering wheel, leather-wrapped shifter, and 6-speaker CD audio. At the helm, driver’s face a Lancer Evolution gauge cluster and a clean dash design with Titanium accents. The well-padded front buckets have 8-way adjustment and open-style head rests. While curtain airbags are not available, Ralliart does add the protection of front seat mounted side impact airbags.

The rear cabin holds three in a pinch, and features adjustable and fold flat seat backs. Cargo space starts at 24.9 cubic feet. With the seats folded, storage expands to 60.7 cubic feet.

Also adding to wagon-efficiency is the Sportback’s fuel economy. EPA estimates call for 22 city and 28 highway. Our winter-solstice spin revealed 24 MPG on a mixed loop.

Not bad, and definitely a case for this youth-oriented offering. As is the price. Hoping to win over those 20-something shoppers and keep the repo man at bay, Mitsubishi doles out a modest asking price. The LS wagon begins at $17,304. Choose to beat feet in our Ralliart model and expect a base of $19,914. Those are fair prices no matter what your age. Plus, throw in Mitsubishi’s new 10-year, 100,000 mile powertrain warranty and the tag on this sporty wagon looks even lighter.

So, to station wagon or not to station wagon? Well, when it’s as affordable and has the redeeming road performance of this 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback Ralliart, it’s an easy choice. Utility and economical driving fun in one small sport wagon package, a package that brings a smile to everyone who drives it away.