Interpreting the zeitgeist perfectly, Mitsubishi has introduced an entry-level Lancer for just £12,499. That's a lot of car for not much money. While its 1.5-litre engine isn't going to fling you down the road with the same ferocity of its 2.0-litre turbocharged Evo relatives, it's quick enough - 62mph arriving in 11.6 seconds.
What's likely to interest customers more than its fine looks are the 44mpg fuel combined consumption figure and its comprehensive equipment levels. It seems Mitsubishi hasn't junked all the gear to achieve its low price. Indeed, there's metallic paint, front fog lamps, 16-inch alloys, airbags aplenty and air conditioning to keep you cool.
Add standard integrated Bluetooth, an iPod connection and steering wheel audio controls and the Lancer 1.5 SE has more goodies than the conveyor belt from the Generation Game. Adding another £275 to the list price means you've paid for the first three services, making it not just cheap to buy but to own, too.
Kyle Fortune - 12 Aug 2009