2008 Mitsubishi Lancer VRX review
February 15, 2008 by Karl Peskett
2008 Mitsubishi Lancer VRX review
Model tested: Mitsubishi Lancer VRX
Recommended Retail Price: $28,990
Options fitted: Rockford Fosgate Stereo – $750, Metallic Paint – $350
Styling, good handling, interior room
ABS not great, steering loads up unexpectedly, quality not quite there
CarAdvice rating: 
(3.75)
- Photographs and review by Karl Peskett
This is a personal preference: I like music without words. Words can (and I emphasis, “can”) ruin a beautiful piece of music, so instrumentals are my thing. Correspondingly, orchestral pieces are at the top of my list. And my favourite composer, is John Williams.
No, not “Hey True Blue” John Williamson. There’s a critical difference. Williams is responsible for some of the most recognised pieces in modern history. Think Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Jurassic Park, ET, Home Alone, Close Encounters, and more. And of course, let’s not forget Jaws. The film that scared everyone out of the water – some people forever.
Yes, the shark affectionately known as Bruce at Universal Studios, has certainly inspired fear in the hearts of many. But it’s also inspired car design. You only have to look as far as the new Lancer VRX to see it in evidence.
It’s certainly a nose-heavy look, and, in my eyes at least, it’s quite appealing. Actually, people give you a second glance. You can see their minds working away, thinking, “Is that the new Evo?….Nah….But is it?…” The whole shark-nose front end, combined with the subtle front lip, side skirts and big wheels give this little car an aggressive feel.
But really, this isn’t a little car. Step inside, and you realise what all the fuss is about. The interior room is deceptive. It’s called a Lancer, yet unlike its predecessors, it’s really a mid-sized car. The rear seats are about as roomy as you’ll get in the small-car category, and the fronts are ever so slightly bolstered to give you more side support.
I should be getting my new black VRX lancer soon..but im getting a manual 2.4 so i will be sure to let everyone know how it goes!!!!
I’m planning on getting the new VRX 2.4 litre when it comes out but wanted to know if anyone knows when it is scheduled for release and will there be any major changes from the current model…ie…is the only difference in the engine?
Thanks
Hey guys, saw some folk taking some photos of new Lancers in Adelaide’s CBD last night.
Possibly for marketing the new MY09 model?
Will there be changes to the new 2.4L VRX other than the engine… Does anyone know? I have one ordered, the dealer said it will be here at the end of September. Mitsubishi Australia said it will be here in the last quarter of the year though.
Hi Jay,
so your Lancer VRX 2.4L will be ready at the end of September?…I have one on order too but was told to be looking at mid to late October to get mine…
As to changes, I really don’t know either. I’ve been told that the engine is the only major difference, and judging by the American websites, it looks like the new VRX will look exactly the same as the previous model, so fingers crossed.
Yes, I have been told the end of September however I have no doubt that my dealer is just trying to keep my hopes up…. I am sure the end of the month will come and then it will be mid to late October…. so annoying!
I have just signed up for a black VRX. Can’t wait to pick it up.
Hardest problem I had was the choice of colour.
The black is so cool. I liked the grey as well. I live on a dirt road so I know that I will be washing my car heaps but any colour would be dirty.
My sister bought a new black VRX auto with the paddles on the steering wheel when they first came out. Ive driven it a few times, it looks great reminds me of small VE SS. Would i buy a Lancer VRX ? No! Here’s what i don’t like about them dashboard is way to large, you could play football on it. Instruments look like a 1950’s Fiat, Gear lever is to short, Steering wheel is to small…like a go kart, Front seats sit to low and not enough support, car rides like a billy cart with those large rims and low profile tyres. I own a 98 verada and after getting out of my sister’s VRX and getting into mine it’s like going from a Lada Samara to a rolls royce !
Well, I should be picking up my new car next week. I have had to wait for some property to sell.
Can anyone tell me if the earthing cable kit is an accessory that I should get. I am not technical. All it says about it is that it brightens the headlights???
Please help
Ta
I picked up a champayne vrx in mid 2008
I do a lot of counry ks…it gets 7.8/100 for me and i am not light on the pedal
I have driven full time all my life…its great to get into a car and have fun again. if you want to do 200mph forget it.if you want to throw it around and rev it out …youll have a ball!So many people come up and say how much they like the look.the sound systems great
I have had mitsubishi on and off for 27 years and have allways had excellent reliability,that why i came back.A great fun car is a bonus!
Well I have my Black VRX and I Love it!!
It does everything I could ask. Yeah black is not a good color where I live and I think that I paid too much but whats done is done. I should have taken hubby with me.
I don’t find the seats uncomfortable. I like the firmness. I love the big dash and the displays. I love the sound system and having a sun roof is great.
I cannot complain about my car at all.