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These are your top 10 worst-selling vehicles of 2011

Zach Bowman — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 19:57:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Sedan, SUV, Truck, Crossover, Acura, Cadillac, Hyundai, Mitsubishi, Subaru, Suzuki, Toyota, Luxury

Where there are winners, there are inevitably losers. Last year was exceedingly kind to big pickups, sprawling family sedans and SUVs, but not every model came out of 2011 with big sales figures. We took the time to dig through the low-selling models of the past 12 months to find out which vehicles produced throughout the year were the biggest duds. Since we aren't interested in how few Lamborghini Aventador models rolled off of dealer lots in the U.S. in 2011, we kept the MSRP under $100,000.

Our criteria immediately nixed vehicles like the Mazda RX-8, Volvo V50, Ram Cargo Van and everything in the Saab stable due to the fact that those models weren't manufactured through all 12 months of 2011. High-end metal like the Mercdes-Benz SL, CL and G classes were also kicked to the curb due to our price ceiling. Which was the worst of them all? We'll give you a hint. It wasn't the Acura ZDX. Hit the jump to check out our list of the worst-selling vehicles of 2011.

Continue reading These are your top 10 worst-selling vehicles of 2011

These are your top 10 worst-selling vehicles of 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback starting at $19,190, Ralliart at $27,590

Dan Roth — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 09:55:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Hatchback, Mitsubishi

Click above for high-res image gallery of the 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback Ralliart

Lancer, good. Lancer Sportback, better. Lancer Sportback Ralliart, better still. The hatchified version of Mitsubishi's Lancer was confirmed earlier this year to go on sale as a 2010 model. For the first two-thirds, it's a normal Lancer, but out back there's a smidge of extra length and a newly fattened C-Pillar for the practical hatch profile. Not only is it sporting smart-looking hatchy excellence, the Lancer Sportback glowers at the Subaru Impreza and says "bring it."

Tweaking an Impreza's nose is best done when you're rocking the $27,590 Lancer Sportback Ralliart. The entry GTS serves up the style and utility for a reasonable $19,190, but the 2.4-liter four cylinder's 168 horsepower, while good, doesn't exactly get enthusiast blood boiling. If you want your Sportback GTS to shift itself, it will start at $20,190 and pack a CVT with magnesium shift paddles and six fixed ratios to emulate more conventional transmissions.

Real performance isn't the exclusive domain of the Evo. In fact, the Lancer Sportback Ralliart is something of a 2/3 Evo, running an underachieving version of that car's 2.0-liter turbocharged engine spitting out 237 horsepower through all four wheels either via a twin-clutch paddle-shifted six-speed. More hatches are always good, and more higher-performance hatches are even more welcome. Get all the details in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback Ralliart

Gallery: 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback

Continue reading 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback starting at $19,190, Ralliart at $27,590

2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback starting at $19,190, Ralliart at $27,590 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Aug 2009 09:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Mitsubishi Ralliart Sportback spotted in MI

Frank Filipponio — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 19:01:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Performance, Hatchback, Mitsubishi, Rumormill

Click above for another shot of the Lancer Sportback

The crew at NextAutos caught a Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback testing in the great state of Michigan, providing us with further proof that the WRX-fighter is on its way to the States. The Sportback is the hatch/wagon/combi variant of the Lancer that originally debuted in Paris, and while Mitsubishi still hasn't confirmed drivetrain choices for the U.S., we've been assured that a Ralliart version is in the cards.

The Sportback aims to unseat the five-door Subaru Impreza both here and abroad, with gasoline engine choices in Europe spanning the range from 1.5- to 1.8-liters, along with a turbodiesel displacing 2.0 liters. The Sportback Ralliart will be powered by the same turbocharged 2.0-liter MIVEC four equipped on the sedan and putting out 237 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels through Mitsubishi's new Twin-Clutch SST transmission and Active Center Differential. Expect the Sportback to arrive on U.S. shores later this year, with the Ralliart variant following shortly thereafter.

[Source: NextAutos]

Spy Shots: Mitsubishi Ralliart Sportback spotted in MI originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Paris 2008: Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart Sportback

Jonathon Ramsey — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:57:00 EST

Filed under: Wagon, Paris Motor Show, Mitsubishi

Click above for high-res gallery of Lancer Sportback Ralliart

Rounding out the Mitsubishi Lancer line this year is the new Lancer Sportback, also in extra spicy Ralliart flavor. It's everything you love about the Lancer plus the space, versatility and convenience of a wagon - the first time since the '80s you'll be able to have your cake and haul it, too. If it weren't for the spoiler, which is aptly called the "rear wing", and the subwoofer in the trunk, you'd be forgiven for thinking this was just another cool little wagon. But thanks to the Lancer Ralliart's turbocharged 2.0L MIVEC engine producing 237 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque and Twin-Clutch SST transmission, you'll soon be able to get those groceries with gusto. And it's the only wagon we know of with an access hatch to the central differential. All the details can be found in Mitsubishi's official press release after the jump, and live shots of the Lancer Sportback and Sportback Ralliart can be viewed in our high-res gallery below.

Gallery: Paris 2008: Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback

Continue reading Paris 2008: Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart Sportback

Paris 2008: Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart Sportback originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback Ralliart sneaks out ahead of Paris show

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 15:57:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Paris Motor Show, Hatchback, Mitsubishi

Click above for more spy shots of the Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart Sportback.

We're eagerly anticipating the debut of the Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback and its Ralliart variant in Paris this September, and these recent shots of the five-door making the rounds in Barcelona are just enough to keep us interested. Judging by the German numberplates and a couple of shots that surfaced on Autoweek.nl, we'd guess that the Ralliart Sportback is in the hands of motoring journalists abroad or was on its way to a photoshoot ahead of its launch.

As we've seen previously, the Ralliart hatch takes the Evo-styled front end from its four-door counterpart, along with new side sills, darkened wheels and a subtle rear spoiler. In Europe, the Lancer Sportback will come equipped with either a 1.5- or 1.8-liter four, or a 2.0-liter turbodiesel, while those of us in the U.S. get to enjoy an Evolution experience on the cheap, with a de-tuned version of the 4B11T/C 2.0-liter four, producing 237 hp and 253 lb.-ft. of torque. We like it in red, white or slate grey would be our chosen hue when the Sportback goes on sale in the States early next year.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart Sportback

Gallery: Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback

[Sources: The Auto Union, Autoweek.nl]

Spy Shots: Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback Ralliart sneaks out ahead of Paris show originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Jul 2008 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Paris Pre-Preview: Mitsubishi to unveil production Lancer Sportback and Ralliart version

John Neff — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 10:27:00 EST

Filed under: Wagon, Europe, Paris Motor Show, Hatchback, Mitsubishi

click above to view high-res gallery of the Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback

Mitsubishi announced today that it will unveil the production version of its Lancer Sportback and Lancer Sportback Ralliart at the Paris Motor Show in early October. The Lancer Sportback is just what it sounds like, a five-door hatchback version of the recently redesigned Lancer model that's on sale around the world. Mitsubishi already revealed in its latest global business report that it would be selling the Lancer Sportback in the U.S. as well, but the only time frame given was sometime after the introduction of the Evo X, which is already on sale here.

In Europe, the Lancer Sportback will be powered by a 1.5L or 1.8L four-cylinder, or a 2.0L turbodiesel, while the Sportback Ralliart will feature a turbocharged 2.0L MIVEC engine producing 237 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque that's mated to Mitsubishi's Twin-Clutch SST transmission. It will also feature an Active Center Differential to help send torque to the wheels that can use it, as well as two-piston front brake calipers. Sounds like the same setup we saw on the U.S. version of the Lancer Ralliart sedan that debuted at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show in January. We were particularly smitten with that car, so adding some more interior cubes and a fifth door should only serve to increase our anticipation for Paris.

Gallery: Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback

[Source: Mitsubishi]

Continue reading Paris Pre-Preview: Mitsubishi to unveil production Lancer Sportback and Ralliart version

Paris Pre-Preview: Mitsubishi to unveil production Lancer Sportback and Ralliart version originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Jun 2008 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Geneva 2008: Mitsubishi Prototype-S

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 18:50:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Wagon, Geneva Motor Show, Mitsubishi

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Mitsubishi Prototype-S.

Mitsubishi is serious about extending its range of Lancer products to fill every niche between the base ES model and the range-topping Evolution X MR. The introduction of the Lancer Ralliart was one way of plugging the gaping hole between the lesser Lancer and its rally-bred big brother, but still, something was missing: utility. Mitsubishi's answer to the Subaru WRX Sportwagon and Volkswagen's four-door GTI is the Lancer Prototype-S, a new model that will move on from concept to production within the next year.

All the details that have trickled out over the past month were realized earlier today, as the five-door Lancer made its appearance in Geneva. As expected, power will come from the Ralliart's 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, which sends 240 hp and 252 lb.-ft. of torque through the Twin Clutch SST gearbox and on down to all four wheels through an Active Center differential.

The chances of the Prototype-S making it Stateside grow each day, particularly as Mitsubishi aims to reestablish itself as a producer of economical and entertaining vehicles that blend a bit of sportiness with a dose of functionality.

Mitsubishi's press release is available after the jump.

Gallery: Mitsubishi Prototype S

Continue reading Geneva 2008: Mitsubishi Prototype-S

Geneva 2008: Mitsubishi Prototype-S originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Mar 2008 18:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mitsubishi releases long-term business plan, Lancer Sportback coming to North America

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 14:29:00 EST

Filed under: Wagon, Plants/Manufacturing, Mitsubishi

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Mitsubishi Prototype-S concept.

Mitsubishi put out a press release earlier today outlining its global business plan for the next few years. The official title of the blueprint for Mitsubishi's future is "Step Up 2010" and the automaker's overall prognostication looks good globally, but more "bear" than "bull" for the U.S. market.

Sales in the States are expected to drop by some 15,000 units by 2011, something that isn't entirely unexpected, while Mitsubishi figures that worldwide sales will increase from the 1.34 million units sold currently to 1.42 million by March 31, 2011. Most of the boom is expected to come from emerging markets in Brazil, China, India, the Middle East and Russia, with the latter expected to climb by close to 70-percent and eclipsing the American market by around 63,000 vehicle sales.

Mitsubishi's focus in the U.S. will primarily center on making a profit over selling as many vehicles as it can. To that effect, incentives will be reduced, dealer quality will be improved and a renewed focus on passenger cars will be established. On the product front, Mitsubishi is touting the introduction of the Evolution X that's currently on sale, plus a redesigned Eclipse that will be coming to market in the next few years. Although there wasn't much in the way of product announcements, the release clearly stated that it would offer "a sport hatchback Lancer model [after the release of the Evo X]." Incredibly good news for enthusiasts, particularly if it equips the Sportback with the Ralliart's drivetrain, similar to the Prototype-S that's due to be unveiled next week in Geneva.

Mitsubishi's full press release is posted after the jump.

Gallery: Mitsubishi Prototype S

Continue reading Mitsubishi releases long-term business plan, Lancer Sportback coming to North America

Mitsubishi releases long-term business plan, Lancer Sportback coming to North America originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Feb 2008 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Geneva Preview: Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback sketches surface

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 07:56:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Geneva Motor Show, Hatchback, Mitsubishi

Click the image above for a high-res gallery.

Our new friend Dan sent us a few sketches of what's supposedly the Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback, a near production-ready version of the Sportback Concept that debut back in 2005. Although we're not sure if these are official images out of Mitsu-HQ, they're very similar to some of the concept sketches we've seen in the past.

This new shot stays true to the original Sportback concept's profile and lines, but comes complete with a front clip that's more reminiscent of the rest of the Lancer line and a rear end that looks far more feasible for production. When the hatch finally makes it to dealers, likely sometime later this year, expect power to come from a 2.4-liter four, with an Evo version getting the same turbocharged 2.0-liter and all-wheel-drive system from its four-door sibling. And if Mitsubishi is smart, and decides to bring the hatch to the States, a Ralliart version to compete with the Subaru Impreza WRX five-door should be in the cards.

Gallery: Mitsubishi Prototype S

Geneva Preview: Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback sketches surface originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Jan 2008 07:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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