2002 Mitsubishi Lancer O-Z Rally

Remember that girl in high school? You know the one: deliberately tight jeans, voluptuous body, sultry smile, drove the boys crazy with no intention of fulfilling their dreams? Mitsubishi’s new Lancer O-Z Rally is a lot like her. It shows up with all the trappings of a boy toy: rear spoiler, sport wheels, “Rally” in its name referring, we assume, to Mitsubishi’s successful racing heritage. But just when we’re thinking this must be Mitsubishi’s answer to the Subaru WRX, Ford’s SVT Focus, Dodge Neon R/T and other fast and fun little cars in this blossoming compact class, the Lancer O-Z Rally lets us know … it only wants to be friends.

All promise, no delivery.

The Lancer is actually Mitsubishi’s replacement for the ho-hum Mirage, which hangs on for the moment as a two-door only. Truth be told, the Mirage has always been a Lancer, the name Mitsubishi used for this model abroad since the early ‘70s. Now, in an effort to distance from the Mirage’s lagging sales and underscore the fact that improvements are significant, Mitsubishi “introduces” the Lancer on our shores.

The sedan comes in three models: ES as the base, LS as the mid-level and O-Z Rally as the “sport.” All are economically priced. All are more interesting than the Mirage they replace.

But the O-Z Rally, which I tested, has a long way to go to fulfill our dreams.

The Good News
If this O-Z Rally didn’t have “fun” written all over it, I wouldn’t be so disappointed. Take away the sport expectations and you have a really solid compact sedan that offers good things for the money.

Starting with size, this Lancer’s new longer wheelbase and length provide four more inches overall, with height and width remaining roughly the same. The biggest improvement is a 3.1-inch extension in rear legroom, giving it bragging rights in its class.

There are 11.3 cubic feet of trunk space, accessed by a convenient low liftover decklid. Overall, it utilizes its space well for a compact.

Reducing noise into the cabin and stiffening the overall structure, which are complementary goals, were also high on the priority list. The results are noticeable. This Lancer is exceptionally quiet and composed, especially surprising when you’re expecting the sport treatment.

Also in the positives column is its list of standard features. From rack and pinion steering, four-wheel independent suspension and front and rear stabilizers to air conditioning, CD player, cruise control, adjustable steering column, 8-way driver’s seat positioning, rear center armrest with cupholders, auto-off headlamps and remote keyless entry, its standard equipment is most impressive for a $16,000 car.

The Bad News
I’ve pretty much already handed you the bad news. Specifically, it’s a 2.0 liter 4-cylinder engine mustering 120 horses and 130 foot pounds of torque. That is a few more than the old Mirage and, as Mitsubishi trumpets, low-end torque has been enhanced for better uptake.

Nonetheless, even with 5-speed manual transmission (which mine had), this Lancer doesn’t, well, rally to the challenge.

Gas mileage
EPA rated at 26 mpg city/33 highway

Price
Manufacturer’s base, $15,487;
Price as tested, $16,392

Is it worth it?
I think this new Lancer shows far more promise in the compact category than the Mirage ever did. It is very handsomely equipped with extras, it’s quiet, attractive enough, roomy and feels like it costs more than it does.

As for this O-Z Rally edition, however, it may “share bloodline” with the celebrated Lancer Evolution rally racer, but it shares none of the exhilarating driving traits that propelled this famous sibling to stardom.

In other words, when it comes to any real thrills here, Mitsubishi is only teasing.

Beth Stein is a life-long car buff and free-lance journalist living in Nashville. She has reviewed new vehicles in print for 12 years as a weekly columnist for Nashville’s daily newspapers and on television for Road Test Magazine and Motor Trend Television. Currently, her reviews appear nationally on Car And Driver Television.