The Lancer that isn’t X-rated

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As good as hardcore can be, sometimes it’s a little too much. So this 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart is a somewhat toned-down version of the enthusiast-only Lancer Evolution X. It gets the same turbocharged, 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine, only it produces 235 horsepower and 253 pounds-feet of torque. Which can be perfectly adequate for most people.

It will also have an all-wheel drive system which can be set for tarmac, gravel or snow (a nod to the Lancer’s rallying heritage) and Mitsubishi’s acclaimed six-speed, twin-clutch sequential transmission. But on the other hand, the optional 30GB hard drive and high-end audio system should be able to store a few brow-soothing tunes.

The Lancer Ralliart will go on sale this summer, with prices to be announced nearer the time. But expect something in the mid-$20k area.

-- Colin Ryan