The most significant upgrade is to the range’s top end, where a new 2.4-litre premium variant, the Aspire, has been announced.

Offering enhanced internal and external appointments, as well as improved engine response from a new 2.4-litre engine, the Mitsubishi Lancer Aspire provides a real alternative for Australia’s many large-sized passenger vehicle owners wishing to downsize without losing any of the prestige or performance they are accustomed to.

Generating 125 kW @ 6,000 rpm and 226 Nm @ 4,100 rpm, the 2.4-litre MIVEC four-cylinder engine is matched to a standard Continuously Variable Transmission and returns a frugal 8.5-litres per 100 km – well ahead of many of its rivals on all of the above counts.

Confirming the new 2.4-litre engine offered a real improvement in off-the-mark performance combined with a more refined driving experience, Mitsubishi opted to apply the new engine to the other premium vehicle in the Lancer sedan line-up - the VRX, which boasts sports-tuned suspension, alloy pedals and enough body work to make its sporting ambitions perfectly clear.

In addition to the new engine, Lancer VRX variants receive an enhanced sound insulation package and a premium console for the interior.

Mitsubishi’s Lancer ES and VR variants receive minor specification upgrades including the improved sound insulation package and enhanced fuel economy due to revised gear ratios on manual variants. Design upgrades on the ES model include the addition of chrome accents to the interior, including detailing on air vents and handbrake surround.

Launched in September 2007, the Mitsubishi Lancer has established itself as a popular choice with small car buyers and proof of this is the 8.4 per cent increase in sales the vehicle has claimed to date in 2008 (figures based on CY2008 v CY2007), well ahead of the segment growth of just 1.9 per cent.

Part of Lancer’s appeal is the high level of standard safety features offered by the entire line-up. Offering Active Stability Control and Traction Control (ASTC) as a standard feature across the entire model range, the all-new Lancer has shaken-up the small car segment with its stylish design, nimble performance and industry leading safety standards at an affordable price point.

In addition to ASTC, the Lancer line-up offers the availability of seven airbags, ABS braking system with EBD and BA, RISE body structure, seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters and five height adjustable head restraints. With the additional features provided by the 2009 model year upgrade, the Mitsubishi Lancer is the prime, affordable, safety-oriented choice in the Australian small car segment.

All Lancers are protected by Mitsubishi’s industry leading and comprehensive five year/130,000 whole vehicle warranty, backed up by its 10 year/160,000 km powertrain warranty and a five year/unlimited km roadside assistance package.

According to Chris Maxted, passenger vehicle product planning manager, the coming months will see further product activity for the company.

"The 2009 model year updates are just the tip of the iceberg for the Lancer range,” Mr Maxted said. “As well as the introduction of the new 2.4-litre Aspire and VRX models, in the coming months we will expand the Lancer line-up even further, with the arrival of the all-new Sportback hatch."

"Close on the Sportback’s heels will be the fantastic all-new Lancer Ralliart sedan and hatch. These are cars that provide performance with attitude, at an affordable price, and are designed to give our competitors a real run for their money."

“We can’t wait,” said Mr Maxted.

The new updated CJ series Lancer models are now available from Mitsubishi dealers across Australia.

Mitsubishi Lancer 2009 MY Pricing (RRP)