The February 2006 issue of Autocar India has featured a road test of the Mitsubishi Lancer Cedia. This is a sports model, and adequately sporty too. More than grading it for looks and styling, Autocar seems impressed with the performance of the car, and they have enough reason. Perhaps that explains the 7/10 rating issued by them. Keep reading to find out the strengths and the weaknesses of the car.

PROS:

1. Its official. The Cedia has killer looks. The slightly high ridge in the center that the bonnet sports instantly attracts attention, the clear lens lamps in the front and swept back look make the car get cooler and cooler. What speaks for the sporty image of the car is the low stance of the car. The overall package totally spells cool!
2. The Cedia’s suspension system does not disappoint by any means. It has rigorously been designed to suit the needs and conditions of Indian roads. And Hindustan Motors has done a brilliant job; the suspension is absolutely noiseless and refrains from filtering all thuds and clunks into the cabin.
3. As for the seating in the Cedia, the driver’s seat is beautifully designed. There is a provision for the adjustment in the steering wheel and the seat height, letting the driver find the perfect position for a better driving experience.
4. The performance of the Cedia’s engine is truly world class. Its refinement is truly amazing, and there is no constant need to change gears even in traffic. The engine is very smooth, and is relaxed at cruising speeds. On the highway, it flies past other cars efficiently and smoothly.
5. The brakes on the Lancer Cedia are very efficient and sensitive. Going fast on this car is not a problem at all. The car is equipped with ABS and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD). Thus, the car is cool with even emergency braking, even if constantly repeated.
6. The Cedia’s fuel efficiency makes it one of the most fuel efficient cars in town. It manages a 10.2 kpl in the city,

and 14.2 kpl average on the highway. That’s almost unheard of from a 2.0 L car.

CONS:

1. The side view of the Cedia is not exactly eye-candy. Summing up the exteriors of the car, they are not adequately designed to leave an individual breathless at first glance.
2. Coming to the rear seating of the car, it is not as comfortable and spacious as most would have liked. There is not enough knee-room for tall passengers, and this can pose a problem for long drives.
3. The aesthetics of the interiors, although tastefully made up with the black upholstery, does not have what it takes to be described as ‘elite’ and ‘plush’.
4. The cubby holes in the Cedia are surely present, but do not have enough space to accommodate large boxes and other stuff.
5. The steering wheel is a bit vague and light at lesser speeds. This does not make it the most coveted car for drivers.