Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. (MMPC) has introduced new variants in the Lancer EX range.

The Lancer EX 1.6 will come in three variants: the base GLX with a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic and the top-of-the-line MX with 4-speed automatic.

Meanwhile, MMPC has also freshened up its 2-litre GT-A as it is poised to offer still the best value for money in the compact sedan segment given its top of its class features.

The Lancer EX now features an all-new 4A92 1.6-litre 16-valve DOHC MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) engine. This exclusive Mitsubishi technology promises an optimal performance across the rev range by adjusting the timing of the intake camshaft. Advancing or retarding the cam timing alters the distribution of power and torque throughout the useable rev range. This technology stabilizes the combustion without compromising the fuel efficiency and emissions.

The 4A92 1.6 litre powerhouse uses a lightweight aluminum block for better power-to-weight ratio and efficiency. Maximum power of the Lancer EX 1.6 MIVEC is 117 ps at 6,000 rpm while maximum torque of 154 Nm is achieved at 4,000 rpm.

Two types of transmission are available for the Lancer EX 1.6 MIVEC. The MX and GLX AT will have the 4-speed INVECS II automatic transmission. The 4-Speed INVECS II provides quiet and efficient automatic shifting eliminating the harshness and power lag of traditional gear changes. It can also create an intelligent profile which can anticipate the driver's move by monitoring the road and driving condition and observing the driving behavior. For those who find the excitement and classic feel of a manual transmission, Mitsubishi will also be offering the GLX with a 5-speed manual transmission.

The new Lancer EX 1.6 MIVEC boasts High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps for the MX variant and Multi-Reflector Halogen Headlamps for the GLX variants.

Inside the Lancer EX is a 3-spoke leather steering wheel with silver accent adding elegance to the sporty feel of the MX variant. The Lancer EX 1.6 models have a standard Multimedia Entertainment System which features DVD, MP3 playback, Tuner and iPod connectivity. These functions can be controlled via 8-inch touchscreen monitor at the center of the dashboard.

For safe driving the Lancer EX also features Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free mobile phone use. The top-of-the-line 1.6 MX variant meanwhile features Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) Navigation as an added feature to its Multimedia Entertainment System. This navigation system can direct you to your selected destination visually, while providing other helpful information such as streets, major buildings and establishment names, speed limit of certain streets, and other point of interests.

The Lancer EX 1.6 MIVEC body structure is designed with Mitsubishi's exclusive Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE). With the RISE body structure, occupants are protected by employing the extensive front and rear crumple zones to absorb impact energy before it can be transferred to the cabin. The cabin and doors are made of a highly rigid frame and reinforced beams to redirect energy and damage away from the occupants.

The Lancer EX 1.6 MIVEC is available in Orion Black, Citadel Red, Dominic Silver, and Polar White. The SRP for the Lancer EX MX is P930,000 (US$ 22,400), P855,000 for the GLX AT and P825,000 for the GLX MT.

Meanwhile the 2.0-litre 16 Valve DOHC MIVEC (4B11) Lancer EX GTA also gets an upgrade with its new-design 18" alloy wheels giving it an even sportier appeal.

The Lancer EX GTA CVT is available in Orion Black, Citadel Red, Dominic Silver, Polar White and Kinetic Blue, which is an exclusive color for the GTA variant only. This 2.0 litre variant is priced at P1,295,000.