THE original Mitsubishi Lancer was a much smaller car than the latest version, which is now closer to the Galant than the old, discontinued Carisma.
But Mitsubishi really is playing both ends against the middle with its new Lancer because it's appealing to those who want to trade down from a bigger car as well as to buyers who want more room than is offered by superminis.
The company has completely changed its approach to marketing and there are four distinct Lancer models, with 1.5 and 1.8 petrol and 2.0 diesel engines in five or four door Sportback bodystyles.
The engine range is comparatively narrow, but the 2.0 diesel comes in at the top and is the subject of this test in the range-topping GS4 version which comes with a Pan-European HDD satellite navigation system with colour touch screen; 30GB music server; heated leather seats; iPod / MP3 auxiliary input; personalisation of car set up (e.g. set your own preferences for windscreen wiper operation, interior light delays, auto-folding wing mirror options, etc) and an advanced vehicle data system covering vehicle environment, altitude, direction plus an advanced trip computer.
I have always admired the Mitsubishi diesels and the new Lancer is no exception, packing in a lot of power and delivering it with an eager and creamy smoothness as well as effortless economy.
Not only is the engine a delight, but the six speed gearbox is a perfect match. It gives very smart acceleration from rest, pulls strongly when overtaking and is utterly composed on main roads.
The changes are easy and smooth and you never feel like it's hard work to use or that it's working hard under your hands and feet.
The brakes pull it up quickly and smoothly as well and the handbrake securely holds it on a slope.
Steering is a little light for my liking but it turns quickly and tightly and there is no twitchiness or vibration at speed.
Secondary controls are in the usual place and work well with a satisfying assuredness while the numerous auxiliary buttons are scattered about the fascia and central console.
Instruments are plentiful, large, clearly marked and easy to read and backed up by familiar warning lights.
Oddments room is very good throughout the cabin and the boot space is a reasonable 400 litres and is of a sensible shape.
Driver and passengers can climb in or out with ease and once seated the adjustment in front is very good with generous room all round and the seats are very well shaped, supporting and comfortable.
Ride comfort is very good as well; in fact it feels like a bigger car, but it does not roll around, pitch or dip under acceleration or braking. It soaks up all bumps without letting them shake up the car's occupants.
Despite its comfortable composure, the Lancer GS4 handles well and you can safely press on if needed because it's never put off line by mid-corner bumps and responds faithfully to inputs from the driver.
Visibility is good with thin roof pillars, low waistline, good wipers and long range headlights.
Noise levels are low throughout and the most noticeable is some rumbling from the tyres over coarse or bumpy surfaces.
The Lancer GS4 is fairly rapid from rest and the motorway limit is no boundary to its ability, while it is hard to drag down consumption to less than 40mpg.
Anyone familiar with the former Lancer will immediately appreciate the difference in the new one and while most manufacturers are taking the line that small is sexy, in the case of the Mitsubishi Lancer it's big is better.
FAST FACTS
Mitsubishi Lancer GS4 4dr
Price: £18,689
Mechanical: 138bhp, 4cyl 2.0 diesel engine driving front wheels via 6-spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 129mph
0-60mph: 9.7sec
Combined MPG: 45
Insurance group: 9
CO2 Emissions: 165gkm
BiK Rating: 24%
Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited, 12yrs body, 3yrs paint