Mitsubishi decided to get a jump on the competition by introducing the all-new 2008 Lancer in early 2007. Loaded with ergonomic features often found in more expensive vehicles and resized to improve performance and handling, the sports-tuned GTS is, first of all, fun to drive. As Lancer’s top-of-the-line trim for the compact sport sedan (there is also a base DE and mid-line ES), the GTS comes standard with Bluetooth phone connectivity, 10-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels, front and side air dams, fog lights, a chrome tailpipe tip and a high rear spoiler, which slightly hinders rear visibility. Lancers use a new performance-based global platform first introduced last year on the Outlander SUV. The same 4-cylinder engine, a 5-speed manual transmission that can be upgraded on the GTS to a 6-speed with continuously variable transmission (CVT) to keep rpm’s higher when shifting gears, and a new rigid unibody structure with high-strength steel for a smoother ride are found on all three trims. Our GTS test-drive added a $1,500 Sun and Sound package that included a sunroof, Sirius Satellite Radio, a 650-watt Rockford-Fosgate premium sound system using nine speakers in seven positions and audio input jacks. A navigation and technology package for $2,000 added a 30 gigabyte high-definition navigation system with CD/MP3/DVD capability and FAST key entry. FAST stands for Freehand Advanced Security Transmitter and allows you to keep the key, with an embedded chip, in your pocket. Pulling on either front door unlocks it. When leaving, just push a small rubber button on the door handle to lock the car. There is no actual key on the fob and to start the engine, a rubber-encased ignition switch is turned. Very cool and very addictive. Size-wise, the new Lancer lengthens its wheelbase 1.4 inches, adding 2.7 inches to the width and shortening the car length just over half an inch. The result is greater control on the road, and manipulating the short-throw shifter provides sports car thrills on ramps and curves. Heavy-duty brakes on the 18-inch wheels generate excellent stopping power, along with anti-lock brakes and electronic brake-force distribution. The GTS uses a sports-tuned suspension with different stabilizer bars and spring/shock damping rates to reduce jostling but still allow road feedback. Safety features are strong, with seven air bags, including one for the knees. Outside, the aggressive look suggests a hot car, especially the black, honeycombed front grills. Inside, space is plentiful and high quality materials provide an upscale ambiance.