SLP Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible

The last thing a Camaro needs is 324 more horses, but that didn’t stop SLP (a.k.a. Street Legal Performance) from making a Camaro ZL1. The original, hyphenated ZL-1 was a $4160 option pack in 1969, a box that just 69 customers checked. An underrated 430-hp, aluminum-block 7.0-liter V-8 was the highlight.

SLP adopts a similar approach with this Camaro. Its ZL1 package costs $80,000 on top of a $32,750 Camaro SS coupe or $38,800 convertible donor, as seen here. Just like the ’69, only 69 ZL1s will be offered by SLP. It’s a juiced-up, $118,800 clean-and-jerk that turns heads, raises ears, and roasts rubber.
And no, this SLP ZL1 is not related to Chevrolet’s upcoming Camaro ZL1: Years ago, SLP wisely trademarked “ZL.” Both SLP and Chevy fit an Eaton TVS supercharger to an aluminum-block V-8. But whereas Chevy uses a 6.2-liter LSA to churn up 580 horsepower, SLP opted for a 7.0-liter LS7 making a claimed 750 horses.

As with most megapower cars, the SLP is traction limited at launch, and we wrangled a not-earthshaking 4.2-second 0-to-60-mph dash. The quarter-mile falls in 12.3 seconds at 119 mph. That’s more than half a second quicker than a stock Camaro SS coupe in either metric. The SLP shows its power at higher speeds, clearing 150 mph in 19.8 seconds, 15.6 seconds before a stocker.

With the top retracted, the ZL1’s roar overwhelms any road noise, with an idle reminiscent of a carbureted, hot-cam V-8. A sleeper this is not. Onlookers will easily identify the beast making the noise: A giant hood scoop, a splitter hanging beneath an SLP-designed front fascia, and a few ZL1 badges give this car away.

And every examiner noticed the throw-back houndstooth seats as well as the abundance of faux carbon fiber on the trunk, front splitter, and rear diffuser. Only the hood is authentic carbon fiber.

Even with the stiff-riding SLP adjustable suspension, the ZL1 has plenty of power to overwhelm the rubber on any road windier than Woodward Avenue—something it has in common with the original. It’ll hold the road up to 0.90 g; Baby-stepping beyond that brings the back end around. The same may happen if the supercharger’s 10.0 psi of max boost arrives midcorner. Drive cautiously.

Forged, 20-inch wheels wrapped in wider-than-stock Michelin Pilot Sport PS2s shroud supersized Brembo brake hardware: 15.9-inch rotors with six-piston calipers up front, 15.0-inch rotors with four-piston calipersat the rear. The big brakes didn’t slash stopping distances though, instead lassoing the ZL1 from 70 mph in 159 feet, one foot ­longer than in the stock SS coupe.

Don’t worry if you are too late to grab one of the 69 ZL1s. SLP will build you a similar one, sans the ZL1 badges. Would Chevy be that accommodating?

SEMA 2010:Chevy Z-Spec Line For Volt, Cruze, and Spark

The car manufacturers from Chevrolet have brought a trio of test cars for their new Z-Spec line of aftermarket accessories for the Chevy Volt, Cruze, and Spark models. The first teaser is with the concept version of the all-new Volt electric car. Sure, an electric vehicle is not a typical tuning project, however that doesn’t mean it can’t look good with a body kit, blacked-out trim, and a new wheel package. The Chevy Volt also received a new sports steering wheel, leather wrapped Recaro seats, and racing foot pedals. This new Z-Spec lineup is being showcased on the three small cars; the Volt, Cruze, and Spark right now, but in the future Chevrolet plans to offer the whole line to all models. Chris Perry, the vice president of Chevrolet marketing said, “Chevrolets have always been vehicles customers love to personalize and Z-Spec could give them more choices than ever.


Custom Graphics Packages to be Available Soon for Cruze and Volt

LAS VEGAS – In the epicenter of automotive personalization and performance – the annual SEMA Show – Chevrolet introduced the Z-Spec concept, which explores a new approach for vehicle customization. Chevrolet showcased three Z-Spec concept vehicles: Cruze Z-Spec, Volt Z-Spec and Spark Z-Spec.
The Z-Spec concept demonstrates a cohesive design with a family of factory-engineered accessories and the best of the aftermarket under a single theme. Z-Spec parts could be purchased individually, to suit customer tastes and budgets, and also could spawn limited-edition models from Chevrolet.
In addition, Chevrolet announced a new partnership with Original Wraps to provide custom graphics packages for the Cruze and Volt before the end of the year. Examples of some of the packages are highlighted on the Z-Spec concepts, as well as production-based Cruze and Volt show vehicles.
“Chevrolets have always been vehicles customers love to personalize and Z-Spec could give them more choices than ever,” said Chris Perry, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. “With Chevy’s new compact and small cars coming to market now and in the near future, we focused on Cruze, Volt and Spark for this exercise. The Z-Spec concept really could be applied across the entire Chevrolet lineup, offering customization choices to owners of cars, crossovers and trucks.”
The graphics packages offer a wide range of graphic designs and colors. They’re designed for purchase and installation through Chevrolet dealerships, with the option of rolling the cost into the monthly payments, when selected and installed at the time of vehicle purchase. The designs and color options are available at chevroletgraphics.com.
Indicative of the Z-Spec philosophy, the concept vehicles incorporate a blend of Chevrolet-designed exterior and interior enhancements, and are complemented with performance upgrades developed in conjunction with some of the tuner world’s most respected manufacturers, including Brembo, Borla, K&N and more.
“We’ve designed accessories and chosen well-established, reputable partners,” said Dave Ross, design manager. “These concept elements are designed to complement the design and performance characteristics of the wide range of Chevrolet vehicles.”
CHEVROLET VOLT Z-SPEC CONCEPT
Chevrolet’s all-new, 2011 Volt electric vehicle with extended range is establishing an entirely new segment in the global automotive market. The five-door, four-passenger Volt is designed to provide the benefits of an electric vehicle without limitations.
Along with its groundbreaking electric drive system, the Volt is also a stylish sedan filled with high-tech features. The Volt Z-Spec concept is a natural extension of the style of the production version.
“The concept combines the Volt’s advanced electric propulsion technology with the flair of Z-Spec, because efficiency and high style needn’t be mutually exclusive,” said Paul Arnone, lead designer. “The Z-Spec enhancements give the vehicle a sportier look that doesn’t affect its electric driving range or overall efficiency.”
The Z-Spec concept demonstrates a cohesive design with a family of factory-engineered accessories and the best of the aftermarket under a single theme. On the Volt Z-Spec concept, the unique features include unique lower rocker panels and lower front fascia, grille, taillamps, 19-inch wheels and exterior graphics. Although the Z-Spec parts are only concepts at the moment, they’re being considered for production.
The Volt Z-Spec is driven by the revolutionary Voltec propulsion system, which consists of a 16-kWh lithium-ion battery pack and electric drive unit that provide pure electric range between 25 and 50 miles in moderate conditions, depending on terrain, driving techniques, temperature and battery age. (Mileage based on GM testing. EPA estimates not yet available.)
The Volt’s instantaneous torque proves electric driving can be spirited. Not only does the Volt reach a top speed of 100 mph, the electric drive unit’s excellent low-speed torque of 273 lb.-ft. (368 Nm) takes it from 0 to 60 mph in less than 9.0 seconds and the quarter mile in less than 17.0 seconds.
Once the battery charge drops below a certain level, the Volt’s extended-range 1.4L engine kicks in to provide power to the Volt’s electric motors, which under some conditions can be supplemented with power from the engine itself. This mode provides excellent performance and allows the Volt to travel hundreds of miles on a single tank of fuel and a full battery. This freedom allows the Volt to be driven anytime and anywhere.
VEHICLE HIGHLIGHTS
Exterior:
“Icy White” Metallic paint
Lower rocker panels and lower front fascia
Black chrome satin finish on the grille, belt moldings and outside rearview mirrors
Billet aluminum Chevy “brand bar”
Rear fascia
Rear tail lamps
Graphics package
19-inch GM Accessory wheels
Interior:
Custom Z-Spec graphic door inserts
Racing-style pedals
Custom leather-wrapped, flat-bottom steering wheel with Z-Spec logo
Recaro leather-trimmed front seats with orange accent stitch
Custom Z-Spec floor mats
The 2011 Chevrolet Volt will be available in CA, TX, MI, NY, NJ, CT and Washington, DC at the end of 2010.
CHEVROLET CRUZE Z-SPEC CONCEPT
New to the streets of North America this fall, the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze brings a progressive, globally influenced design complemented by exceptional levels of quietness, quality and attention to detail. Truly a global car, it leverages Chevrolet’s design and engineering talent in Asia, Europe and North America and is sold in more than 60 countries around the world.
Chevrolet’s designers developed the Cruze Z-Spec concept to reflect the car’s global roots, but give it a uniquely American aesthetic. The Z-Spec concept demonstrates a cohesive design with a family of factory-engineered accessories and the best of the aftermarket under a single theme.
The Cruze’s JDSU SpectraFlair Orange Metallic exterior color and racing-inspired graphics give the car can’t-miss-it distinction, while the ground effects, rear spoiler and other exterior cues are de rigueur among tuner enthusiasts. The same goes for the car’s interior trim kit, shift knob and racing-style pedals.
“Cruze is a personal car that will naturally attract youthful customers who want to make it their own,” said Todd Parker, design manager. “The Z-Spec portfolio could offer them an easy way to personalize their vehicle.”
The Cruze Z-Spec concept is powered by the Ecotec 1.4L turbocharged engine and a six-speed manual transmission.
VEHICLE HIGHLIGHTS
Exterior:
JDSU Medium Dark SpectraFlair Orange Metallic color
Custom Z-Spec graphics
Gloss white and matte gray custom graphic stripes (Graphic Concepts)
Ground effects kit
Rear spoiler
High-flow grille with body-color surround trim
Accessory front fog lamp kit
BBS 19-inch wheels
Interior:
Interior trim kit with custom perforated, leather-trimmed instrument panel and doors
Custom flat-bottom, leather-wrapped steering wheel with Z-Spec logo
Recaro leather-trimmed, racing-style seats
Custom Z-Spec embroidered floor mats
Performance:
Pedders sport springs and suspension components
Brembo brake kit
Borla high-flow exhaust system
K&N cold-air intake system
CHEVROLET SPARK Z-SPEC CONCEPT
There’s a new Chevrolet coming to North America in 2012: the Spark. It will be a five-door hatch and the smallest member of Chevrolet’s family of cars, all while bringing style, roominess and versatility to a segment of extremely fuel-efficient vehicles. Spark will provide great efficiency, and its trim size makes it very agile in all kinds of driving conditions while still feeling substantial on the open road.
The Chevrolet Spark Z-Spec concept, introduced at the 2010 SEMA Show, magnifies the sporty appearance, stance and driving experience of the upcoming new car with a racing-inspired ground effects kit, rear spoiler, larger wheels and more. The Z-Spec concept demonstrates a cohesive design with a family of factory-engineered accessories and the best of the aftermarket under a single theme.
“The Chevrolet Spark will cause people to rethink their perceptions of what a small car can be – particularly when it comes to design and performance,” said Paul Arnone, lead designer. “The Spark Z-Spec concept incorporates a blend of Chevrolet-designed exterior and interior enhancements, and wheels by BBS, a proven leader.”
VEHICLE HIGHLIGHTS
Exterior:
LCP Tangerine Metallic Orange color
Custom Z-Spec “Icy White” metallic mirror caps with hydrographics
Rear spoiler
High-flow grille with body-color surround trim
Grill inserts and exterior trim in satin black
BBS 17-inch wheels painted “Icy White” Metallic
Polished exhaust outlet
Interior:
Custom LCP Tangerine Metallic-painted trim components with die-cut Z-Spec-inspired door graphics
Leather-wrapped, flat-bottom steering wheel with Z-Spec badge
Recaro leather trimmed front racing-inspired seats
Custom Z-Spec embroidered front and rear floor mats
Custom machined billet aluminum shift knob and leather-wrapped shift boot with orange accent stitch
Alloy pedal covers

Aston Martin

Finding a reliable insurance provider that can offer you cheap car insurance

Over the past two years, the country’s economic situation has forced some people to reduce costs. Rising commodity prices and falling incomes lead people to seek alternatives that will save them money. Under these circumstances, people have to look for cheap car insurance.

Increasing premiums for auto insurance policies are encouraging people to look out for insurance providers that are able to offer the budget car insurance. While people would be fully justified in finding insurance companies that can offer car insurance at a low price, they should be advised to exercise caution before entering into an agreement with an insurance provider.

Looking around the local market or at the Internet you can find a lot of advertisements offering car insurance at sky-rocketing prices. You can be sure that these offers aren’t the best on the market. However, it would be better to make some inquiries to be convinced that they are indeed on track. There is an abundance of commercials that can mislead us, convincing to believe something that does not exist. In the situation, people should also consider the term of coverage rather than just the tempting price offered by insurance providers.

People can make requests for quotes with different motor insurance companies, either in person or by using the Internet. They can be assured that they will soon be flooded with very cheap offers for car insurance from all suppliers who they contact. However, you need to consider that each insurance provider has a different price for the same type of motor insurance. It is wise to spare some time and make comparisons of different estimates that have been received.
People must understand that they would do well to deal with insurance providers that have been in the business for a while and have a position in the market for backup. Their prices may not to be the lowest but the level of coverage is always the best.
AUDI : Another Ugly Deutsche Invention
BMW : Brings Me Women but Broke My Wallet
FIAT : Failure in Italian Automotive Technology
FORD : Fast Only Rolling Downhill
SAAB : Shape Appears Ass-Backwards
HYUNDAI : Hope You Understand Nothing's Driveable And Inexpensive...
SUBARU : Screwed Up Beyond All Repair Usually
VOLVO : Very Odd Looking Vehicular Object
PORSCHE : Proof Of Rich Spoiled Children Having Everything

Top tips for caravan insurance online

If you’re looking for caravan insurance online, here are a few useful tips.
Caravan insurance online is typically organised under the main caravan description types of statics, motorhomes, tourers etc.
Some sites may offer the capability to enter your details and to be able to see various offers from insurers. Such sites may save you time and effort.
You may find that some providers offers discounts for certain types of behaviour such as belonging to a caravan owners’ association or using additional security features on your caravan such as alarms. Although such discounts may not be substantial individually, collectively they may mount up and be worth looking for.
Try to avoid being too influenced by banner headlines relating to cheap or best insurance. What’s best or cheap for someone else may not be so for you. Instead, look critically at the cover being provided then decide if:
it’s the cover that most fits your needs and situation;
the price seems reasonable in terms of what’s being offered.
Take the time to read the proposal/quotation carefully and pay particular attention to the terms and conditions. These vary significantly and some may be rather more acceptable to you than others. For example, if you go abroad regularly with your caravan then policy restrictions on the number of days you spend outside of the UK may not be acceptable to you (though they may be fine for someone else).
Pay attention to the contents cover. Some policies offer new-for-old forms of replacement while others work on the basis of a market valuation (typically meaning a second-hand value). Either may be fine for you depending upon the number and value of the contents in your caravan – just be clear that the policy matches your requirements.

Finding caravan insurance online is typically quick and easy. Good luck!

2011 Lamborghini Gallardo review

 

 

2011 Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera Coupe

Although it's probably difficult for most people to think of a nearly $200,000 automobile as "affordable," that's the position the Lamborghini Gallardo finds itself in within the Lambo product lineup. But no matter -- sports cars with exotic looks and the performance to match have a built-in ownership audience.

Since its introduction, the mission for this "baby Lamborghini" has been to maintain the style and attitude of Lamborghini's 12-cylinder cars but be more livable in everyday use. It's been a successful strategy, as there's been no shortage of takers who rightly lust after such a usable and alluring sports car. In fact, the Gallardo has become this Italian automaker's best-selling model ever.
Without too much difficultly, one can claim that the Gallardo LP560-4 is Lamborghini's best sports car ever. If there's anything lacking, it's the outrageous spirit and flair so often associated with the company's more expensive or legendary offerings. But the trade-off of a little spirit for a lot of functionality has been a good one, and there's no doubt that the Gallardo is a true, world-class exotic.
Current Lamborghini Gallardo
The exotic Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 is currently available in a coupe body style and spyder convertible. The name LP560-4 refers to its engine position ("longitudinale posteriore" or longitudinal rear), its European horsepower measurement (560 ps) and that all four wheels are powered. There is also a limited-edition model called the LP550-2 Valentino Balboni, which is a rear-wheel-drive-only model named after Lamborghini's storied test driver.
The Gallardo LP560-4 is powered by a 5.0-liter V10 good for 552 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque. The Valentino Balboni model produces 542 hp. A six-speed manual transmission with gated metal shifter is standard, while an automated six-speed sequential-shift manual transmission known as e-gear is optional. Expect 0-60 times in the high-3-second range.
In terms of layout and design, the Lamborghini Gallardo is a true exotic. To keep weight down, the chassis is a composite blend of alloy stampings, extrusions and castings. And except for the traditionally opening steel doors (no scissors), the exterior is constructed of thermoplastic-formed panels.
Inside, the Gallardo's handsome furnishings sublimely marry form with function and offer a surprising level of comfort for a vehicle of this type. Credit is certainly due to the influence of parent company Audi, whose expertise with interior design has been of no small benefit since the Volkswagen Group purchased Lamborghini in the late 1990s. The impact is obvious given the precisely fitting leather and soft-touch materials.
Despite the fact that this is an exotic sports car, seating is comfortable enough to accommodate the occasional road trip. Though not as flamboyant as its extroverted exterior, the interior styling still befits a vehicle in this price range. Storage space is tight, though, with a minimal amount of room available behind the seats and in the nose-mounted trunk.
But once behind the wheel, you'll gladly leave everything behind in exchange for the sweet, sonorous symphony of its V10 at full throttle. With 500-plus horses at your command, the Gallardo is capable of spine-compressing speed in any gear. At wide-open throttle, the lusty V10 plays a veritable mechanical symphony in keeping with the car's Italian heritage. The big V10 and all-wheel-drive system add quite a bit of mass, but in return the AWD system gives Gallardo drivers extra traction when the road ahead is slick and unfamiliar. The Balboni edition, on the other hand, is a nod to the driver's tail-happy antics and can produce lurid powerslides at the slightest provocation.
Used Lamborghini Gallardo Models
The Lamborghini Gallardo debuted for 2004 in a coupe body style only. Originally, it was powered by a 493-hp version of the 5.0-liter V10. The same transmission options were available, although e-gear was improved over the years for better shift response. For 2006, the lineup expanded to include the spyder convertible with an automatic folding soft top, and a limited-production SE model featuring 520 hp, shortened gear ratios, revised suspension tuning, quickened steering, better tires, a new exhaust, special trim and two-tone color schemes. Other than the colors and trim, all the SE's mechanical improvements were made to the standard Gallardo later that model year. For '07, a change in horsepower measurement technique resulted in a lowering of hp to 512.
Produced only for 2008 was the Gallardo Superleggera. This coupe-only model was modified for even better performance. It featured 522 hp, slightly different suspension settings and an approximate 150-pound-lighter curb weight thanks to extensive use of carbon fiber and reduced feature content. It would be a rare used car find.
For 2009, the current Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 arrived along with a number of updates. Compared to those that came before, it lost 45 pounds and gained 40 additional horses as well as quicker e-gear shift times. There was also revised exterior styling, particularly around the rear fascia and taillight area, which softened the Gallardo's angularity a bit. Chassis rigidity was also stiffened. Finally, the Gallardo LP560-4 differs from the previous Gallardo from rear suspension modifications adopted from its Audi R8 platform-mate, which enhanced the Gallardo's already otherworldly cornering capabilities.
There was no Gallardo Spyder for '09, but it was reintroduced for 2010 with the same changes made the previous year for the LP560-4. That year also introduced the Valentino Balboni special edition in honor of the noted Lamborghini test driver's retirement.

cars design training video

Audi R8 Review

 

Yes, I own the keys to a smoking hot new Audi R8 and this is a review for those with the cash to burn, but there’s more to the story than that. Before I go into detail and review this goddess of a vehicle, I’ll explain how I came to own an Audi R8. Um, It’s mine till Monday, thanks to Audi and my friend Wang Chuanfuh. It’s a long story, but the fact that my birthday is July 17th (tomorrow) and having talked with Wang and explained the R8 is one of my all time favorite cars, that and possibly working with Audi’s marketing department next month for a bit all turned into what I consider, a freak of nature opportunity.

I got a call from an Audi Rep, headed over to an Audi warehouse or whatever they call it, and had a look at some of the R8’s there. The Rep sat with me in one I picked out, the one down bellow, yes, ha, die of jealousy, and talked me through the specs, as if I didn’t already know them by heart.
Then, he handed me the keys, and another rep came and gave me some paper work, said keep that with you, it’s your car till Monday, bring it back in one piece if you can. She smiled and walked away, I was left sitting in the car, keys in one hand, paper work that I didn’t even have to sign in the other…the Audi R8 was mine. All mine…

So, apart from having driven it practically none stop since I got it, and oh the joy i’ve had showing off, unbelievable, I have finally decided to type up a review, so without further delay, here’s my review on the Audi R8:
First off, the Audi R8 will make you weak at the knees, at the elbows, ankles, finger joints, at the everything. It’s the best thing Audi has produced since sliced bread, yes Audi are the ones responsible for sliced bread, don’t doubt my words, I am typing this on my macbook from the back of my (yes, my) parked R8, so i know what i’m talking about.
Let’s take a look at this beasts Performance:
Let’s look at it this way, 100kmh in 4 seconds flat with a top speed of 300kmh…yes I knew you knew it was a supercar, but do you get what those numbers mean? Earth-shattering. The speed would grow hair on a babies chest. Stick your head out the passenger window with it doing 300kmh and you will be smiling for life, whether you like it or not…and yes, I can confirm that it does around a 100kmh in 4 seconds…I had to give it a shot, what can I say. Then there’s the 4.2 v8 Lion that comes with it…really, it’s untouchable.
The handling in the R8 is second to none, and while it’s four-wheel drive, most of the insanity (power) is directed to the back wheels making it that much more of a ‘car’. You can really tell Audi has done unthinkable magic to get the Audi R8 the way it is, to handle how it does, to drive the way ti does.
The R8 is not Cool. You can’t call the R8 cool and expect to be taken seriously, if you think it’s cool you have not driven one.
The R8 is  totally ballistic bordering impracticality and by it’s own right the most outrageous car on the planet. It has it’s own little bubble filled with special awesomeness made up of angelic baby monk  farts and all things wonderful in this world, and nothing can change that.
Another thing, the interior…I tried to take a picture of the interior,  my lens cracked. You know how they say real angels are so magnificent and pure that if you were to lay your eyes on them, you’d lose your eyes, and mind, and go mental? I would live in the R8, I would eat sleep and …. yes, in the R8. Hell it’s more comfortable than my $3,700 leather sofa made from baby unicorn skin.
It’s comfortable, great vision, and surprisingly quite when you’re not unleashing hell. It’s low, so if you have a bad back, I suggest you get a back transplant, because not owning an Audi R8 simply because of a blown out back or old age is not an excuse you pussy. Sell you kids, a kidney, or both  and buy one, i’m serious.
While it’s a supercar and servicing will more than likely have to be paid in uncut diamonds, it really is worth it, and nothing to worry about if you can afford it in the first place. It’s as impressive as a Lamborghini Reventon that I recently drove, much more affordable and easily an every day car too.
Anyway, I want to thank Audi again for this experience, the car is as awesome as I thought it was the day it was brought to life. And Wang, I owe you one, thank you

2010 Lancer GTS Review

I say “Mitsubishi.” You think “Evo.” And not much else, except perhaps, “Are they still around?” The problem: not many people are willing and able to spend BMW money for a Mitsubishi, even if it does offer stellar performance. So Mitsubishi developed the Lancer Ralliart, with a detuned Evo engine, less sophisticated AWD system, and softer suspension. The TTAC conclusion: “save up for the Evo.” Want a manual transmission? Then the Ralliart isn’t an option anyway. And, with a starting price over $28,000, it’s still pricey. So, how about the Lancer GTS, with a standard manual transmission and a starting price just over $20,000?

The Lancer GTS shares the Ralliart’s and Evo’s convervative, mildly upscale styling, sans Audified grille but mit ricerific wing spoiler and 18-inch multi-spoke alloys. When introduced for the 2008 model year the Lancer was one of the more attractive cars in the segment, with more than a hint of Volvo S40. Today it looks either timeless or mildly dated, take your pick, while staking out the middle ground between the trendy, overstyled Mazda3 and the homely, understyled Subaru Impreza. Select the $150 “rotor glow” orange paint if you desire to attract eyeballs.

The Lancer’s budget-grade interior plastics and switchgear seem much more acceptable (if still behind the curve) when the window sticker is comfortably under $25,000 than when it’s over $35,000. As with the exterior, the cabin’s styling is restrained, with a hint of BMW in the instrument panel’s convex curve from door to door. Optional leather upholstery takes the interior ambiance up a notch, but no one will feel like they’re living large. The new Chevrolet Cruze demonstrates how much more is possible at this price point.

One bonus: the Sun and Sound Package’s 710-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system can rock the neighborhood, though sound clarity at “11” doesn’t seem to have been a top priority. “Punch” the large subwoofer in the trunk up to +6 to shake everything within a 100-yard radius. On the other hand, this package’s keyless access system proved finicky. I never did figure out how to make it work the first time, every time.

The driving position combines the good, the bad, and the ugly. Good: you sit a little lower than in most compact cars, so the Lancer feels sportier and less like the budget compact it is. Bad: the wing spoiler splits the rear view, and is thick enough to largely obscure following cars. (Solution: get the hatchback.) Ugly: the steering wheel (wrapped in overly slick leather) is too far away, and does not telescope. And indifferent: the front seats don’t feel substantial and provide modest lateral support. The rear seat is roomier than most in the segment, but is a little low to the floor.

With the Ralliart’s and Evo’s turbocharged engines kicking out 237 and 291 horsepower, respectively, the GTS’s 168-horsepower 2.4-liter normally aspirated four is clearly third best. But how much power do you need, really, especially when not saddled with the weight of all-wheel-drive? The 2.4 feels much more energetic than the 148-horsepower 2.0-liter in lesser Lancers, and is competitive with the 2.3 in the Mazda3 s and the 2.4 in the Kia Forte EX. There was a time not so long ago that a compact with this much power was considered quick. The 2.4 sounds a little raspy when pushed, almost as if there was a small leak in the intake, but otherwise sings a pleasantly mechanical song. Peak output nearer 200 horsepower might be nice, but as-is the engine’s powerband is usefully broad. Consequently, the five-speed manual’s relatively tall, widely spaced ratios aren’t an issue. Engine speed is about 3,500 at 80, not too bad. The 2.4 is smooth enough that around town I sometimes found myself cruising in third, and could have driven it at 5,000 rpm all day long. Shifting feels like pushing and pulling cables, but it’s easy to find the desired gear and effort is low. It’ll do, but a short throw kit is an obvious mod.

The EPA ratings of 20/28 (improved to 22/31 for 2011) are a little low for the segment. In the real world, I observed from 22 to 28 MPG depending on frequency of stops, and generally averaged 25. A very aggressive drive around a curvy test loop sunk it to 10.1, but this was more a testament to how I was driving the car.

Why bother pushing the Lancer hard enough to nearly sink MPG into the single digits? Because, despite the car’s middling specs and various shortcomings, it’s quite fun to drive. The light steering gets more communicative as it loads up. In hard turns you know exactly what’s going on at the contact patches. The steering is so quick just off center that the car initially felt unstable at highway speeds, but I soon got used to it. There’s a fair amount of roll—some will find the suspension too soft—but no untoward body motions. The Lancer doesn’t feel quite as precise and tied down as the Mazda3, but it’s close. The stability control cuts in a little too early to rein in understeer (which isn’t excessive). The system is unobtrusive—an idiot light is often the only obvious indication that it has intervened—but turning it off permits higher cornering speeds with little risk. The Lancer’s handling remains thoroughly progressive and predictable right up to the limit. The Dunlop SP Sport 5000Ms squeal quietly, so they won’t draw undue attention.

NVH is about average—for 2008. So there’s enough wind and road noise, especially at higher speeds, to make it evident that you’re not in a premium car. The ride is a little thumpy, mostly due to the low profile tires, but isn’t harsh. For maximizing handling short of killing the ride, the tuning is about right.

Ultimately, the Mitsubishi Lancer GTS is more than the sum of its parts. The specs aren’t impressive. The interior and NVH, even less so. And yet it vies with the Mazda3 as the segment’s most enjoyable car to drive. By the end of the week, it felt like a car I’d been driving forever—in a good way. The loaded-up price of $23,000 seems a bit steep, even if it does get you the sunroof, leather, Rockford audio, and various uplevel electronic features. But with generous sales incentives or as a not-much-sought-after used car, and with a 5/60 standard warranty (plus 10/10 on the powertrain for the first owner), the Lancer GTS could be a great buy for the enthusiast on a budget who doesn’t want to drive what everyone else is driving.