The Mitsubishi Lancer has been named a 2008 Coolest New Car Under $18,000 by the expert editors at Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. With versatility and technology becoming growing trends in the under-$18,000 segment, the next-generation 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer offers consumers an economic entry-level package that combines rally-inspired performance and handling features with cutting-edge in-car technology.

In choosing the 2008 list of Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000, the kbb.com editors used the same set of criteria that many consumers use in examining this category: safety, fuel economy, interior size, comfort, technology, the vehicle's fun-to-drive-factor, as well as the decidedly subjective "cool" factor. Kbb.com's editorial staff commented:

"The Mitsubishi Lancer's aggressive, rally-inspired looks belie a starting price of less than $15,000. The low cost of entry will leave many buyers with enough extra cash to add cool options like a hard-drive navigation system, an impressive premium audio system or perhaps a stylish spoiler."

The Mitsubishi Lancer is available in three levels of trim and driving dynamics - DE, ES and the sport-tuned GTS - starting at a price of $13,990. For the 2009 model year, the GTS is equipped with a new 2.4-liter 168-hp aluminum DOHC MIVEC 4-cylinder engine. For more information about the Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000, visit www.kbb.com/coolcars08.