In the driveway: 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer SE

In the driveway this week is the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer SE, which comes with AWC (that's all-wheel control), Mitsubishi's AWD system. Until recently, I didn't even know this car was available with AWD but without a turbo. I thought you either got a FWD Lancer or a turbocharged AWD Lancer.

I happen to think this Lancer, with its side skirts, clean lines, and attractive wheels, is a sharp-looking sedan. It's got a 2.4-liter engine mated to a CVT, but acceleration is better than I would've expected. Like many Mitsubishis of late, some of the interior bits are down right cheap, such as the climate control dials and centers (which you push for A/C). Also, it's got Bluetooth controls on the steering wheel, but it isn't hooked up. Odd. But so far, it's quite decent, sans some rattles here and there, especially when the stereo is turned up.

Stay tuned.