Lancer Ralliart priced at $26,490

The long-awaited Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart will arrive at U.S. dealerships with a base price of $26,490. Essentially a toned down and less powerful EVO X, the Lancer Ralliart comes equipped with a 237 HP 2.0-liter turbo engine teamed exclusively with a twin-clutch semi-auto transmission and a full-time 4WD driveline featuring Mitsubishi's Active Center Differential (ACD) unit. The Lancer Ralliart is also equipped with a front helical and rear mechanical limited slip differentials, standard Active Stability Control (ASC) with Traction Control (TCL) and 18-inch alloy wheels with 215/45 R18 Yokohama ADVAN summer tires. -Continued

Just for reference, the outgoing 2008 Impreza WRX Sedan 224HP is priced from $24,350 (see the 2009 WRX 265 HP here) while the Ralliart’s bigger brother, the 291HP EVO X, from $32,990.

Lancer Ralliart buyers can also opt for the RECARO Sport Package which costs $2,750. The package adds Xenon HID headlamps, 650 watt Rockford Fosgate, Sirius Satellite Radio with 6-months subscription and RECARO front sport seats found on the Lancer Evolution GSR. A new 40-GB HDD navigation system is also available as either a port-installed option or as a dealer accessory.

I wonder what sticker prices will look like if all 08 WRXs I looked at were >$27K.