Thanks for the welcome.
The power difference is noticeable coming from an all wheel drive, turbo, 237 horsepower /253 torque on sport suspension (I wasn't rolling around in those stock power specs either, which pushed the HP and TQ into EVO territory.)
But I will say that the 2.0 doesn't feel like it truly possesses the low numbered performance specs that it has on paper. Honda did a very good job modifying what they could so that the drive doesn't feel like the economy car from where our 2.0's are based from. I basically had a grin on my face when I stepped on it during the test drive and wondered how all reviewers pitted this car as too slow. I would say acceleration is adequate. I've driven an actual SLOW car, and this is nothing to complain about.
I actually was looking at the 2.5 as I had owned a Civic SI in the past but having a manual at this point in time would be unwise for my family. I've heard nothing but great things about the 2.5 ILX as far as performance and driver feel and engagement.
The trade off was absolutely worth it. With the Lancer, it's attention from all the wrong people. Mainly police and every immature driver who wants to street race. I grew tired of it. Mitsubishi is not know for their build quality and amenities either (exterior paint is horrible, less comforts than a true economy car). I could tell the focus was all performance and my family could as well.
I think it's the balance that caught me with the ILX. The outer appearance is just a hint aggressive while maintaining a mature flow (attention from adults). The interior isn't ballin' out of control luxury but I can certainly say it's not an economy car. The performance (even in the much criticized 2.0) to me, is far from boring and I think they did a great job adding a touch of sportiness to an otherwise good looking family hauler.
Don't even get me started on the MPG... needless to say, I think this car will be a keeper for a long, long, time.