Overview & Reviews

The original Mitsubishi Lancer never exactly blew us away. It was underpowered and not particularly entertaining to drive, its interior was simply OK and its styling was dull to boot. The second-generation Lancer has corrected two of those problems, especially with its aggressive new styling featuring a "shark nose" fascia. It's also kind of fun to drive, thanks to solid handling dynamics and (apart from the base engine) peppy engine choices.

All in all, count the Lancer as one model that has greatly improved from generation to generation. However, compared to more recently redesigned compact sedans, the Lancer's refinement, interior quality and fuel economy trail considerably. While the latest Lancer is an attractive, sporty sedan, we suggest thoroughly looking around at its many competitors.

Current Mitsubishi Lancer
Mitsubishi's stylish compact sedan is offered in DE, ES, SE, GT and Ralliart trims. The Sportback body style and high-performance Evolution are reviewed separately.

The two lower trims are front-wheel drive and powered by a 148-horsepower (143 hp in California-emissions-level states) inline-4. The all-wheel-drive SE and front-wheel-drive GT get a 2.4-liter 168-hp four. Should that not be enough, there is the Ralliart, which offers a 237-hp turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on all but the Ralliart, while Mitsubishi's continuously variable transmission (CVT) is optional (except on Ralliart). The Ralliart comes with a quick-witted automated-clutch manual transmission.

In reviews of the Mitsubishi Lancer, we've been impressed with its secure handling, sporty styling and high-tech optional features. The Rockford Fosgate hard-drive-equipped audio system drew particularly high praise. On the downside, we've found the Lancer's base four-cylinder rather lacking in both power and refinement, and the CVT does nothing to help the situation -- in fact, we feel it saps power from the engine. We would therefore suggest sticking with the five-speed manual transmission or going with a GT, though fuel economy isn't impressive with any model. The Lancer's cabin also falls short of the segment leaders in terms of materials quality and lacks a telescoping steering wheel, which makes the car uncomfortable for many tall drivers.

Used Mitsubishi Lancer Models
The current Lancer generation dates back to the 2008 model year. Originally, only DE, ES and GTS trims were offered and all came with the base four-cylinder listed at 152 hp until 2011. The GTS was similar to the current car's GT, but it possessed a sport-tuned suspension. The 2.4-liter engine and the Ralliart showed up for '09. Stability control was available only on the Ralliart until 2010, when it became standard across the board along with four-wheel antilock brakes. ABS had previously been optional on the DE (that trim switched to four-wheel discs for 2010, but then reverted back to drums a year later). Some revised exterior and interior styling for certain trims and standard power door locks also showed up for 2010. The SE trim was new for 2012.

The first Mitsubishi Lancer was launched for the 2002 model year as a replacement for the Mirage sedan. It originally came in three trim levels: ES, O-Z Rally and LS. The ES came with a fine list of standard features, such as power accessories, a CD player and air-conditioning. The O-Z Rally trim offered a sportier look thanks to 15-inch O-Z alloy wheels and special interior trim upgrades. The LS distinguished itself with cruise control, ABS (not offered as an option on the ES or O-Z Rally) and remote keyless entry. All trims came with the 120-hp 2.0-liter engine and a five-speed manual. A four-speed automatic was standard on the LS and available as an option in the other two models.

Running changes included the 2004 debut of the Lancer Ralliart trim level, which boasted a 162-hp 2.4-liter engine, ABS, alloy wheels, sport exhaust and a sport-tuned suspension. Ralliart sedans came standard with a five-speed manual transmission. That year, Mitsubishi also introduced the Lancer Sportback wagon, available in LS or Ralliart trim. The 162-hp engine powered both wagon trim levels, but the Sportback was only available with a four-speed automatic. Mitsubishi discontinued the Lancer LS and both Sportback models in 2005. In 2006, the Lancer SE, featuring a sunroof, six audio speakers, cruise control and remote keyless entry, was introduced to freshen up the lineup.

In road tests, our editors found this Mitsubishi Lancer comfortable, though not especially fun to drive. Its power and performance weren't exactly overwhelming. But its spacious interior, particularly for rear passengers, and comfortable ride might appeal to those looking for a pleasant and roomy sedan at a decent price. The sport-tuned Lancer Ralliart, with its more powerful engine and tighter suspension, offers higher performance at an affordable price, making it the best choice of this Lancer generation.

Previous to the Lancer, Mitsubishi's small-car offering was the Mirage.

User Reviews:

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  2008 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Adam S. - May 25 - 10:40 am

  The car has decent room w/ comfortable seats for long trips (folding in the rear 4 more cargo space). It has great features like the GPS, hands free Bluetooth, 650W stereo w/ the 30GB hard disk w/ Sirius and especially the Fast Key! The CVT is really smooth and the paddle shifting is fun w/its 6 dedicated gears. The 2.0 engine is surprisingly peppy, though just not off the line. Mileage has been much better than I expected w/ 33-40+MPG doing 55-65 mph on the highway and no less than 26+ around town. Overall ride is well controlled & neve r harsh. Handling is really fun in this car and the brakes are also really good.

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  Should you buy it - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By TONYSSAM - May 22 - 1:40 am

  The lancer drives very well. Its as quiet as any of its competitors, as corolla, etc. It soaks up most of the bumps with minimum effect in the passenger car. Its engine, a dohc with Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing and its continuously variable transmission both work to make the ride pleasant. Ive had two prior generation lancers and they all were highly reliable, with minimum repairs and breakdowns under severe use. The car is very safe and sturdy - uses very strong steel. The only flaw is that the epa fuel economy is already below its competitors and below the prior generation lancer 2007. And when you drive it - it seems like its below the epa estimates also - especially city.

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  Lets remeber what kind of car this is! - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By aka0014 - May 21 - 10:00 am

  I paid 15,500 for my O-Z (with the $500 college rebate=$15,000). What Civic, Focus, Sentra, and/or Corrolla can you get at that price with the 0-Zs extras and all around looks. Secondly, the car is a compact car. If you add more horsepower then it loses its purpose-a good, fun, affordable, attractive fuel efficient car. Of course we all want more horses under that hood. So just order the parts and put it in-problem solved! This car is totally worth the money and then some. Compare it to the top three in its class, and youll see how it by far surpasses the exterior/interior design and amenities that lack in its competitors for the same price.

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  Great upgrade from OZ Rally... - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Brian8879 - May 16 - 2:00 am

  I drive 110 miles, five days a week to work--having a fun to drive car is an absolutely necessity. I previously owned a 2002 Lancer OZ Rally and was very happy with it, except in two key areas--engine performance and braking. I just purchased a 2004 Lancer Ralliart and could not be happier. The engine provides quick response from a dead stop and while on the road. As for braking, the stops are short and solid--the vehicle remains stable and straight. All in all, I am extremely pleased with the vehicle. Those of you who like the Lancer, but require more power, the Ralliart is the choice.

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  Excellent Choice! - 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Rafael - May 4 - 11:56 am

  I love Mitsubishi cars. My previous car was a 98 Mirage (original owner). I had that car for 9 years and 135k miles and never left me stranded. Awesome little car. I traded in for a new Lancer SE and I couldnt be happier. The Lancer SE has everything i could ask for. The car is so comfortable. Engine is quiet and refined. Fuel economy is good for the class. Fit and finish is excellent. Stereo sounds great. Sun roof and power everything seals the deal for me! I highly recommend the Lancer to anybody looking for a compact car with lots of room and excellent reliability.

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  Excellent Car - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By scopla - May 2 - 2:00 am

  I just bought a Lancer O-Z 5 speed and Im very impressed with it. And for everyone who says the mirage has power and the lancer doesnt, check the specs. Its the same engine!

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  Good Car/Good Value - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By CK8408 - April 27 - 12:03 pm

  I purchased this car on April 30th as my first new car after graduating college. I considered the Subaru Impreza and Mazda 3 but was blown away by the price, standard features, and performance of the Lancer. The 5 speed is fun and smooth. The engine could have more power, but with average 28-30 mpg I cant complain. Build quality seems to be great so far. The ES comes standard with many nice features such as steering wheel mounted audio controls and alloy wheels. You dont need to spend a lot of money to get a great looking Lancer. The ES comes standard with many great features. Sure there are always improvements, but for the price its hard to beat. I highly recommend it.

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  Value and Quality - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By mybusiness942003 - April 3 - 2:00 am

  I have been out in the market lookin for a compact sedan for 4 weeks.Although there are a number of nice cars out there but I think lancer offers the best value for money.Toyotas and honda get pretty heavy on the pocket if u go for better options.

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  good car - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By pearlqueen - April 3 - 2:00 am

  I have had my car for 1.5 years so far and it starts every morning.Its good on gas and it is fairly comfortable.it can merge on the interstate,but you have to push the gas pedal hard to get it into overdrive.But all in all its a good little car for going back and forth to work and to run errands.

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  Great car - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Allen Fort - April 1 - 6:33 pm

  Wow!! What is there not to say about this car. Ive had it for almost a year and already put 16k on the thing. I cant leave it parked in the driveway, its just to sexy for that. It definitely needs to be opened up to get best results. I have the fully loaded GTS, has nav, blue-tooth, great system and dont forget the paddle shifters. The new Lancer gets great gas mileage and is extremely fun to drive. I do enjoy the keyless entry, however, dont leave the car on and take the remote out too many times, soon it will tell you the key is missing even though its not. This car is definitely a "Head Turner".