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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  I love my car! - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By wocogirl - March 29 - 10:00 am

  I love everything about my car. The best part of it is the gas mileage I get. My friends and family who have small cars as well are jealous that even with incredibly high gas prices (about $1.93)I am still paying under $20 to fill my whole tank. My car has better pick up than others in its class and has made me more confident in the reliability of my car. When I test drove the Ford Focus, I wasnt sure how reliable it would be a few years down the road, but with the Lancer, I knew it was a good car. I would be here forever telling you about all the reasons why I love my car. I highly recommend getting one!

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  Amazing - 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Sebastien - March 3 - 4:46 pm

  I used to have a 2003 oz rally and I decided to change it for 2006 ralliart. I completely fell in love with this car when I test drove it. I bought it with low profile wide tires and it is incredible how I could turn corners at high speed. The acceleration is pretty good. I got it up to 220km/h without any problems. If you are looking for a fun to drive or a useful car dont look anywhere else the 2006 ralliart has what you need.

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  You Get What You Pay For - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Apple Juice - February 28 - 12:10 pm

  So I got this car a few months ago, and for the price its the best deal, but you are getting what you are paying for. Dont expect this car to be more than what it is, because for buying it used for about $11,000, its basically an upgraded Honda Civic. You basically feel like you are driving a..cheap sports car. Theres nothing to it, its just a standard car.

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  Performance - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By John Beecher - February 8 - 10:00 am

  This is a great car. I bought it used from a dealership because the previous owner never made payments on it. Like its big brother, the Evo, it can beat the pants off of almost anything straight out of the box. It is a great car and I highly recommend it.

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  Great value for money, best kept secret! - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By geobraun - February 7 - 12:26 pm

  This car has to be the best kept secret in america. I bought the GTS with manual trans. This car has the looks and prestige of an Acura TL for many many thousands less, 650 watt stereo, 30 gig hard drive to store cds, navigation that is able to play DVDs! This is my third Mitsubishi vehicle, one of which I retired after 328,000 miles!

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  Mitsu - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Eddie - January 30 - 6:30 pm

  Car runs great. Shouldve gotten the GTS since it has more power than the ES- Sport, but there is plenty of space between the engine and the firewall to add a few extra horses under the hood.

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  Lancer - 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Tariq - January 15 - 2:10 pm

  I think that the Mitsubishi Lancer is definitely one of the most underrated cars on the market. It is a lively performer. Its looks are a bit different as well, which sets it apart from the others vehicles.

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  I love this car!! - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By ramona - January 12 - 10:00 am

  Just bought this car and love it!! I bought the 5 speed, and am having a great time driving it. It really is responsive, and the interior has features I wouldnt expect at such a price.

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  Positive experience - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By LYN TRAVIS - January 12 - 2:00 am

  After driving what seemed like every car in town, I bought the OZ Lancer because of its great combination of sporty style and pure practicality. At 6 foot 2 inches tall, I found the interior to fit better than most of the competition. styling is sporty without being to over the top at least in white. The interior is very functional and sporty with all the necessary amenities. This car handles well and has really good ride. The adaptive automatic transmission does a great job of agreeing with your driving style.I would probably not buy this car if you are looking for real performance car but if your looking for a little pizazz without giving up any practicality, this is the car.

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  Great Car - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Barry - January 11 - 1:33 pm

  I bought my lancer es used for $8,000 with 42,000 miles on it and have put another 10,000 miles on it. I have not had a single problem with it and I get about 28 mpg. Its been a great car and I put about $1,000 worth of parts into it and now its awesome! People now think Im driving a luxury car because I put nice custom leather seat covers on it, halogen headlights, a spoiler, new deck, etc. Next, I want a turbocharger and some nice wheels, and itll be perfect. I love how you dont see too many of these cars on the road too. Its also fun to drive and has good traction for a econosedan.