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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  Most reliable I have ever owned - 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Alan - October 14 - 10:00 am

  So here is the deal. I have had a slew of other cars and non of them can match up to the reliability and fuel mileage of this car. I have owned it for about 3 years and I have only had to do the basic maintenance stuff (Brakes, tires etc). I also get 38 MPG at 65 mph on the highway and about 30-32 around town. Not sure why anyone who wants a small car would spend thousands more on a civic or corolla when this car is just as good or better in some regards.

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  So far so good - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By NBolay - October 10 - 2:00 am

  Ive been driving the OZ for 1.5 months now and I am impressed. Ive yet to achieve the suggested fuel economy, but I drive at high revs. and have a rooftop bike-rack (lots of drag). Space is accomodating, style works great for me, and handling is well above average. Two 400mile road trips so far and still feels like new. Last attempt was against high winds, but 105mph is not much for a top speed, but its not like I get to drive that fast anyway.

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  driving in the snow - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By ronny2 - October 4 - 8:36 am

  I was told at the sale of the 2008 Lancer that it would be "fine" in the snow. Much to my dismay, it was completely the opposite. I first discovered just how scary this car was on a snow covered slight uphill driveway when the whole front end slid to the right! There was absolutely no traction from the tires and when I called the dealership, they suggested I get snow tires to the tune of $1300. They did offer to mount/balance them at a discount, however I was very disappointed. I was unable to drive my NEW car during predicted snowstorms and when I got caught in a few "dustings", I was unable to get up my driveway and once barely made it down the road! Has anyone used snow tires? Did it work

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  Water in Dash - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By ADRIENNE - October 4 - 2:00 am

  I was disappointed when poor manufacturing or a design flaw caused substantial water to accumulate in the dash of the car. When I brought it to the dealerships attention, the problem was resolved quickly and to my satisfaction. I purchased my car in October of 2002 and the water had been accumulating the whole time I owned the car. It was only after there had been a torrential rain and I heard what sounded like a wave pool in my dash that I knew something was wrong. The water started seeping onto the floor of the passengers side of the car because there was so much water in the dash.

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  Like any other car... - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By gnnusa - October 4 - 2:00 am

  ...the Lancer 2003 has its own pluses and minuses. The only two things that make this great car an average car are - power and fuel economy. The display of power especially with auto- tran is abysmal. Fuel economy as compared to Honda Civic or even my old Saturn is poor.

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  great car - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By tubescreamer - September 30 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car because i was looking for a somewhat affordable, compact, reliable, yet sporty car. This car fit all those catagories for me. It is sportier than a honda civic, and offers a better warranty. It is not as extreme as the EVO, but it still has a sporty feel. So far I have averaged 24-26mpg on the first 3 tanks of gas. bottom line: Fun to drive. =)

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  Great Car - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By addydev - September 30 - 10:00 am

  These are great cars very fun to drive. A little sporty and yet still a good family car. If you want something to drive the back roads with this is your car. This is one of the safest cars I have ever driven. I was rear ended by a BMW at a light 2 weeks ago he was doing 45 mph when he hit me and we walked away. The car is being fixed and I cant wait to get it back.

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  love it - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By trol1374 - September 25 - 4:16 pm

  I knew about the low armrest in center and on door. However, I still loved the car. Nice sporty look and feel. The car drives great. The gas mileage could be slightly better, but all is still good. The GTS vs the ES drive is night and day. The ES motor feels like it is winding up and going to snap, the GTS sounds great while accelerating. If you get that sweet spot on where to rest your arm, then you will enjoy the car. Knobs are well laid out.

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  Great for the money - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By jeffmiller32 - September 20 - 3:23 pm

  I bought this car brand new. It drives great. I have put over 40,000 miles on it in the last 3 years and have not had any issues with it. I have done regular oil changes, and I recently changed the pads, other than that it runs great. We take it on road trips quite often, we can fit four 6 tall guys comfortably. Although there is zero room for luggage because I have to 10" subs and two amps back there. Sometimes the ride is rough, but right after I got it, I put 18"s on it. It handles great, but on older freeways and roads it is a bit bumpy. The interior design is practical,gas milage is adaquate. It is a great car for the money. The styling is modern. Great value for the money.

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  awesome car - 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By davo yoyo - September 18 - 10:00 am

  i just got car today great sofar.fun to drive very comfortable.very economic recommend it to any one.