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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  Great car for what it is - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By StangFan247 - January 6 - 10:06 pm

  Im really power-hungry when it comes to cars, but I got this to commute back and forth to school and work while Im saving up for a Mustang. It is a very reliable car with great gas mileage. Of course, gas mileage and horsepower are inversely related, so I dont expect a thrill ride when I punch it. However, the little 2.0 4-cylinder does have some pep to it, and has great throttle response. (It also does some nice donuts for front wheel drive :-D). It has solid handling (impressive for economic tires and stock suspension). It tracks very well on the highway, even in the rain. The brakes are also very responsive. And even being 6-feet tall, I easily found my sweet spot in the driver seat.

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  Well Done - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Jasper - January 6 - 10:00 am

  Exterior and Interior are great for the price - if you compare to the Jetta - then you will be depressed, but compared to the Civic - coupled with the savings - winner every time. The engine provides just what us econo shoppers are looking for - dependable, solid and pretty quick around the corners! Very happy with the purchase

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  Just to let you know about some issues... - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By fdlbym - January 3 - 12:13 am

  In a nut shell, if youre not impressed with the exterior design, just dont spent time looking at this one. Mileage is okay but not the best (low thirties on highway). Handling is good for its class but you can find other cars handles as good if not better (Mazda3). Leg room in second row is one of the best but is it that important? When it comes to shortfalls the list is longer; Engine noise is something to pay attention. Interior plastics are not better than what you would find on vacuum cleaner (similar to previous generation US cars). Together with weak engine, CVT makes you feel dead.

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  2005 Mitsubishi Lancer - 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Tom Pounds - January 1 - 2:36 am

  My girlfriend has a 2003 Lancer and had no problems with excellent reliability. So I bought my 2005 and now I am very happy.

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  Paid 2 much, my fault - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By K.M. - December 28 - 10:00 am

  This is my 1st new car and I love to drive it. I realize now that I paid too much for not getting all the options. Expensive lesson learned. I dont think Id buy a brand new car again.

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  Good riddance - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By LVnative - December 26 - 7:03 am

  Could not be happier its gone! The most underpowered vehicle I have ever owned; might as well mow the lawn. This car is a joke; would not buy again; would not recommend to anyone; STAY AWAY FROM THIS CAR. Getting rid of this car was the best thing I did! Not comfortable, VERY underpowered!

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  I WOULD HAVE PAID ANOTHER $5000 - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By njcontreraz - December 12 - 3:56 am

  I think this is a fine buy for anyone looking at value. Mitsubishi has to be one of the most underrated automakers. The Lancer has great pickup, good handling in the snow, and a smooth ride all around. I looked around and did a lot of research on other cars in this class (including some above) and this won by a mile as far as price and value. Give it a drive and you will be convinced.

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  lancer - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By leeannbarry - December 2 - 2:00 am

  This is the best car Ive ever owned. Ive owned 14 cars in the last 6 years. Ive also couped it up with a a lot of accessories to the car, put a big stereo in my c

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  I love my Lancer - 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By emmons11 - December 2 - 12:17 am

  I am a 60yr old man and i have owned many many cars and trucks in my day.The MITSUBISHI LANCER is the best of all of them.I like to drive again,thanks to the Lancer!the handling, ride, fun to drive,good mpg,room,10yr 100,000 powertrain,5yr 60,000 bumper to bumper.how can you go wrong?this car is for young and old plus a great family car to.please drive one and see for yourself.

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  Mitsubishi Lancer O-Z Rally - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By steve-o - November 19 - 4:46 pm

  This car has great handling, fun to drive. I beat the heck out of this thing, taking hard bumps, flying over train tracks, fast turns, and it takes it all in stride. The intererior is great. With a little wax the paint still looks amazing. It gets good gas mileage, so far not a single problem.