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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  Better than I thought - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Fer - May 19 - 2:00 am

  Very good fuel economy. Easy to drive and comes with a powerfull enough engine. Transmission is very smooth. Its a little bit noisy at high speed. Comes with many options. Excellent financing options plus a 3 year bumper to bumper.

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  Great car - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By murky - May 18 - 7:26 am

  I got into a wreck in this vehicle in the mountains of Virginia, and I must say, 10+ on crash rating. Completely protected me, AND the front end absorbed so much of the impact, that beyond the front fenders there was NO damage! Unfortunately, it was deemed totaled, but this car saved me in an accident.

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  Fuel Milage - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By kleo84 - May 17 - 3:03 pm

  I disagree with the other people saying the fuel mileage is bad. i drove this car from Kileen, Texas to Colorado Springs and averaged around 33-35mpg!!! Both trips. The only thing I dont really like about the base models is the HP. It shoulda been upped a little compared to the newer 4cyl. N/A cars out there, but nice car looks mean in the front.

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  Just another Car - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By bigspender - May 14 - 10:00 am

  OK car. Drives ok and handles nice. No power unless someone gets out and pushes. They are very proud of it as they MSRP the o-Z at 18,000 and the dealer tries to sell $2000.00 more of scotch gaurd and pin strip.

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  Good Car, but Kinda Boring! - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By E-Bar - May 5 - 12:10 am

  Ive had nothing but luck with my Lancer OZ, however after three years I am kinda bored with it. It gets great gas mileage (27-33 mpg) and has had no mechanical problems. It does eat tires and front brakes, I dont drive out of control or use heavy breaks. I live in the country and dont do a lot of stop and go driving. I wish that I had more room to haul things and passenger room. I am 510", however having somewhat tall people in my car is a problem. For a good little commuter this is a perfect car. For someone looking to start a life and a family you may want to keep looking.

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  Almost 3 years going ...thats a record - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By loanshark_08 - April 28 - 5:19 pm

  I must say this car is worth my money so far. Most American cars I buy are usually in the shop more than I get to drive then trade them in and become upside down. In July it will be year 3 and that is the longest I have owned a car. This car gets me all over Texas as well as a daily commuter. The only negative I can say is it randomly wont start but then will fire right up. I thought it was a fuel filter but much to my surprise this car only has one in the fuel pump in the gas tank? Upgraded the sound system and w/ Bluetooth makes it one awesome lil car.

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  OZ to RALLIART - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By lkwdkuraj02 - April 26 - 2:00 am

  I recently purchased a 2003 OZ, Lightning Yellow....enjoyed the car since day one....went in to get something fixed and walked out (after 5 hours) with a 2004 Ralliart.....I didnt even make a payment on the OZ....the Ralliart is so much FUN...the performance is excellent, handling is tight and solid, sportier clutch and short shift kit cant be any more of a joy to play with...

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  Watch for the heater/air switch - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By jen - April 26 - 1:53 am

  I seen a review above me about the heater knob not turning to air conditioning. So I decided to chime in. I had the same issue and so did all 3 of my friends who own the same year lancer. Never on recall and they refused to fix it. 3k was the estimate. I traded it in this year got 2,200 trade because of the knob. It also had issues with the timing belt I had to replace it 2xs under 100k. Transmission started slipping at 90k. Lighted mirror cover broke off. Dont let me deter you. Im sure some of that wear and tear was my fault. Light bulbs burned out quite often watch for water under hood. Drives beautifully in snow. Drove through snow storm, 1 ft deep snow and icy wipers and all.

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  The Lancer is Fun to Drive! - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Terrynconnct01 - April 24 - 12:13 am

  The Lancer met all expectations; (except no leather), great fuel economy, some of the highest emission standards, great handling, especially for New England roads.

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  awesome - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By bpanther - April 21 - 2:00 am

  i wanted a sports car and couldnt affod it so i got my 04 O Z Rally and i have no regrets. I love my car. its very comfortable. Perfect for anyone, young, family anything.If you want a good car get the lancer.