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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  LANCER LOVER - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By KEN K - August 29 - 2:00 am

  I TEST DROVE CIVIC, PROTEGE AND COROLLA FIRST. LANCER IS THE BEST COMBINATION 0F BUILD QUALITY, SMOOTH RIDE, GOOD HANDLING AND POWER. LANCER IS ALSO THE QUIETEST CAR BY FAR!

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  Very Happy Owner - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Matt in Ohio - August 27 - 4:26 pm

  This is my first new car, and I am extremely happy with my decision. Chose this over Scion tC and Honda Si because I love the sharp edges and corners of the Lancer, not to mention the extra room inside. Went with the sun and sound package with the nav system. Everyone is intrigued by the FAST Key and stereo system. Fun to drive in either automatic or with the paddle shifters. I only wish there was some more power, but it is definitely sufficient.

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  Happy with my Lancer! - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By DR4eva - August 26 - 2:00 am

  I bought a second hand Lancer ES from Dixie Mitsubishi for a great deal and "AS IS". Few things I had to fix were the tie rod, the lower bumper had a crack probably from a speedbump, new tires, and new brake pads.. nothing out of the ordinary! Overall the ride is very smooth and humble. It doesnt roar like a mustang but it is quick to respond and drives very nice. My dad was equally impressed with the quality of parts (he works on our cars a lot) and I will buy Mitsubishi again!

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  09 GTS 2.4l Lancer with 5 spd is AWESOME! - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Mike - August 22 - 9:46 pm

  I have owned the car for about a month now. I got the 5spd manual with the sun/sound package and the navigation. I love the car so far. It has all the technology and features I wanted in a car. I was considering used BMWs, audis, acuras, etc. but when it comes down to it, this is a much more unique car and very fun to drive. I love that all the features and technology will last me at least 4 years of enjoyment while I drive the car too and from work. Some of those used BMWs didnt even have ipod hookups, i cant deal with that, lol. Anyways this is a sick car and is a blast to drive. Great warranty and overall good deal when you compare run of the mill cars like the civic and corolla

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  Lancer Oz edition - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By agrieb - August 22 - 2:00 am

  This is a great little car that has great gas mileage quality interior and feels like a much more expensive vehicle! It also can take a crash very well as I found out recently! A much larger car rammed my front passenger side wheel/fender and I was surprised how well the car took the hit! Highly recommend for anyone looking for a nice comfortable car without giving up your entire paycheck!

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  Between the Corolla and the Camry...Perfect - 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By GREG BARLOW - August 17 - 8:32 am

  This is our 3rd Lancer in the family and not the last. 26 mpg on mountain roads and the 2.0 ltr has power to spare as peepy as my wifes AWC 2.4 ltr Lancer. I dont like the new front bumper design but can live with that. Paint with Mitsubishi has always been an issue so you must stay on top of the waxing. If you step up and pay a little more from the 5spd stick you get lots of extras. I really liked my wifes 2015 but I love my 2016. We will drive these for 10 yrs and then pass them to the grandkids. Keep the oil changed and the servicing up to date and these will go the distance not to mention they have timing chains not belts which have to changed out and thats not cheap. We paid $15500 which included destination (which is a bs charge but they wont waive it) plus tax and lic.

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  Lot of car for the money - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Stcharlesguy - August 16 - 10:50 am

  What a great car!! I cant say enough about it!! i was worried when i bought it, going from an Infiniti to a Mitsu. Boy was i wrong. Much quicker response, funner to driver, more sportier. Dont let the 2.0L engine scare you, this thing is flying down the road before you know it. The CVT really makes that possible! I Have the fully loaded GTS with nav. Its ridiculous how many options you get for such a small price. I paid twice as much for my Infiniti and got a lot less.

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  Great Car - 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Jasidus - August 15 - 9:16 pm

  This car is an absolute blast to drive. It performs pretty well, one of the best in its class. The engine is very good with lots of torque. The handling and suspension give this car a very sporty feel. The quality and design of the interior are also very good. It was sort of an impulse buy, but I have no regrets.

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  The best looking car for under $35 K - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By john bell - August 7 - 5:23 pm

  It looks great, has a lot of features for the price but it really really needs more power!! The engine is small and very noisy! Every time you try to accelerate from a traffic stop or even worse, at the toll booth the poor engine screams. Except for this, the car is really great. The CVT is nice, the paddle shifters are even nicer and in my opinion the next better looking car on the road is in the $35/40k zone . The Lancer is really a head-turner, stylish, sporty, remarkable!

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  Lancers Kick Ass!! - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Sweet Lancer Chick - August 6 - 10:00 am

  I took my Lancer to California and back, it was reliable and got excellent gas mileage, averaging about 38 mpg/350 mile to a tank, and a tank of gas only cost about $20. It cost me $90 to get there. Thats 15 hours NONSTOP driving! If you just happen to be looking for a good looking, but economical car, I think youll be pleased with the Misubishi Lancer. If you have any questions about the above info, please feel free to email me.. SweetLancerChick@wmconnect.com Thanks! Crystal W.