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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  It is average, just having issues - 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Timothy Mellender - April 10 - 6:04 am

  I bought my 2013 Lancer a year and a half ago and about 6 months in I start having issues with my car saying it is overheating and kicking into safety mode, where it slows my car down until it comes to a complete stop and then it cools down, yet my temperature gauge sits halfway like normal every time, and Ive taken my car to4 different mechanics over the past year and they all say nothing is wrong with my car. Even a Mitsubishi dealership mechanic said the same thing, yet my car still continues to have this issue. I would give this car a 4+ star rating but unfortunately I cannot because there is something wrong with my car yet nobody seems to know what it is.

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  Awesome, dependable car - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Greg - April 9 - 3:36 pm

  Took a chance when I brought this car brand new in 2001, very much a Honda/Toyota lover because of their reliability. I have been more than happy with this car - very little has gone wrong with it and I am almost at 197,000 miles!!! This thing drives great, with so many miles still gets around 35 mpg!!! When this car finally dies I will most likely get another Mitsubishi.

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  Awesome - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Me - April 8 - 2:33 am

  Bought the car yesterday, didnt want a dull looking family sedan. Wow, turns heads, stereo and navi is awesome. Black with tint and all options. Love it.

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  Great Car - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Chris - April 8 - 12:03 am

  Ive had the car for about 3 weeks now and could not be happier. Was able to get the 0% financing promo too, which saved me thousands over the term of the loan. The car handles great and is just fun to drive. I highly recommend the manual transmission, its smooth hydraulic clutch and short throw shifts really add some fun to the daily drives to work. Also the appearance package is a must, it gives the car a great aggressive look. The leather wrapped steering wheel has a great feel and quality to it. I think there is plenty of pickup to the 2.0. I passed on the GTS because of the 18in rims and performance tires. I live in NY I didnt want to have to buy snow tires and switch them on every year.

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  Pros for Lancer - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By kipsoin - March 26 - 2:00 am

  I traded my 2002 Lancer OZ for the Ralliart Sedan. Excellent ride and reliability. Would have preferred the Sportback but diddnt come with Manual Transmission. My other car is a BMW 323i, Love the Ralliart for its nimbleness and fast take offs. Not great at high speeds but bests 90% of Mid size cars

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  09 Lancer sports - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Jldixon - March 20 - 11:03 pm

  Very dependable,low maintenance and average interior. Has great reliability. Ownership since new.

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  A Phenominal Value for the $ (tempered) - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By BC - March 20 - 9:36 pm

  This is an amazing car for what it is. Value and character. For one of the few AWD cars on the market with a straight 4 and the turbo provides amazing power from 20-120+mph and is a dead accurate vehicle. Shifts are precise, engine is solid, turbo is ample. Just a true joy to drive when you are in the mood. However, its not a great highway cruiser or Sunday driver, its a harsh and loud ride with little insulation and driver amenities. I use this car for a 65 mile commute daily (round trip) and it has its downfalls. Noise, moderate fuel mileage, VERY SMALL GAS TANK and loud overall with performance tires. But it is what it is: performance car with power to spare & character to match!

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  Best Looking Car Ever - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By SpartanHelios - March 16 - 9:10 pm

  This is my first new car and I cant think of a better vehicle to ride in. The car has the best character lines I have ever seen. I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone even considering a Civic, Corolla or a Scion. The most bang for your buck in this class period.

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  The One to Beat! - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By aralliart - March 16 - 1:00 am

  Mitsubishi has a superior car in the Lancer Ralliart. The tires should be 17". I had a little rattle in the dash but that was temporary. I have had this car for two years and counting. It is a keeper, unless I trade it in for the all new 08 Ralliart.

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  So Far So Good! - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Troy - March 2 - 11:00 am

  Weve had our Lancer for six months. So far, not one complaint. No problems of any kind, and more importantly, we love to drive! Its got a tight ride, (glued to the road), takes a beating on terrible city roads, is peppy and looks sexy. It has more than adequate power and with the kicking sound system, its more than fun to drive. Ive bought 8 cars new since my 1982 drivers license, and by far Im happiest with this one the most.