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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  poor parts availability - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By a stevenson - November 3 - 8:10 pm

  What good is the warranty if you cant get the parts. The air flow sensor went on my car 2000 km out of warranty and the co. refused to assist with cost. To make matters worse I have now been 8 days with no car while we wait for the part to be shipped from the States. Mitsubishi would be the last car I would ever buy. Warranty is all smoke and mirrors. The fact that they have no parts warehouse in Canada shows they cant back there vehicles and care very little about Canadian consumers. This car was a blast to drive but will be for sale if I ever get it back.

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  LOVE IT! - 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By dewaynej77 - November 2 - 4:40 am

  I have had my lancer for 7 months now, and still love it as much as the day I drove it off the lot. I LOVE the extras like bluetooth, 6 disc changer, sub woofer, CVT trans, and stering wheel controls. I get so many compliments on the look of my car. I hope to keep this car for years. I havent had one single problem so far, and I hope it keeps it up. Some people complain about engine noise, but I like the sound. I really cant say enough good things about my lancer!!!

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  Great car! with a couple gripes - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By ajkassay - October 31 - 4:44 pm

  I got this car used almost 2 years ago with 12k miles. now, with 35k miles, its still great. havent had a single issue with it yet. gas mileage isnt the best, but its fine. driving this car is great, the confident handling makes this car pleasing to drive. I just wish the engine had just a bit more power, and a little more quiet, but it gets the job done. I also love the interior and the rockford fosgate sound system, its one of the things that make this car such a great value. However, my biggest complaint is the paint. Its terrible! It scratches very easily, which gets frustrating over time. And since i live in a hot climate, im worried about the suns toll on the paint.

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  My Super Car - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Jr Evo - October 31 - 11:40 am

  The 2003 Lancer is a great car to modify. A lot of people complain that it is lacks prower, but all it needs is a high flow cat and muffler and a cold air intake with light rims and ngk iridium plugs. Im doing 0-60 in about 5.5 seconds.

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  A great car for the young! - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Burke - October 30 - 2:00 am

  This car is great! I love it! I drive as much as I can just to cruise in this car!

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  Sportcompact Segments Best Kept Secret - 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By JOE LANGLEY - October 25 - 1:00 am

  I did not know of the exsistance of this particular Lancer model, but I was forced to research this car due to rising insurance costs. I went to the dealership and was handed the keys to the Lancer ralliart W/5 speed manual transmission, the moment I slipped the transmission into first gear and rolled away, I knew deep in my heart that my search for a car was offically over. I took a left turn out of the dealership and headed straight for the interstate where I merged into traffic with authority. The smooth clutch and short throw transmission were a pure joy to operate. Torque is present in abundance with no need to downshift to pass. The handling is telepathic and this car has a great sounding exhaust.

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  04 Manual Ralliart - 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Katy - October 22 - 5:50 am

  Ive had this car for nine months now and havnt had a problem yet. Its a fun car to drive, has great pickup, and gets you a lot of attention on the road. Awesome after 3500 RPM when the Mivec engine kicks in! I feel that I made a great choice on deciding to get the Ralliart.

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  Thank you for bringing it to the states - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By souren - October 20 - 10:00 am

  The lancer is a great car! I think we should have had the car here in the states a long time ago. It out- preforms the civic, sunfire, cavelier, sentra, focus and many other cars in its class. There is a big aftermarket parts market for the lancer!

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  The Best Car Ever! - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By MOONITE - October 7 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car in 12/02. I was so excited to have a brand new car as my first car ever. This car is amazing. Everyone I ran into cant help but admire my beautiful car. I love it. It runs smooth and I get great milage.

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  i like it - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By dunkin - October 1 - 2:00 am

  not alot to say, handles well , great breaks and good take off. I like it well enough.