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:

• 

  Miss my Civic... NOPE! - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By GypsyBlu - September 27 - 11:20 pm

  Had a new 06 EX Civic with navi, and loved that car but went for test drive with my son, and fell in love with my new Lancer GTS, The lancer has everything a Techi Woman like me needs and craves. The handling is very solid unlike my Civic, and does not float on the highway at all, the bluetooth and fast Key are a big plus. The auto headlights and all the info screens are something the Civic should have, maybe next year. I loved my Civic, but the toys on this Lancer are too much more fun.

• 

  Wow! - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Gene Nigrelli - September 26 - 3:03 pm

  I cant believe that you can purchase a vehicle with all of these features for such a low price. Electronics are outstanding.

• 

  Great Buy - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Mark F - September 18 - 2:00 am

  The Lancer is a great car for the money. Plenty of interior room, especially in the back seat where many small cars are too tight for adults or even for kids in car seats. Back seat is very easy to get in and out of. The ride is also very smooth and quiet but still with good, predictable handling. The engine is very smooth for a big 4- cylinder and has plenty of power for moving about in daily traffic. The cruise control is nice because its too easy to exceed the speed limit in this car if your not careful.

• 

  Value for money - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By ozlancernut - September 18 - 2:00 am

  I have brand new yellow OZ-Rally Lancer . Inspiration on top! Every driver on a road looking on this beauty, breaking his or her necks! Tinted windows, OZ-racing rims, all body spoilers, and this car is fast, believe me. You only have to try smooth short manual transmission shifts. Its like a poem. Racing sound pleases your hart on 4000 rpm. The only issue tracking is bad! I mean really bad, my tires loose tracking when I force a car, even on strait road. Wanna more? AirIntake will improve performance for another dosen hp, for only 200 bucks. For my opinion it is the best car you can get on this price.

• 

  IM NOT A STOOGE FOR MITSUBITSHI - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By A.S. CAR OWNER - September 7 - 10:00 am

  YOU CAN TEST DRIVE THIS CAR YOURSELF AND SEE IF IM RIGHT. OVERALL GOOD CAR, BUT: IM DISSAPOINTED IN THE ENGINE NOISE COMPARED TO MY 99 SENTRA WHICH RUNS QUIET ALL THE TIME OR THE 99-03 GALANTS WHICH DOES THE SAME. THE ENGINE IS a SOHC = SINGLE OVERHEAD CAM, COMPARED TO ITS COMPETITORS TOYOTA, NISSAN, HYUNDAI, MAZDA, WHICH ALL USE 16 VALVE DOCH = DOUBLE OVERHEAD CAM ENGINES - MEANING QUIETER, MORE POWER AND LONGER LASTING. AT SPEEDS ABOVE 47, THERE IS VIRTUALLY NO TORQUE POWER IN THE ENGINE EVEN AFTER FLOORING THE PEDDLE.

• 

  Ralli - 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By RomeRacer - August 19 - 1:56 pm

  Fast, Fun, And Stylish

• 

  OZ Lancer - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By grubgal - August 5 - 2:00 am

  I have had my Lancer for almost a year now. It has been reliable. Needs more horsepower. I also think tires need to be a little more tacky. And also come with 16" or 17" wheels. Could be a little better on cornering. Needs ABS at least as an option. In the snow I slid because I didnt have them. Overall, though it is a good value for the price. However, I think my dealer ripped me off because it seems that I paid more than everyone else...$18K?! The only option I got was the rear spoiler. So who knows...

• 

  Not Excellent but Good - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By asa0526 - August 5 - 2:00 am

  The Lancer is not as refined as the 2001 Sentra (engine/road noise, plush materials). Lot like the Honda and Protege in terms of refinement but a small notch below both in terms of quality of materials. The Protege has larger HVAC controls - and better plastic. Interior space wise, this car is the roomiest. Gas mileage - right now I am averaging 32 mpg - 90% highway.

• 

  09 lancer gts - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Adrian - August 4 - 12:50 pm

  I just bought this car yesterday and I love it! This car is very roomy and comfortable. It has nice interior and a nice body. The upgraded engine is the icing on the cake. It is awesome.

• 

  Give me that POWER - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Savior Pearl - July 31 - 10:00 am

  Needs more Power. Need power, More Power.Nice to drive compare with Toyota Corolla, Ford focus, Nissan Sentra.