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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  LOVE THIS CAR - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By nashvillefisk - April 27 - 10:00 am

  This is a great little car I got it used and it feels like new no rattles or vibrations just a smooth ride ant plenty of power!!! I just wish I bought it from a diffrent dealer!

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  Best Vehicle For The Money Ever! - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By jja006 - April 12 - 7:20 am

  The 2008 Lancer is by far the best vehicle I have ever driven! I was one of the lucky few that was able to purchase one of the very first GTS with nav and tech package, sun sound, full load! I have waited ever since I saw the concept online. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone who enjoys a great value for the money, and look great doing it!

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  My First Car!! - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By KoNi - April 6 - 5:46 am

  I purchased this car a few months after graduation! As my first car, the Lancer was a great investment. I havent had any problems at all for the past 2 years, even though I bought it used. Just keep them tuned and in good shape and your Lancer should last you with no problem.

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  Great Car for the Money! - 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By telkbear - March 25 - 6:33 am

  I have been very happy with Mitsubishi products in the past, so we thought it would be a good move to get another. I am glad we have! Lancer ES has surprisingly good power to get on and off the interstate when needed, and it is very easy on gas! Visibility is great with all of the large windows. The cooling/heating seems to be a good balance for the entire car. A smart buy!

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  Too bad for the paint job - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By bpd295 - March 24 - 11:43 pm

  After owning the vehicle for six months, the paint in the rear quarter panels is chipping by the rear doors. I took this to the dealer and they nearly laughed at me. The service manager encouraged me to file a fraudulent insurance claim to so that they could get compensated and repaint the vehicle for me. Body shop people stated that this is a design flaw and a lot of Lancers are having this problem. I was actually told to just budget for body work every year. Such a shame because I love the car otherwise.

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  Great car for the Price - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By mbcowboy - March 23 - 7:06 am

  Great driving car, starts well in -30- 40C temps. Warms up quickly without much pre-warming. The CVT is great, has the power that i need. Has a lot of features for the price compared to other vehicles. I had compared different sub-compacts for price and driving quality and the Lancer was still the best.

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  Top of its class - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Kevin - March 21 - 7:50 pm

  This is the first new car I have ever owned. I have to say Im very happy. The engine is a great balance between performance and efficiency, the 5 speed is smooth, good brakes, and is LOADED with features. I have an ES with the sun and sound and sport package. I wanted a GTS, but got a good deal, it has everything but the 18" rims and the 2.4L. The interior is minimal, yet attractive and roomy. I love the stereo and steering wheel controls. No other car in its class can compare. I drove an 09 Corolla, for the same price it had 15" hubcaps! And the transmission sucked as it was slooooow. This car is beautiful and has a great warranty. I cant recommend this car enough.

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  Lancer GTS Sun & Sound Silver - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By scuderiams - March 13 - 1:53 am

  I just bought this car and its amazing. I got the Sun & Sound package and its worth every dollar. The performance is great for a 2.4l. I like the CVT with the paddle shifters. Fuel consumption its good, not the best one but its good and better than my previous car. Hands free system works great. The exterior design is great, its an eye catcher. Handling and suspension work great together.

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  Cooool Car. - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Buboy - March 1 - 9:40 am

  If you want a high tech car with superb sound system at a reasonable price, this car is for you. However, if you want racing cars - buy the Ralliart or Evo.

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  Lancer GTS CVT, neck breaker - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By ElectroBuff - February 9 - 12:03 am

  Let me just start by saying, I never was a Mitsubishi fan. Most of their cars were small and dull. I actually went to the dealership to test drive a 2007 Mazda CX9. The price wasnt right so I found myself walking off the car lot, but I had to go through the Mitsubishi side of the dealership to get to my car. Out of the corner of my eye I saw a Graphite Gray Pearl Lancer 4dr CVT with paddle shifters and the Sun & Sound Package with Navigation and a 30GB hard drive calling my name. Needless to say I went home that night with the car. And it has been breaking necks every since. This car is pound for pound untouchable by Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, ScionTC, Chevy Colbalt, Acura NSX.