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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  GREAT LOOK NOT GREAT RUNNING - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By tthomas - January 29 - 10:00 am

  I have had my Mitsubishi lancer for 1 year and it has been back to the shop 3 times since its purchase all major problem 1 the axle went 2 the radiator went 3 the material on the door panels is lifting and will need to be replaced I love this car for everything else but its mechanical problems

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  Coming from a new Civic.... - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By GypsyBlu - January 15 - 2:33 pm

  I checked this Lancer out, I had an old one and then a new Civic coupe EX fully loaded. The electric blue is amazing, it was the very first thing that made me want to look at the car. With the keys in hand I took a 50 mile test drive. The handling of the car was great, almost like my BMW. It is heavy and stays on the road. The sound system is awesome along with the bluetooth, all the info screens and the FAST key - love that I no longer need a key. The car does use a bit more fuel then my Civic, but the handling is well worth it.

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  Lancer Ralliart - 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By eric - January 12 - 5:43 pm

  I have to say that I really enjoy driving this car! I went into the dealership to get my Eclipses dashboard fixed, and while waiting I just started browsing the Lancers and decided to take one for a test drive. What a difference between the Lancer and my Eclipse (GS 2000). The Ralliart has a nice stiff suspension that feels great going into curves, as well as the steering feels extremely direct. The car also feels very peppy and light and the view the drivers seat makes driving in any traffic very easy. Factor in those Japanese seats that hold you in and its a great experience.

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  New car on the block - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By lucas from canada - January 9 - 9:33 am

  This car was love at first sight. I love the look, the drive, and most importantly the price tag. As my first car, this car has all the features a young businessman could want. Sporty with a touch of elegant, its perfect for my daily commute and weekend drive to the beach. Mitsubishi made a statement with this car and they do have the most competitive price. Good job Mitsubishi Motors!

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  I love this car!! :) - 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Lisa - January 3 - 7:26 pm

  I just got rid of a 2000 Mitsubishi Mirage LS to buy a 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer OZ Rally, and this car is so much more peppier and "alive" than my Mirage! This is an extremly fun car! Its very comfortable, and everything is in perfect reach! It runs great! Of course Ive only had it for a few months, and every new car will be perfect in the beginning. I had my Mirage for 4 years, and I never had a problem with it, except that the paint on the front bumper of my car was somehow cracking and getting dull...Im not sure what happened there. I guess its too hot in Arizona!! :)

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  More Power - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Desprate For Power - December 28 - 12:00 pm

  Okay there is the DE Lancer the ES Lancer and the GTS, I own the GTS and I just dont see the point, because it looks just like the others. I have the CVT transmission which makes the 0-60 an astonishing 11.7 seconds. It is extremely underpowered and overpriced for that power, you can get the same car in the DE or the ES. you can order the same accessories as well. The car weighs 3100 lbs, and puts 139 hp to the wheels. I put rims on my GTS and it looks amazing, but needless to say wouldnt they all. I would also say get it without the spoiler if you ever hope to see out of the rear window. It is a great car I can say that!

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  I love this car - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Mcdonald - December 24 - 2:00 am

  Hi guys i just wanted to let yall know that i love my lancer it was my first car and ill def. get anotherone in a couple of years this is a great car for city traveling. MATT

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  This is a great vehicle! - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By CarinErin - December 14 - 11:56 am

  I bought the Lancer because I wanted something similar to a Civic, but more unique. Buying this was actually a better deal than a Civic! It is fun to drive, gets great gas mileage, & looks great. It is a GREAT value! I love my Lancer!

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  Impressed With Lancer - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By AksJay - December 14 - 8:23 am

  I spent 3-4hrs a day to and from work in Chicagoland traffic and weather. I was very impressed with how it handled all of these situations. Its now 4yrs old with 121000 miles and still have not had any trouble except for tire issues which is expected with distance and weather issues. It still has same back brakes and suspension is near perfect. Very happy and will probably buy a new lancer soon.

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  more bang for your buck - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By donald blue - December 13 - 10:00 am

  i found that for a small car it is really fun to drive. i am typically a truck person but let go of my truck for my lancer o-z. it still has enough room to seat four people comfortably and move on down the road, and get good fuel economy.