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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  Chris review - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Chris Torres - October 23 - 11:25 am

  Dont get steered away from the are if you hear the injectors are ticking.

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  Overpriced and Uncomfortable - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By bradpepsi - October 22 - 2:00 am

  This has got to be the most uncomfortable car Ive ever driven. The driver is very cramped and the gas pedal is far too sensitive. The problem is you dont notice things like that on a test drive, its only when you go on a drive more than 30 minutes or so that you notice how uncomfortable it is. Performance is much better than the reviews for it indicate, but the gas mileage is pathetic for a car with a 115 HP 4 cylinder engine (about 23 mpg in the city). At $17,300 for the automatic version, Mitsubishi is out of their mind. Ive had mine for only two months and am already looking to get rid of it.

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  The best small sedan - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Geralt - October 22 - 2:00 am

  The best small car to drive. Handling, fun and design are outstanding.A lot of room inside. The engine has enough power to enter 70 mph highway line and commute everyday. Has good fuel economy and handling is awesome. Youll take 25 mph turns with 50 mph and not feel it. Reliablitity poven by German TUV. For 5 years old cars Lancer is better then some Mercedes or BMW! Great mitsubishi.

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  2005 Mitsubishi Lancer - 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Chr15 - October 18 - 6:03 pm

  Take the 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer to dirt, and turn the wheel all the way and hit reverse, woo is that fun! dont worry about moving much cause your making unbelievable turns. it would be better if you got one with all the features needed and security requried ABS is not standard, but a CD player is? I like the full grill as opposed to the two quarter size slotts. The clips installed on the inside panels are perfect for power wire for trunk thumpers. This is the only car Ive had where the seat didnt have to be all the way back to reach the pedals sufficiently and comfortably. I wish I would have gotten the Ralliart model though. The factory brakes seem to decipate too soon.

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  The wizard of OZ turns heads - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By michield - October 17 - 2:00 am

  The Lancer OZ Ralley is a head turner. A sporty car with a youthful aroma. Some critics say its under powered with only 120hp in a 130hp class but the torque at 130lbs is what you feel. I tested the corolla, protoge, and sentra before deciding on the OZ. I didnt find any noticable difference in power or acceleration when driving. I suggested that if you want to turn heads by the OZ. If you are more conventional and wish to save a few pennies in gas by the corolla.

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  Love the Ralliart - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By hanars2000 - October 14 - 2:50 am

  Ive had the car for 8 months and its only getting better. It is tight and its handling crisp. The interior is quiet compared to all the other in its class. I drove them all before I bought the Ralliart.

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  RUN BABY RUN - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By gil - October 12 - 2:05 am

  Runs good. Keeps you moving.

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  Awesome car at an awesome value - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By melacon - October 1 - 4:50 am

  At this pricepoint you cant get much more cool stuff, and cool looks, crammed into one car. All the techno stuff aside, I really enjoy the overall feel of the car. Its pretty fun to drive, and its very comfortable doing it.

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  Cant help but love and respect this car - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Reluctant respect - October 1 - 4:03 am

  I bought this car because I had to - I hit an economic tough patch and had to downsize from my previously owned semi-luxury car. For the first 2 years, I hated the car and made jokes about it. But now, about 5 years in, I have to take my hat off. It has run great, with very little maintenance needed. Something else I have to mention: even today, Im getting about 30 miles to the gallon - no lie! The car now has about 160,000 miles on it, and its showing no signs of quitting. It really won me over as a Mitsubishi fan, especially since I so badly wanted to keep making fun of it after I got it. But now, all I do is smile and admit that I couldnt have been more wrong.

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  Wow, what a car! - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Don Chamberlin - September 30 - 2:00 am

  I went to the dealership for the Evo. It became pretty clear that I couldnt fit it into my monthly budget. I was shown the Ralli Art. The suspension makes it fun to drive. A new engine gives it plenty of power. Also, the looks are really sharp. Plus, its a pretty unique car. I havnt seen anyone with one. I love the car and I had a smooth experience buying.