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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  I wanted a Mustang - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Sarahzsmyl - July 11 - 4:46 pm

  I really wanted a 2007 Mustang, but I started comparing, and chose this one. I couldnt be happier. I got an Electric Blue Lancer GTS with the nav system. The car runs smoothly, handles well, and looks great. With 18" wheels, the ride can be a little rough, but thats ok. The car is gorgeous. I get looks where ever I go. Ive used three tanks so far and get good mpg, about 32 hwy and 26 city. The paddle shifters are fun, but prefer to use the stick to hold it into 2nd gear for acceleration. And so far, thats the only real draw back, it can be hard to get up to speed in auto-mode. But, kick it into manual mode, and all that goes away. I dont regret my choice at all.

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  Not a bad ride. - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By IdleWanderlust - July 4 - 2:33 pm

  Bought a fully loaded Lancer GTS manual with sun and sound package and navigation, Love it, car gets better fuel economy that I expected, combined city/hwy of 29.3mpg and straight hwy at about 34 or so. Not bad when usually traveling at about 75mph. The only complaint I have is the car pulls slightly to the left and my dealership has stated there is no issue. I am hoping they will get it resolved soon as I went back and test drove another GTS and found no noticeable pull. I am starting to think that the suspension might need adjustment as the other GTS I tested had a much tighter steering which I preferred.

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  STAY CLEAR - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By bk007 - June 30 - 2:00 am

  I have owned the car for a year now, and cant wait to get rid of it. I drive a lot 40,000 miles in one year. Gas milage is getting worse and worse, build quality is poor, dash rattles, door rattles, now heres the best part the car has a msrp around 15k+ now a year later even if it had low miles its worth around 8k, 50% loss in one year, you do the math!

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  Not impressed - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Amanda - June 26 - 9:20 am

  If you live where there is snow, do not get this car! It tends to get stuck, even on the roads. It does not get any traction to get started, just wants to veer all over the road. Also, when trying to stop on slippery roads, it pulls the car hard left or right. I went from a 2007 Civic SI to a 2009 Lancer GTS, the Civic had tons more power and got tons better gas mileage. Very upset with the whole car. The seats are extremely uncomfortable when taking a trip longer than 30 minutes also.

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  2008 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Doug McKay - June 23 - 6:16 am

  Mitsubishi has a winner on their hands with the new 2008 Lancer. Everything from styling to creature comforts has helped raise the bar for this class of sedan. The car is a joy to drive, and the paddle shifters for the CVT transmission on the GTS model allow you to keep the engine in its sweet spot while carving through tight corners. The car is built tight with no squeaks or rattles of any kind. The optional 650 watt Rockford Fosgate audio system packs a punch, especially with the included subwoofer. I would recommend this car without hestitation.

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  the best car ive ever owned - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By angelictrouble83 - June 19 - 10:00 am

  This is a wonderful car to own! I have an 9 month old so storage room, comfort and reliability is a must and this car has all 3!

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  2003 OZ - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By O-Z - June 17 - 2:00 am

  I bought a 2003OZ.Its not bad compared to other vehicles in its class, but since the OZ is the Rally Racing it could use a stiffer clutch, and a short shifter wouldnt hurt.The seats are not that bad, but could be lowered just a tad.There is a wind whistle when i reach 100kph,took it to the dealer and they did nothing. They said theyll call me when the part it need will arrive.Its been almost two weeks and no call yet.

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  A Great (not so) little car - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Kyntara - May 25 - 2:00 am

  I have had my Lancer Oz for 2 years now and have never had any problems with it. The gas-mileage got better and better, getting 32 miles per gallon now instead of 28, after putting Michelin Tires on it.

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  2002 Mitsu OZ Lancer - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By OZ Lancer Fan - May 22 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car brand new. Eight years later, I have had no major problems with the car. I am currently at 145,000 miles and the car still retains the original timing belt! Other than the timing belt, Ive kept to the suggested maintenance schedule and have had no problems. With a regular waxing, twice a year, the car also has no rust. I would recommend for higher mileage cars "Mobile Synthetic Oil- High Mileage". I noticed that you get more power than other oils. This is a low maintenance car, and I plan on having this as my daily driver for a good 200k-400k more miles. I believe this is doable with the lack of problems I have had with this car. I highly recommend Mitsu Lancers.

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  Excellent value for money - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By TomK - May 11 - 10:00 am

  This car is a great deal! You get a lot for your money although I would have liked rear discs and ABS standard. The build quality is excellent, lots of low end power for just 120hp, great stereo, rides nicely, handles well. Compared to the Golf/Jetta I also looked at, the interior is far roomier and the performance was better at least compared to the non-turbo versions. The clutch is very nice but the 5- speed is a little notchy and is gated too close together.