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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  A Nimble Machine - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By dasharc - May 4 - 2:00 am

  After almost 2 months of walking away from testdrives that just didnt feel right, I knew the Lancer was for me the minute I sat in the drivers seat. Its comfortable, stylish, and nimble..not to mention fun. The car makes you want to drive because it simply takes to the road and wont let go! The highway is the best place for the OZ, but its just as much a joy to buzz around town in. The ride is smooth and effortless at any speed. Theres plenty of room for rear passengers without cramping anyone and with the fold-down seats this car is practical, too.

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  excellent car - 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By biglou - May 2 - 10:00 am

  this car is fun to drive is laike the evo but for alot less.

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  Amazing little car - 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Rob - April 29 - 11:38 pm

  Lets be real about this review. This is a compact AWD car for around $20k. This is an all-around excellent, fun to drive car. For what you pay and what you get there is no equal. This car is easily overlooked in favor of other small foreign cars and this includes the Subaru. HOWEVER, this is an amazing little car. Wonderful engine, and so far no mechanical issues at (26,000 miles). I have a 2016 ES, AWD with the 2.4 CVT. I love that the technology in the car. Its simple and in some ways , "old school". Controls are laid out well and easy to use. Visibility is excellent!! I am a smaller person and never have an issue checking my blind spots or backing the car. The 2.4 engine delivers very nice power especially at highway speeds. If you want to be naughty and say push it over 80MPH the little engine really wakes up and can probably catch a few bigger cars off guard. I personally find the fuel-economy to be very good. If you put things into perspective and consider the following; 2.4, CVT (automatic) with A/C and AWD. Then I think 30 MPG is outstanding!! Im not sure where these other drivers get off saying the fuel-economy is so poor. I find it, in fact, to be rather good. I dont care for the CVT automatic but have never found it to be a problem. I think it holds the engine performance back too much and it never allows the engine to happily-rev to the red line, instead it allows for a leisurely stroll around the tach. I have yet to encounter any serious snow conditions but feel pretty confident it will perform well in the snow too. However, my car came with ridiculous "traction B" tires so be VERY careful in the rain with these crappy tires. Consider the Continential "pure-contact" as an immediate replacement. Overall, I cant say enough good things about this little car. Im very pleased with mine.

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  Bueno - 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By chaga - April 27 - 1:56 am

  My Mitsubishi Lancer es muy beuno. This car is absolutely great. There finally is a compact sedan at a price to compete with the Civic that has the performance and looks to match.

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  Excellent car for price - 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By lotte311 - April 27 - 12:59 am

  I bought my car in 2005 with 12000 miles on it. I am now crossing the150k mark. I have not had any major issues. I have performed all recommended maitaince. The only major repair so fair was a LF inner wheel which was done last year at 125K miles. I am now routinely making 1200 mile round trips to another state and this car powers through the drive. Pretty good for its value, not the prettiest car on the road but if you are looking for good value for your money then this is it. I still get an average of 25 miles in town. On my last trip out of state I did 30miles/gallon on highways.

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  Lancer GTS looks like twice the price - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Geodude - April 11 - 10:36 pm

  The Lancer GTS is a lot of bang for the buck! I looked at cars in the same class as well as some upscale makes in the same size. Hands down this car is the best value and absolutely the best looking including cars costing much more money. Ive never had so many compliments at stop lights and convenience stores. Mitsubishi may well be on their way to moving up the sales ladder with this fantastic car with Japanese reliability!

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  Great value! - 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By soyeahiknow - April 5 - 7:42 pm

  I have been the go to guy to buying cars for my family so in the past 4 years, I have bought 3 new cars and one used car. I was worried about the CVT transmission because i read online it was a bad transmission with no power. Wow, these "expert" reviewers must be test driving too many turbo mustangs and super cars. The CVT is just fine in power! If you are not used to driving one, it may feel different. So in a with a regular auto transmission, a sign of an underpowered car is when u push the gas hard, you will see the engine RPM go way up but the speed lags until it up-shifts a gear. The CVT sounds just like that so u THINK like its underpowered but its not true. Test drive one.

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  excellent car! - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By lngtonge18 - April 4 - 10:00 am

  I have had my OZ since November and absolutely love it. Its been flawless and the build quality is exceptional. Exterior is sporty and elegant, like a mini-BMW, and gets stares all the time. The interior looks great (love that brushed aluminum trim and the cream white gauges) and is so roomy. The ride is unbelieveably composed and comfortable up to 3 digit speeds. It handles good as well. My only complaints are the non-performance tires and the uncomfortable non- adjustable lumbar sticking in my back. Otherwise, the Lancer is an excellent car and definitely worth a look.

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  I love my car! - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Leslie - April 3 - 7:56 am

  Ive only had this car for a few months, but so far, I love it! The first owner of the car maintained it perfectly, so maintenance has not yet been an issue on this 78K mile vehicle. Based on some of these reviews, my opinion might change once major work is necessary, but so far the car is wonderful, and the best Ive ever owned. Its fun to drive, handles well, and has enough zip to pass whenever I need to. Im planning to drive this car for years to come. Im a careful driver, and keep up on suggested maintenance, and dont see any problems in the near future.

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  3rd owner and no problems - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By jacendb - April 3 - 1:13 am

  I bought the car in October 2011. I was looking for a Mazda but this was the only available back then and I didnt have too much time to be picky. Besides the radiator breaking one time, I havent had any issue. No loose interior parts, no shaking when driving the highway. Its 9 years old and its still soft and steady. It has surprised me in a very good way. I will have to change the catalytic converter eventually, but everything else seems to be ok. Parts are more expensive than other cars, but you wont need many.