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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  Ergonomically Perfect - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Paul Stumpf - August 30 - 2:00 am

  My 1983 Lancer LS has all the most important features I was looking for. Very pretty interior with all controls at my fingertips; 15" alloy wheels; cruise control; power mirrors; remote entry with 4-door locking from drivers and front passengers controls; front and rear stabilizers and front disc brakes. The car is exceptionally tight and quiet. The engine compartment is well laid out and very tidy. The Lancer LS is an excellent long trip car for its size and has plenty of legroom for rear seat passengers.

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  Lancer Ralliart vs. Civic Si - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Mitsu Sports - August 30 - 2:00 am

  Mitsubishi gets a perfect 10 for upgrading its econo/sport car. O-Z model didnt have enough adrenaline rush under its hood or suspension skills. The 04 Lancer Ralliart has enough guts to crush a puny v-tech civic. V-Tech or MIVEC? Well on paper and on the track it shows Mitsu has a better variable valve timing system.

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  03 OZ left over- loving it so far - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By lowzone - August 30 - 2:00 am

  just got the car as an 03 Leftover, dealership was OK,salesman was great. Paid 13,425 for a 17k car (plus tax,title,reg). great incentives from Mitsu for leftovers. Great deal over the ES with added options,nicer seating,coloring of interior. Rides great, havent figured out the MPG yet, only 300 miles on the car so far.has enough torque to get onto highways and we havent revved it up past 3500 yet since its so new.

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  Great for what you pay for! - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By atoice - August 19 - 5:20 pm

  Keep it simple. You get a great overall car for what you pay for. Now, I have owned plenty of cars in my life, but for the buck. I got a great car. Looked at Corollas, Mazda3s, Civics, and Sentras. I could have gotten these options on the competitors, but would have cost me probably 2k-3k more out the door.

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  Only Lancer better would be the EVO - 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By cmcoggon - August 6 - 8:26 pm

  I didnt want to get another Lancer as my wife has an 03 OZ, but I was swayed once I test drove it. It powered into traffic without effort. I was pushed into my seat by unexpected torque. I was sold at that point. The frills (sunroof and Infinity sound system) were just the proverbial icing on the cake.

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  Just wait.... - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By cbull25 - July 25 - 11:23 am

  I bought my Lancer in July, and like all of you, was very excited about the look, ride, value, and features. That is until I washed and waxed it after a few months. The paint on the rear side panels chips like you would not believe. I searched on the internet and found so many other Lancer owners that this is happening to as well. WHAT A BUMMER!!!! If I wouldve known the condition that the paint would be in after only 6 months, I wouldnt even have considered a Lancer. Oh yeah, you guessed it..."It is not a defect with the vehicle design or paint, so it is not covered under warranty." Normal road wear....youve got to be kidding.

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  Good car - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Shane - July 22 - 2:43 am

  Loved this car, I have the ES. Nice cheap car to get you around. Have taken it to Dallas and back a few times which is about 4.5 hours away from me. Loved driving it every mile of the way. Havent had any problems with it at all yet. The engine doesnt feel that luckluster for a tiny 4 cylinder which is good. Car is amazingly sharp when just putting tint on the windows and giving it a good wash. A real looker. Gas mileage is awesome, I drive the highway to work and back and get around 33mpg when I dont use the a/c. Very very nice car, I would recommend it to anyone who doesnt have kids. Backseat is a little small.

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  Still pleased - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By res - July 21 - 2:00 am

  My wife and i bought this car with 11 miles on the odometer. Great feeling.8 years later we are almost at 60k. This car is mostly driven by my wife.We use to use for long trips and am surprised to hear people have gotten up to 30 mpg on the highway. I have seen consistent 25 mpg on highway. Anyway this is a great little car that is nimble but lacks a little power.

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  GREAT CAR - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By CARRIE - July 18 - 2:00 am

  THIS IS MY FIRST NEW CAR EVER. I WAS LOOKING FOR A WHILE AND I JUST LOVE THIS CAR MY HUSBAND HAS A LX LANCER WE PURCHASED 1 MONTH AGO AND I LIKED IT SO MUCH THAT I BOUGHT MY OWN LANCER AND THEIR TWINS SAME COLOR BUT I HAVE THE ES AND HE HAS THE LS

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  6 month update - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By steven - July 5 - 11:20 pm

  Well, I have owned this car for six months now and its been pretty good although I have had some issues in which ive had to return to the dealer for. As with any car there are pros and cons. However, there are more pros than cons with this lancer ES CVT. The pros are great handling, very sharp looking, great mpg, good power, and a very quiet interior. I did have a few issues early on with the trunk light not working and the rear airbags cover came loose from the clips that held them in place. But those issues were fixed at the dealership. I traded in a 08 Honda Civic LX and I enjoy the Lancer much better. It handles better, and looks better and is more quiet interior and has more power.