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 options for "econobox" - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Clayton - June 1 - 1:10 am

  This car is miles above others in the compact segment. The power is adequate but leaves something to be desired. Other than that, no complaints. Looks at every stoplight.

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  The absolute best investment! - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Mike L - May 27 - 7:26 pm

  When I first test drove the Lancer Ralliart I fell in love! I was in the market to buy a compact car and this one is the best of its class. I cant help but smile every time I get behind the wheel. Allthough I think red is the best color to get because of the interior the black one that I got is equally as good. I love how it picks up on the freeway and how it eats up the Civic SI on the road and at top end. The best investment I ever made. For its price the Ralliart with all options is the absolute best buy. And if you havent drove one you need to because it is fun!

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  LancerLS - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Bill22x - May 17 - 2:00 am

  I bought my Lancer in October and I love it. So far I havent had any problems and the gas mileage has been great. Especially with my driving style (had license less than a year).

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  Excellent car - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By vildal - May 10 - 12:03 pm

  When purchased it was extremely zippy and quick. At 100,000 miles it got sluggish until the ALTERNATOR belt was replaced. The 2 spark plug wires that go into the engine made more spark too. This performance of the Lancer depends highly on spark. Great car - clutch goes out at 100,000 only. No other repairs.

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  Hank awaits the EVO VII - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Hizzank - May 10 - 11:26 am

  So far, Ive had zero problems with the car, its great.

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  Exilerating - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Jason Rodriguez - April 22 - 10:00 am

  This car is one of the fastest 4 cylinders, that i have ever driven. Very responsive and very stylish. More room than honda civic. I f friends are in the back, i still have the seat all the way back. Big trunk, good torque, good mileage! Couldnt be happier!

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  08 Lancer - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Lancer - April 3 - 11:50 am

  I love this car. Its my first "new" car and for the price I am 100% satisfied with what I got. I love the sound of the mivec when you get on it a little. There has only been a couple things I dont love about my new lancer: I wish the 5 speed had another gear; when I am cruising at 70 and my rpm are just over 3k, I feel like I am straining it even though Im not. (it does have some crazy response in 5th though, jumping up into the triple digits with just a little push!) and gas mileage could be a little better especially with the way prices are going. But in all, Im very happy with the car. Its a joy to drive every day!

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  2008 Mitsubishi Lancer ES CVT - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By chewy1885 - March 30 - 11:26 pm

  The car is a great choice for the money. You get great performance with awesome comfort. It is a sports car that is a great family car. I got the silver with everything except the navigation.

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  Ralliart Vs Evo - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By TicoRico - March 17 - 2:23 am

  I think this car is great for the money you spend. its 10 - 15 grand cheaper than any of the Evos (GSR/MR/MR Touring) for a difference of 50 HP (larger turbo) and different suspension, rims, and a transmission (Taken from older EVO) Your spending most of that 10 - 15 grand on the name, and the small differences listed above. I wanted the Evo, but i didnt want to spend 40 grand on the MR touring. This car is a great deal for the money. You could take that 10-15 grand you saved and make it alot nicer and or faster if you wanted to. The car is quick and fun, it gets decent gas and is big enough for a family, and can drive anywhere due to its all wheel drive and traction control.

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  Definitely built with consumer in mind! - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By AP in KS - February 27 - 4:46 pm

  I was in search for a car that I didnt expect to exist: sporty enough to meet my high standards but would work for a future family car. That is just what I found in the new 2008 Lancer! We added the Sun and Sound package which is really fun for summer driving! Talk about built with the consumer in mind! Everything about the car, from displays and gadgets to handling and mpg, this car meets every one of my needs and wants!! The bluetooth, steering wheel controls, and multi-dash display make for a very safe and forward facing drive. This car turns heads more than my Eclipse! I absolutely love to show this car off, inside and out!