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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  Awesome Little Go Getter - 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Chris from Tacoma - March 28 - 9:06 pm

  Ive had the car for 5 months with no problems at all. The interior is great and the paint is really nice for the compact car segment. Its definately not a burner but I got it for the amazing warranty and the gas mileage (which has been improving ever since I got it). Great little car (with a HUGE backseat). Awesome features, I got my fully loaded ES with A/T for $14,200 out the door.

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  Very surprising car! - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Brad - March 28 - 7:26 am

  Ive had this car for about three years now, and no problems. It is very comfortable, though road noise is a bit high. Performance in city driving is great, but needs a bit more ability passing on the highway. Very nimble, takes turns quickly and easily, the most fun part of the car! Had a Cavalier, immediately impressed by the handling of this car which, for a lower price, replaces that trailing rear axle with a great multi-link suspension that hugs the road and handles the bumps. Note: my car was originally sold in Guam, and instead of the 2.0L SOHC 4- valve has a 1.6L 16V SOHC. This changes the torque a bit, for some reason I get peak torque of 130ft/lbs but at 3000 rpm not 4250. Kinda nice!

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  Lancer stick - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By jjwarner - March 24 - 12:40 pm

  LANCER 5 speed is a cheap car with better gas mileage than predicted. I get 25 in the city and 37 on the road. It needs a 6th gear however, the rpm are high on the highway after about 60 mph. Its very peppy and easy to drive. Has a horrible blind spot on left side. The "fast key" and map system are bogus and the time clock takes forever to display. However, its economy and fun to drive make up for the blind spot (bought a blind spot mirror). This is my third Mitsubishi, the cars do very well overall.

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  Pros and Cons - 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By jacks74 - March 8 - 7:30 am

  This was my first brand new car. A couple months into purchasing it, I had an issue starting it. I took it in and they said that it was a computer glitch with my line of car and that they couldnt fix and to press on the gas to start it when it happens. Currently battling the dealership with that but looking at others comments, it seems itll likely always do this. Other than that I love it. I would be more satisfied if the dealership could fix the starting issue. I wish I would have purchased it used because the used price of the car would definitely be worth it.

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  One to add to your shopping list - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By BellaCroix - February 27 - 3:46 am

  This was my first NEW car (7 miles at pick-up) - traded my Dodge Intrepid. I dont know how many times Ive noticed people checking the car out even a stranger at the gas station who struck up a conversation with me about the car. Its an absolute dream to drive, a ton of fun and so packed with technology that its like driving INSIDE a computer sometimes. Highway MPG is very respectable, city isnt the greatest but isnt that bad either. Its not a car to challenge other sport compacts to a race but if youre looking for a fun-to-drive car with enough get-up-and-go to get up and go this is worth adding to your short list.

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  WOW! This car is amazing. - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Brendon - February 26 - 7:36 am

  I bought this 2009 Lancer GTS Automatic. First, for what you are paying, this car is truly incredible. Ive research the others and read other reviews, the reviews speak for this car. I traded my 06 corolla in for it and will never own another yota after this car. For approx. $17200 out the door I got this car loaded and for what I paid, blows the competition out the door. I drove easy on my way home from the dealership and averaged 32.1 MPG, going about 60-70 MPH, not bad at all, I drive easy however. All I can say is, Mitsubishi, awesome job.

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  a great bang for your buck - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By wolfcry - February 16 - 10:10 am

  Ive had this for a year now, bought it used with about 130k miles. Very few issues with this car... Ive mostly just had to do the regular oil changes, but Ive also had to change a power window motor and rail, tie rod ends. Gotta change the bushings on the control arms later, and replace the window tint since its kinda messed up right now; not saying that all Lancers gotta change their window tint, mine was bought with some small defects in the all of the window tint...

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  Amazing vehicle - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By sedanfanman - February 11 - 7:11 pm

  I bought my 2009 Mitsu Lancer ES back in July 2009 and 70K+ miles later, I still love it! I looked at similar vehicles while shopping but fell in love with the handling, performance, and value of this car. Ive taken very good care of it and havent had a single engine problem. My one complaint is the paint. Due to a design flaw there is an unusual amount of paint wear on the side skirts near the rear wheels. Countless chips all over the hood (which, yes, happens. But there is a lot more than normal). One time, while washing the car, I was scrubbing off a dead bug and a decent size paint chip came off with it! That should not happen! Regardless, Id still recommend this car to everyone!

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  Features To Price Ratio = Unbeatable! - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By JEFF_IL - February 8 - 3:36 am

  I intended to wait until next year, and get the EVO, but after asking the wifey, ... well, you get the picture. :-) First off, the suspension/handling package (on the GTS) is unbelievable. Ive driven quite a few cars, and I must say, this is the most impressive part of this car! Word is, its fairly close to the suspension that will be found in the EVO-X. This car has more available features than any car in its class (I got them all). The Multi-Communication / Navigation / Sound package is something youd expect out of a $100k luxury sedan. Looks! Got it in Electric Blue Pearl, and with the GTS package, it turns a lot of heads. WORTH EVERY CENT!

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  Good Car Build Quality - 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Brillaint - February 3 - 11:56 am

  I bought a Lancer ES (Auto) for a good deal with Mitsubishi’s standard 100K Powertrain & 60K bumper to bumper warranty. Before buying this one I checked Corolla and Sentra then I decided to buy Lancer. Because for lesser money it got more equipment like key less entry, power windows etc. Fit and finish also really good and it comes with worry free warranty. I had 5 years of Civic and I have an Accord also. Still most of the luxury Japanese cars got the final build in Japan like Infiniti, Lexus or Acura. Other than luxury cars I believe Lancer is the only compact car build in Japan and that show its finish and build quality.