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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  the review - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By jddyr - October 24 - 10:00 am

  i just love my new car. it runs so smoothly and it rides like a sports car.

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  Lancer GTS is a Fun Vehicle to Drive - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By terrynconnct - October 19 - 11:20 am

  The vehicle has a unique look that sets it apart from other vehicles. It has a great pickup for a 4 cyl 2.0 engine and with the optional paddle shift, it provides even greater excitement. The on-board LCD display with GPS navigation and high end sound system just adds to greater enjoyment.

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  Simply superlative - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By geralt - October 15 - 2:00 am

  I have this car for three monts, and absolutly love it. Have driven numerous small cars and none compare to this one. Room, ride, handling are outstanding. Fun car with plenty of speed for your average driver. Reliability is flawless, proven by German TUV. Lancer beats even a Mercedes and BMW. Have not had any problems at all with this car and would buy another in a second. Maybe even EVO VII.

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  Good car! - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By D.W. Stones - October 12 - 1:03 am

  The Lancers standard equipment is great not cheap and flimsy like in some of the domestic cars Ive had. This car is fun to drive and can take the numerous potholes of the roads of PA with out jolting you around like a youre riding in a dryer on four wheels unlike my old Subaru. More than 120 horses would make it a little bit more exciting to drive.

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  Fantastic car for the money - 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Burford60 - October 11 - 2:16 pm

  I bought this car back in April for my 17 year old son as his first vehichle. He absolutely loves the car. I purchased this car because car insurance was good for a starting driver, its warranty is great, and the car has great quality. I purchased it with the sun and sound package and the sound is unbelievable. The car rides pretty nicely, especially for an entry level car, its no Mercedes for sure, but it has great handling. I read many reviews on Edmunds and Consumer Reports before considering this car. It was a great choice and Consumer Reports is always right. Overall, I would give this car a 10/10.

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  Good Japanese Car for Great Price! - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By TomCat - October 10 - 2:00 am

  So far I am very pleased with my new Lancer! It rides very comfortably, performs well for a 4-cylinder, and there are plenty of standard features for the price. I added a color-keyed spoiler and tint at the dealership at no cost!!! The Diamond White Pearl paint is beautiful! Cant wait to go on a road trip.

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  My wifes car - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By troy williamson - September 22 - 2:00 am

  For the money this is the best car I ever owned. For small car it has great on long trips for comfort and gas. Best of all this car is great with style.

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  I wasnt looking for a new Lancer - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By tgriffaton - September 20 - 1:26 pm

  I wasnt looking for a new car, but a deer convinced me to look for a new one! So I headed over to the dealer... wow!! Love the styling of the inside and outside. Car shifts great, the handling and feel are much better than my 2004. This car is a head turner!

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  Fun, but economical? - 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By catfeeder - September 14 - 5:10 am

  Ive put about 4000 miles on my Lancer so far. It was a bit of an impulse buy, but Im happy and I have no regrets; Ill cover the few things I dont like. After driving stickshifts for years, I decided to go for an automatic. I knew Id lose some power and efficiency. The car is not particularly fast and Im OK with that, but for a slow car Im disappointed with the fuel economy. I expected high 20s or low 30s for MPG; I get low-mid 20s. One other complaint about the automatic is that its not decisive on its shifts. The shifts are not firm (sort of mushy) and if you mash the pedal down, the car has to think about it a bit longer than I care to wait for the downshift to occur.

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  A VERY FUN CAR! - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By mp010101 - September 12 - 1:27 pm

  I have now put over 136,000 miles on this car. I drive the hell out of this car and treat it like a work truck, engine is great and one of the best 2.4s that was built during this time. I have kept up with my regular maintenance items (oil changes, brakes, transmission flushes, etc...) and the car has been great. Good acceleration and a responsive gas pedal compared to other cars. I know people with much newer cars in this category (Nissan versas corollas etc ) and this car is way more fun to drive. Looks like after a 136K miles i will have to change the catalytic converter. My goal is to try to get this car to 200k if it holds up.