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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  cheap and fun - 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By james - September 9 - 6:13 pm

  Just traded in a Pontiac Grand Am for my 05 Lancer ES two weeks ago. The Lancer is such a better car. I like the look and the engine is peppy for only 120 hp. The MPG has been far better then my Grand AM wich was also a 4-cyl. engine but doesnt feel like Im sacrificing power even though the lancer does have less then the Grand Am. Excellent warranty and 3 years free scheduled maintenence helped sell me on the car.

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  2004 oz vs 03 es - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By DANRAY - September 5 - 10:00 am

  I had the 2003 lancer es for about 4 months.. it was auto, hubcaps, no spioler or sunroof.. so We went out and got the 2004 lancer oz.. VERY NICE UPGRADE.. we were origonally looking for the 2003 lancer oz but couldnt find one manual ANYWHERE.. I am very impressed with the 2004,, Definate upgrade..HIGHLY RECCOMENDED

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  Great, Fun to Drive & Reliable Ralliart - 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By bambamp3 - September 4 - 2:00 pm

  I purchased this car used, as I had a limited budget. The dealer was selling it below kbb value and the carfax was clean, so I wanted to see why. I test-drove it and didnt want to let it go. Everything was clean inside, and was in excellent working condition. The car is very strong, you wont even notice that youre doing 70-80 already unless you look at the speedometer. The shifter is sweet! Short throw and a perfect match to the engine. I also liked the exhaust note. The former owner of the car customized the sound system of the car, so that was an added bonus too. I am planning on keeping this car until its at least 10 years old already. I am totally happy with this car!

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  Fun Commuter - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By //Scrypt - September 3 - 2:00 am

  The OZ Rally may look like its Rally cousin, but is more distant than its appearance and name may suggest. If you are expecting a sports car, look elsewhere. If you are looking for an economical commuter that looks good and is fun to drive, this is your car! Its quiet, roomy, smooth, predictable, and comfortable.

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  Great Car For The Money - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By hayesd2 - August 20 - 12:33 am

  I bought the 08 new and have had it now for a little over a year. I have the "sun and fun" package along with the wing on the rear. The only real flaw I can think of is that the car should have had a 6th gear. Gas mileage would have been far better and the wear and tear on the engine would be reduced. I would buy it again

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  Dissatisfied - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By 2003 Lancer - August 14 - 7:03 pm

  Ive had my 03 Lancer for 5 years now, and I only have 40,600 miles on it. Just recently the Horn-Pad assembly stopped working, is malfunctioning. Because it is connected with the airbags and steering component, I have to get the entire component replaced, which has cost me over $1200. Another unfortunate thing is that the part is not made in the U.S. The part had to be placed on backorder from Japan - not too happy about that!

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  Happy and Satisfied - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By ChiBob - August 8 - 2:00 am

  Stylish, nice build. Not ubiquitous like a Civic or Corolla, so it stands out, at least for now. Roomy interior with great ergonomics. Seats are a little hard, but support is good. Lots of great standard features. And again, build quality is superb.

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  My cars better than yours - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By ethan - August 8 - 2:00 am

  overall this car is pretty good for the price tag even though they mimic the rally car but only put the engine of a civic into it. The ride is smooth but the clutch needs alot of work. My suggestion would be to rent one if you can find one and drive it for a week before buying one, still though i would i get just as many options on this as i would a civic ex or corolla le, but i only paid $15,500, those two are asking almost $20,000 for the same thing! Wake up and drive honda and toyota this car is better in every way.

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  Great car - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By joey - July 16 - 3:03 pm

  I own several cars and this was my latest buy. This is a very impressive car. Has a lot of toys and gadgets that make the car very fun to drive

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  Fun and Reliable Commuter - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By MitsuMufti - July 11 - 10:00 am

  I drove just about every other car in its class (including the far more powerful sports sedans) and was not planning on buying the Lancer. After test-driving the O-Z Rally, however, I was sold. The power was decent, but the ride was incredible. Great handling, comfortable seats and a feel for the road trumped all the reviews I read. I didnt count on the reliability, though. 10 months and 20,000 miles later Ive had no problems. Definitely consider the O-Z.