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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  Best in its class - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Vic - January 27 - 4:50 am

  Gorgeous car, gets a lot of attention. Drives very smooth, handles great and I love the response from the breaks. It has a great turning radius as well. This car is definitely not cookie-cutter, you wont see it along with all the Camrys and Civics, its unique all the way from its exterior to its features. Great buy, I couldnt be happier!

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  Excellent bang for the buck! - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Jimmy - January 17 - 3:33 pm

  This is a fully juiced GTS! For the tech-toys that come along with it, this car is a no-brainer. Having read many reviews in advance, I was concerned about the lack of power, but after test-driving the car, I found that it had all I needed. Anymore (i.e., Ralliart or Evo) would just get me into trouble. If you are more concerned with excellent looks and cutting-edge tech goodies at a great price, you cannot beat this car.

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  GOOD CAR - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By LIDYPR - January 10 - 10:00 am

  THIS HAS BEEN THE BEST CAR I HAVE EVER HAD IN MY LIFE. ITS REALLY COOL TO DRIVE AND IT IS REALLY ENJOYABLE TO HAVE. I BEEN REALY HAPPY SINCE I HAVE IT THE CAR IS GOOD ON GAS AND ALL THAT WONDERFUL THINGS. IF PEOPLE ASK ME WHAT TYPE OF CAR THEY SHOULD BUY ILL SAY THE MITSUBISHI LANCER.

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  Lancer - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Relic - January 10 - 10:00 am

  Tested the Civic,slightly more money,I found it less refined.The Lancer beat it ,in my eyes.Thats coming from a guy who just bought an Odyssey.

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  Good Stuff - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By C.D. - January 10 - 10:00 am

  Just got a new one, so far it is great. Smallish engine but enough power to move when it has to. But the big test is how it handles in the snow, wont find that out for a couple months!

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  Should have read here first - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Nebraska - January 8 - 10:00 am

  Why oh why did I not check here first! This car is a joke; my kids RC car has more power and is in all likelihood more comfortable. For Gods sake what is in the console armrest - concrete? Cause there sure as hell is not padding. If, and it is a big "IF" this car had ANY redeeming qualities it would be the mileage, but who cares about mileage at the great expense of power. If you plan on passing anyone, make sure they are either riding a bicycle (and it better not be Lance Armstrong) or they are a little old lady on a motorized cart, other than that, youll never make it. Had the car for 9-months and I will never get those 9-mos back.

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  MY FIRST IMPORT CAR - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By ManagerMJK - January 4 - 2:00 am

  After owning more than 10 brand new American cars over a 20 year time span I deceided to buy my first import. I can only say this......I plan to drive this car for 10 years. Its incredible. Looks, functionability, practical & value priced.