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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  2005 Mitsubishi Lancer - 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Defero - August 15 - 2:10 am

  After careful consideration against other manufacturers, I chose the Lancer and I must say Im extrememly pleased. It gets great gas mileage (as long as you dont go crazy), and is very peppy for 120 hp. I bought the manual to fully capitalize on power, good decision. It has excellent performance around corners, and is suprisingly quiet on the highway. Also, what took me buy suprise was the space in the cabin. Ive had six full grown individuals in my car and everyone was comfortable. I have the convenience package, cruise control, power everything, and its definitely worth the money, I do a lot of highway driving.

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  not so great of a car - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By RallyStyle2003 - August 15 - 2:00 am

  Well I have had a bad experience owning this car from day one. No ABS available on this "sportier" model, but the step down does. I got in a serious accident within 3 months because I couldnt stop in time. It would have been plenty of room with ABS though. And horrible dealer treatment from day one. The service manager tells me "hey we dont build the cars, we just service them" and that because my bumper has already faded to an obviously different shade of white, that is normal and the kind of quality product that Mitusbishi produces. The "sales" side has lied to me constantly too. Just horrible.

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  Great Transportation And Style - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Dustin2 - August 10 - 2:00 am

  This vehiclepick up speed easily and the car interior design is superb. It has everuthing that i wanted.

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  Love this car - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By kazax01 - August 6 - 11:38 pm

  One of the best car you can buy for less than 30K new. Car is fast. AWD makes it any weather car. Exterior is beautiful and aggressive. Got a lot of compliments. Interior is nice, maybe not expensive materials but great quality.

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  My Lancer OZ - 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Brad - July 23 - 9:16 pm

  The only problem I have had with my Lancer now at 15,000 miles is that theres no aftermarket following for these cars. It will be very difficult to try to customise your Lancer and you WILL pay for your individualty. As is, it is an excellent car for the money. But if youre looking for a tuner car go ahead and move on or at least consider the Ralliart version.

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  A Great Car - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By tebeaudin - July 23 - 4:56 pm

  This car has exceeded all of the expectations I had when I purchased it. Mitsubishi is not known for its quality, but this car is very well built. The gas mileage has been a pleasant surprise but I havent given up any power. The car has quite a bit of zip that lets me hang with cars with much more power. It has a great ride overall.

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  Great Car!! - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Dan - July 17 - 5:23 pm

  Love this car. Ever since I saw this car I wanted it. Funny thing is I couldnt afford it. But when my old car was totaled. This was the first car I went to see. I just love the look of this car. Everything about it is great. The gas mileage could be better but other than that its a great car.

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  My 2009 Lancer GTS - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Rolando - July 11 - 4:43 am

  I just leased the 2009 Lancer GTS and looked at other compact, but sporty vehicles in this class, and I am sorry, there is no comparison. The exterior and interior are "A" class and the other dealers do not have anything that comes close. This is a keeper!

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  nice car but needs power - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Lancer_Racer - June 4 - 10:00 am

  its a real fun car to drive but it lacks at top speed it needs more horsepower. if you do get this car for racing plan to put a lot of work into it.

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  Best bang for the buck right now! - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Dan - May 26 - 5:36 pm

  Ive had this car now for about 9 months and am very happy. Eye-catching exterior and the interior is nice. It runs great and Im getting 30-35 mpg on the highway! The CVT takes getting used to and the engine is a bit loud. In normal city driving, it feels as if the transmission is slipping but you eventually get used to the CVT. If you need to get up to speed fast, the paddle shifters give you everything you need WHEN you need it! Sun and sound package is a GREAT upgrade! My biggest gripe is the rather large rear spoiler- it blocks your rear view quite a bit. Overall, a very nice car at a good price.