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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2013 Lancer SE AWC - 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer
By 955imarko - June 14 - 2:49 amBought a new 2013 in June, and have done 15000 trouble free kilometers in the coldest Canadian winter for 50 years! Car is used mainly for longer trips, including trip to Kelowna BC from Manitoba over Christmas. AWC system is excellent, sure footed, and goes through snow when you would not think possible ( winter tyres fitted) I love the flappy paddles to help select the right "gear" for the situation, or for that extra burst of acceleration. Heated seats are fantastic and very comfortable for a 12 hour drive, with plenty of support. The heater system is bionic !! The car looks fresh despite how long the body style has been around, and that big spoiler makes parking easy.
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Impressive Car - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
By lhvang - May 31 - 7:46 amI own the GTS 4-door sedan CVT. First off, I have owned my car for a little over 2 months now. This car is great overall. I have the nav package w/sun and sound, and those things are just amazing. Dont get the car without it. The bluetooth for mobile phones isnt perfect, but its a great addition to the car. People can hear me clearly, just at a low volume. Also, the car handles like a dream. I havent driven it in snow, but its great in the rain. Ive driven other cars in rain and always feel like Im going to lose control, but not with this car. Also, the mpg is better than the advertised value. I am averaging 28 mpg city driving. This car is one thats worth checking out!
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GREAT CAR - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
By joey povlosky - May 24 - 10:00 amEXCELLENT CAR FOR A FAMILY OF FOUR TO FIVE. NICE INTERIOR. ONLY BAD THING ABOUT THE CAR IS THE HUP CAPS.
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2009 Lancer - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
By 09lancer - May 20 - 9:50 pmLove the car so far. Graphite Gray. Had an old car with a huge V8. Gas mileage is not perfect but much better than old car by a large margin. Interior has nice style but the quality does lack behind. I thought interior in GTS was better than the ES model. It is a comfortable car for me, Im 5"10. Spoiler does block the view but you get used to it. For a 4 cyl it is pretty powerful, but it could have more power. The back seat has a decent amount of room along with the trunk for a compact sedan. Overall a pretty decent car for the price. Got mine for a great deal so cant complain. If looking for a cheaper compact sedan that has a little bit of sportiness, the Lancer is for you.
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Not Too Pleased - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
By donnat - May 13 - 10:00 amThe absolute WORST thing about this car is that both front doors make an awful rattling noise when you shut them. Im told that itll cost me $100 just to look at them...then the price keeps going up from there. Also, the paint job is HORRIBLE! Ive never seen so many little scratches on a car of mine. (Guess thats because I always had a Toyota).My bottom line is ...I cant see what all my teens friends see in it. I guess they like the commercials.
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Mitsubishi GTS - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
By karron - May 11 - 6:16 amLove Mitsubishis. Bought GTS on Governments cash for clunkers program. Love the handling, this thing handles, really is a joy to drive, & being a woman dont think I drive slow. Best looking car in its class, always get lots of positive comments about it.
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Woo First CAR!! - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
By InCuBaSs - May 10 - 2:00 amIf your not looking for car that so over fast. Even with 4 cyl it still has good pick up the interior is very sporty, the exterior is fresh and different fom others. you wont be seeing alot of these on the road cause not everyone can afford its a good first time car for younger people like myself the top of its class and is fun to drive!
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Whats with the fake wood trim? - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
By EZPiano123 - April 27 - 1:33 pmThis is a very affordable starter car. The standard transmission on this car is sensitive but still fun to drive. Stock speakers are nice, all I had to do was increase the flow of power to them with a new deck. The only thing that bugs me about this outstanding vehicle is that damn wood trim in the es model. It doesnt mesh with anything else in the interior of the car or the exterior. I just wanna rip it out and paint it to match the gun metal-ish color surrounding the deck. Grrr! Besides that, an increase in power would be nice and Id like to get a cold air intake installed to get the gas mileage over the 30 mpg hump. And the tiny tires NEED to be replaced. Overall great car.
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Hope you like spots!!! - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
By Lori Claar - April 17 - 4:16 pmMy Lancer looks awesome with the body kit straight from the manufacturer and the exceptional look of the front end. But I live in central Pennsylvania and my car is not looking good after only three months of winter. I was told to purchase mud flaps to prevent chipping, and when I went to purchase the flaps after I bought the car, the dealership informed me they do not make them for the ES body type. Now not only is it chipping but there are 8inch strips of paint by the back doors that are gone. THIS IS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY BECAUSE IT WAS BROUGHT ON BY AN OUTSIDE SOURCE. Do you think it may have something to do with the paint or the way the car was designed????????
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Good car but fuel economy problem - 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
By Jen - April 3 - 8:30 pmThat car is very nice, smooth to drive, and perfect for young people. It is fun to drive anywhere and show off the color yellow.
