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 car I have ever owned - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
By jgskains - January 29 - 10:17 pmAlthough the it didnt have the horsepower I was looking for, it more than made up for it in every other aspect. It was more comfortable than other cars in its class. It was quick, fun, and handled like a dream. It never gave me any trouble and aside from the color I got stuck with I had no regrets. I dont recommend the automatic transmission I read lots of complaints about a lack of power. But my 5 speed had plenty of power. In the end it proved itself to be extremely safe. After hitting a retaining wall and rolling mine 3 times I walked away with out injury. I love this car and I will miss this car. Eventually I will come back to this car.
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2006 Lancer Ralliart - 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer
By davidl - January 27 - 4:46 pmThe car does everything well! Just dont think you have an EVO! This is a great car, it handles great and is very fun!
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HORRIBLE - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
By Jacobo - January 27 - 10:00 amTOO MANY WARRANTY REPAIRS ALREADY. TOO MANY FACTORY DEFECTS BEFORE 6000 MILES
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I love my Lancer!! - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
By sweetheartkillz - January 24 - 12:46 amIve had this car for almost a year now. I drove my pile of junk 2007 G6 all the down from NW Iowa to Kansas City to get this car. I love it!! Ive had no problems except some jerk keyed it. : ( My brother ran his car along the side of it, but thats been fixed. Its sleek, sexy, faster than my Bfs Mustang. I agree a 6th gear would be nice but thats the only thing! If you want a quiet car, buy the automatic. Manuals are naturally louder. I havent added anything to this car, yet. Also has awesome speakers. And as for the rattling in the door thats only from the junk you have in there, if you take all the CDs and stuff out it stops. Mine is black by the way. No paint chipping.
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I love my new GTS! - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
By AbbyB - January 16 - 4:43 amI bought this car on Saturday and I absolutely love it!
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Excellent car, 97% Made in Japan - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
By Tekken - January 15 - 2:00 amThis car has great handling and interior/exterior design, Gas mileage is good. 36000k miles on the car and still have had no problems even once! This car handles well in snow as well. It is also very roomy inside. I take care of it as much as I can, regular oil change, wheel alignment, engine additives, fuel system cleaners, if you take care of the car it will take care of you. I will recommend this car for anyone who doesnt want to pay much and yet have a reliable and good looking car. Althought this car could use more horepower but then again I can see why the Evo is the next step up.
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Sporty Economy Ralliart - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
By GTRBLUES4 - January 15 - 2:00 amI just bought the car and it has been a blast. I wait to reach that 2,500 mile mark so I can really start having fun with it. If Im going 70 on the freeway, and its time to pass someone, a touch of the gas and it lets me know its moving. Thats some hefty torque.
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THE BEST THERE IS - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
By BRUCE - January 8 - 10:00 amI HAVE OWED MY LANCER 11 MONTHS. I HAD BEEN SHOPPING FOR A NEW VEHICLE FOR A FEW MONTHS. I HAD BEEN EVERYWHERE CHRYSLER, JEEP, VW, EVEN FORD. BUT WHEN I SAW THAT CAR SITTING ON THE SHOW ROOM FLOOR IT WAS LOVE AT FIRST SITE. I TEST DROVE IT AND THAT IS ALL IT TOOK I HAD TO HAVE THAT CAR. EVER SINCE IT HAS BEEN THE BEST VEHICLE I HAVE EVER HAD. I HAVE HAD A CHEVY, DODGE, JEEP, AND A VW AND THERE IS NO COMPARISON THIS CAR IS SO GREAT. IT HAS EVERYTHING I WANTED AND THE PRICE I WAS SO SHOCKED THAT IT WAS SO CHEAP. I AM SO HAPPY WITH MY CAR THAT SOMETIMES I JUST LIKE TO GET IN IT AND DRIVE FOR THE FUN OF IT.
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THE BEST THERE IS - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
By Bruce - January 8 - 10:00 amI HAVE OWED MY LANCER 11 MONTHS. I HAD BEEN SHOPPING FOR A NEW VEHICLE FOR A FEW MONTHS. I HAD BEEN EVERYWHERE CHRYSLER, JEEP, VW, EVEN FORD. BUT WHEN I SAW THAT CAR SITTING ON THE SHOW ROOM FLOOR IT WAS LOVE AT FIRST SITE. I TEST DROVE IT AND THAT IS ALL IT TOOK I HAD TO HAVE THAT CAR. EVER SINCE IT HAS BEEN THE BEST VEHICLE I HAVE EVER HAD. I HAVE HAD A CHEVY, DODGE, JEEP, AND A VW AND THERE IS NO COMPARISON THIS CAR IS SO GREAT. IT HAS EVERYTHING I WANTED AND THE PRICE I WAS SO SHOCKED THAT IT WAS SO CHEAP. I AM SO HAPPY WITH MY CAR THAT SOMETIMES I JUST LIKE TO GET IN IT AND DRIVE FOR THE FUN OF IT.
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Great Car - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
By ryans93 - December 20 - 11:38 amWe have owned the Lancer since it was new and it has been a fantastic car. It still looks great, gets good gas mileage, is fun to drive, and little has gone wrong with it. The build quality is excellent and the interior has held up extremely well with almost no rattles and still tight after 9 years and 150k. Other than regular maintenance, few problems have arisen on the car, and its been very reliable.
