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 Backed Car - 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Roberto - November 13 - 7:00 pm

  Clutch assembly failed at 10,700 miles dealer and Mitsubishi say racing/abused clutch not a warranty item pay out of your pocket. Dealer even said I race my car with 3 baby seats in the back. HAHA Buyer beware of Mitsubishi clutch. Once again they are "Best backed cars in the world!" - Not.

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  Most reliable I have ever owned - 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Alan - October 14 - 10:00 am

  So here is the deal. I have had a slew of other cars and non of them can match up to the reliability and fuel mileage of this car. I have owned it for about 3 years and I have only had to do the basic maintenance stuff (Brakes, tires etc). I also get 38 MPG at 65 mph on the highway and about 30-32 around town. Not sure why anyone who wants a small car would spend thousands more on a civic or corolla when this car is just as good or better in some regards.

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  Hope you like spots!!! - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Lori Claar - April 17 - 4:16 pm

  My 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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  HORRIBLE - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Jacobo - January 27 - 10:00 am

  TOO MANY WARRANTY REPAIRS ALREADY. TOO MANY FACTORY DEFECTS BEFORE 6000 MILES

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  Some problems - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Laura - August 21 - 11:33 pm

  Ive had this car for two years and I do put a lot of miles on it annually. It ran great initially, but since I hit 90,000 miles Ive had to put about $2,000 in to repairs. front and rear axle, exhaust system, break pads and shoes 3-4 times in the last two years, transmission, etc. It is also extremely loud, the external noise I can hear with the windows rolled up is kind of ridiculous. It is extremely comfortable to sit in and fun to drive but not worth it anymore. Also, as I work in a city and have to parallel park, my car gets bumped around a lot be less contentious drivers. The thing dents as easily as a soda can! Theres a dent from someone having leaned against it!

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  You get what you pay for I guess - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By rwilliams148 - June 20 - 10:00 am

  I have had my 2008 Lancer GTS for almost two years now. At first it was great but at 61,000 miles trouble started. My blower motor has already went out and we just recently moved and now have a gravel road. I have dust coming inside the car from my glove box, all vents, my cd player, my steering wheel column, and all the doors. I contacted Mitsubishi about this and they will not do anything. It is a nice looking car but very cheaply made. My alignment has been fixed now 8 times (and I drive normally just more than most people). The steering wheel has started shaking extremely bad but the no one can seem to tell me why. Because of these reasons, I will not purchase another Mitsubishi.

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  Theres much better - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Nick - May 29 - 5:13 am

  Many complain that gas mileage is "poor under hard acceleration, no HID lights, no leather option, etc." This is an economy car people!!!! Of course mileage is bad when you drive aggressively, HIDs come on cars that are typically $25K+ (as well as leather). I will review this car for exactly what it is and against its competitors. The build quality is horrible. Paint is very bad as well. Mileage is excellent, though. Interior materials rattle, interior noise can be deafening. Its not "exciting" to drive, nor is it fast. SUVs smoked me at on-ramps. It looks good though. For the same price, VW Rabbit, Mazda 3, etc are all better choices. I got rid of my Lancer after 5 months.

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  Problems! - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By etipp98 - March 16 - 1:26 am

  I purchased this car thinking it would be reliable and would outlast all the American cars in the same price range. Well, I have owned the car for about 4 months now and am not pleased at all. The car looks great, gets good gas mileage, but works when it wants to. This past month I have had to take the car back to the dealership for the same problem. The car doesnt want to run in the cold and the engine starts to act erratically. The service engine light comes on and the same code keeps coming up, "Torque Monitoring". The Dealership says they cannot fix my car and neither can Mitsubishi at the moment so I am left with a car that is brand new and wont run in the cold weather. LEMON LAW!!!!

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  Soured On Mitsubishi By This Car, Money Pit - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By pxabstraction - December 5 - 3:29 pm

  Bought this at 2 years old with 30,000Km. Now has 80,000Km, 5 years old and Im selling it. Pros: Good mileage, comfortable, everything still works. Cons: CVT autos are HORRIBLE. Transmission is lazy and car is gutless. Engine is noisy. Chewed through 3 sets of 18" tires. Transmission cooler had to be replaced at 80,000Km, $1,500, should have lasted years more. Rear suspension needed $1,000 of work last year, also should have lasted longer. TMPS system cannot be disabled, does not show which tire is down, cannot remember more than one set of tires, constant paint chips, awful service. Car is a lemon. Very displeased. Will not buy Mitsubishi again.

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  Cheap and affordable. - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Bankerman - September 25 - 10:00 am

  Nice little car, looks are ok and all...My only wish is that Mitsubishi would feel good enough about the car to give it a 3YR-36,000 mile bumper to bumper AND a 5YR-60,000 mile power train warranty like Toyota and Nissan does. If Mitsubishi doesnt want to STAND behind THEIR OWN VEHICLE for longer than 36/36,000...then why should I? I mean, I could have bought an extra warranty, but why should I when Toyota and Nissan gives it for free.