Mitsubishi Lancer Review

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer ES Sedan Shown

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 pretty fun to drive, although the base 152-horsepower four-cylinder engine could use a little more oomph. Fortunately, the optional 2.4-liter, 168-hp four is far smoother and more powerful. All in all, count the Lancer as one model that has greatly improved from generation to generation. While we would still suggest looking at other compact models as well, the latest-generation Lancer is an attractive, sporty entry in this perpetually changing and rapidly improving segment.

Current Mitsubishi Lancer

Introduced for 2008, the current Mitsubishi Lancer is a compact sedan available in DE, ES and GTS trim levels. DE and ES models are powered by a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine that makes 152 hp and 146 pound-feet of torque. In California and California-emissions states, these models are Partial Zero Emissions Vehicles (PZEV) with a downgraded 143 hp and 143 lb-ft of torque. The GTS model receives a 2.4-liter four that puts out 168 hp and 167 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on all models. The optional automatic is Mitsubishi's first continuously variable transmission (CVT) -- it replaces the previous-generation Lancer's four-speed tranny and actually gets 1 mpg better on the highway than Lancers with the five-speed manual.

The current Lancer is further proof that economy sedans are no longer just "basic" transportation. Along with an increasing number of other models in the sub-$20,000 market, Mitsubishi's compact sedan is offered with an impressive array of high-tech features that up until recently were reserved for luxury automobiles. Keyless ignition, automatic climate control, a touchscreen navigation system, Bluetooth phone connectivity and a nine-speaker Rockford Fosgate audio system are just some of the niceties that are standard or optional on the three trim levels. However, the Lancer still falls somewhat short of its fellow Japanese competitors in terms of material quality.

In reviews of the current Mitsubishi Lancer, we've been impressed with its improved 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 unless you absolutely must have your ratios selected for you. On the whole, though, for a sedan that was once regarded as just a second- or third-rate econobox, the Lancer has come a long way and can now be mentioned in the same breath as segment leaders.

Changes to the current Lancer include the introduction of the pleasantly peppy 2.4-liter engine for GTS models in '09. The '08 Lancer GTS was saddled with the anemic base 2.0-liter four. As such, if you're in the market for a Lancer GTS, we'd advise skipping the '08 version.

Past Mitsubishi Lancer

The Mitsubishi Lancer 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 introduction in 2004 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.

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