2002-2006 Mitsubishi Lancer: Full Review

Regular Lancers are adequate performers with a manual transmission. The automatic delivers fairly prompt downshifts, to help prevent alarming moments when passing or merging. But it dulls acceleration at any speed. With either transmission, performance is stronger with the 2.4-liter engine that arrived for 2004. Mitsubishi's Evolution is a true hot rod, capable of accelerating to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds. Unfortunately, it lacks low-end power and suffers turbo lag at lower speeds. Fuel economy varies according to model. A test O-Z with manual shift averaged 26.4 mpg. Evolution models require premium fuel and averaged 18 mpg in mostly city driving, versus 22.8 mpg for mainly highway travel. Lancers ride quite comfortably for a subcompact. They're stable and composed, though dips and bumps at highway speeds can cause minor bounce. The Evolution is quite firm, but not unbearably harsh. Ralliart models jiggle a bit on washboard surfaces. Mainstream models are econocar competent in the steering/handling department. Body lean is noticeable, but not excessive, and you can expect fail-safe front-drive models. Grip is fairly good, but doesn't seem markedly better on slightly wider O-Z and LS tires. Steering effort is natural, though one test O-Z had a nervous, unsettled feel at highway speeds. Ralliarts promise more agile, responsive driving fun. An Evolution delivers laser-sharp handling and tenacious all-wheel-drive grip, but suffers from a rather large turning circle. Stopping power is adequate, but ABS should have been offered on all models. Wind noise and tire whine at highway speeds don't prevent easy conversation. The base engine is smooth and fairly refined under hard acceleration, emitting mild high-rpm boom. Evolutions are quite noisy even in low-effort driving. Instruments and controls are generally clear and handy, in a simple layout. Audio buttons are slightly undersized, and the dashboard-mounted clock may wash out in direct sunlight. The O-Z's white-faced primary gauges are slightly easier to read than a base model's gray-background dials, and the O-Z interior is trimmed for a sportier look. Plastics are not that classy, regardless of model, but cabin materials are otherwise durable-looking and inoffensive. Doors and the trunklid close with a metallic resonance. Front occupants can expect good, tall-adult room up front on comfortable, supportive seats. The driver gets a standard tilt steering wheel and height-adjustable seat (except in the Evolution), and enjoys good outward visibility. Evolution and Ralliart models have supportive sport seats with extra side bolstering, but the Evolution's huge rear spoiler can block the view astern. Backseat space is average for a subcompact, but not cramped for two medium-size adults. Head and knee clearance are snug for tall riders, but foot space is good. The seat is a bit too firm and flat for best support, but not uncomfortable. Cabin width--or lack of it--squeezes three adults. Lancers have a fairly large trunk, but the opening narrows at the bottom and lid hinges intrude into the cargo area. Most models have a split-folding seatback, but pass-through to the trunk is very small. Wagons are useful load-haulers.

Value for the Money
Tepid acceleration with the base engine is the Lancer's only big fault, but mainstream models offer little to lure buyers away from higher-profile rivals like the Ford Focus and Honda Civic. Subpar resale value, on the other hand, translates to moderate used-car prices. Delivering rowdy fun, the Evolution chased Subaru's WRX for the hearts and minds of the performance-minded, fast-and-furious crowd.