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2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Full Review
Date Published: 4/15/08
Also in the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Review:
1.
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4.
5.
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Mitsubishi Lancer Full Review
7.
8.
9.
2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
Sneak Peek
The 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer receives a new model and more available power. Front-wheel-drive Lancer DE and ES trims are offered with a 152-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. The front-drive GTS model has a 168-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine. DE, ES and GTS are available with manual or automatic transmission. The Lancer Ralliart has all-wheel drive and a 235-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Lancer Evolution is also all-wheel drive and comes in GSR and MR trims, each with a 295-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder. GSRs have a 5-speed manual transmission; MRs have a 6-speed automatic. Available safety features include ABS, antiskid system (Evolution only), front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. GTS has a firmer suspension and sporty body trim. Lancer GTS, Ralliart, and Evolution MR are available with a touch-screen navigation system and a 30-gigabyte hard drive for storage and playback of digital audio files. This report is based on evaluations of the 2008 Lancer and Lancer Evolution. We have not yet tested a 2009 Lancer Ralliart.
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2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Fuel economy (exc Evolution) | Acceleration (CVT) |
| Steering/handling (GTS, Evolution) | Engine noise |
| Acceleration (Evolution) | Ride (Evolution) |
| All-wheel drive (Evolution) | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
The 152-hp Lancers only have adequate pickup with manual transmission, and they're borderline sluggish with the CVT. All feel weakest when pulling away from a stop. Acceleration from rest is a sore point on both Evolution versions as well, though they're rockets once underway. The MR's automatic transmission is actually a twin-clutch manual that functions like an automatic (there's no clutch pedal), and it also has steering-wheel shift paddles to facilitate manual gear changes. On preview vehicles tested, the MR's transmission took a moment to engage when shifted into Drive or Reverse, and there was no "creep" after letting off the brake at a stop. Upshifts and downshifts were quick and timely, whether in automatic mode or shifted manually. No opportunity to test Lancer Ralliart.
| ES, CVT | GTS, manual | Evolution GSR, manual | Evolution MR, auto | Class Average |
| 3 | 4 | 8 | 8 | 4.9 |
The 152-hp Lancers only have adequate pickup with manual transmission, and they're borderline sluggish with the CVT. All feel weakest when pulling away from a stop. Acceleration from rest is a sore point on both Evolution versions as well, though they're rockets once underway. The MR's automatic transmission is actually a twin-clutch manual that functions like an automatic (there's no clutch pedal), and it also has steering-wheel shift paddles to facilitate manual gear changes. On preview vehicles tested, the MR's transmission took a moment to engage when shifted into Drive or Reverse, and there was no "creep" after letting off the brake at a stop. Upshifts and downshifts were quick and timely, whether in automatic mode or shifted manually. No opportunity to test Lancer Ralliart.
Fuel Economy
In Consumer Guide testing, Lancer GTS models with manual transmission averaged 25.7-27.2 mpg. 152-hp versions use regular-grade gas. No opportunity to measure fuel economy on Evolutions, which have a 14.5-gallon tank vs 15.3 and require premium-grade gas.
| ES, CVT | GTS, manual | Evolution GSR, manual | Evolution MR, auto | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 6 |
In Consumer Guide testing, Lancer GTS models with manual transmission averaged 25.7-27.2 mpg. 152-hp versions use regular-grade gas. No opportunity to measure fuel economy on Evolutions, which have a 14.5-gallon tank vs 15.3 and require premium-grade gas.
Ride Quality
DE and ES models are absorbent and capable thanks to smart suspension tuning, a solid-feeling structure, and sensible 16-inch tires. The GTS rides a bit harsher due to its firmer suspension and 18-inch tires. Evolutions are stiff, though not as bad as they used to be, with the MR being slightly more compliant over bumps.
| ES, CVT | GTS, manual | Evolution GSR, manual | Evolution MR, auto | Class Average |
| 6 | 5 | 3 | 3 | 5.1 |
DE and ES models are absorbent and capable thanks to smart suspension tuning, a solid-feeling structure, and sensible 16-inch tires. The GTS rides a bit harsher due to its firmer suspension and 18-inch tires. Evolutions are stiff, though not as bad as they used to be, with the MR being slightly more compliant over bumps.
Steering/Handling/Braking
The DE and ES exhibit decent grip in turns, but steering is not especially direct or communicative, and though the brakes feel strong, nosedive is evident in quick stops. The tauter GTS is more agile and fun. Evolutions shine, with quick steering, tenacious grip, and anchor-like brakes, though they suffer from a wide turning radius.
| ES, CVT | GTS, manual | Evolution GSR, manual | Evolution MR, auto | Class Average |
| 5 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 6 |
The DE and ES exhibit decent grip in turns, but steering is not especially direct or communicative, and though the brakes feel strong, nosedive is evident in quick stops. The tauter GTS is more agile and fun. Evolutions shine, with quick steering, tenacious grip, and anchor-like brakes, though they suffer from a wide turning radius.
Quietness
Wind noise is well-checked, but coarse-surface tire thrum is fairly high in all models. Lancer's crude engine note is a sore point. It's especially intrusive in rapid acceleration or at higher speeds, though in the Evolution, it's masked somewhat by a sporty whistle from the turbocharger.
| ES, CVT | GTS, manual | Evolution GSR, manual | Evolution MR, auto | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.6 |
Wind noise is well-checked, but coarse-surface tire thrum is fairly high in all models. Lancer's crude engine note is a sore point. It's especially intrusive in rapid acceleration or at higher speeds, though in the Evolution, it's masked somewhat by a sporty whistle from the turbocharger.
Controls
In the main instrument pod, a large, clear speedometer and tachometer flank a smaller, less-legible electronic information display. The climate controls are large and simple but are a bit low for easy access. Some testers found the audio controls to be an uncomfortable reach and its dashboard screen hard to read in sunny conditions. Lancer's touch-screen navigation system unfortunately also absorbs most audio functions, but the system is easy enough to learn and program.
| ES, CVT | GTS, manual | Evolution GSR, manual | Evolution MR, auto | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 5.9 |
In the main instrument pod, a large, clear speedometer and tachometer flank a smaller, less-legible electronic information display. The climate controls are large and simple but are a bit low for easy access. Some testers found the audio controls to be an uncomfortable reach and its dashboard screen hard to read in sunny conditions. Lancer's touch-screen navigation system unfortunately also absorbs most audio functions, but the system is easy enough to learn and program.
Details
The cabin decor is solid enough, but the materials are nothing special, particularly on the pricey Evolution. Lancer's doors close with a tinny clang.
| ES, CVT | GTS, manual | Evolution GSR, manual | Evolution MR, auto | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.9 |
The cabin decor is solid enough, but the materials are nothing special, particularly on the pricey Evolution. Lancer's doors close with a tinny clang.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Leg space is sufficient for six-footers, but taller folks are likely to want more head clearance, especially beneath the sunroof housing. The GTS and Evolution have sport seats that hug tightly in fast corners; seats in the other models are unexceptional for shape and support. A height-adjustable driver's seat is standard on all Lancers except the Evolutions, where shorter drivers sit low. But regardless of model, high windowsills impart a slightly closed-in feeling. Outward visibility aft and to the right-rear isn't great, and it's made worse by the available rear spoiler.
| ES, CVT | GTS, manual | Evolution GSR, manual | Evolution MR, auto | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.4 |
Leg space is sufficient for six-footers, but taller folks are likely to want more head clearance, especially beneath the sunroof housing. The GTS and Evolution have sport seats that hug tightly in fast corners; seats in the other models are unexceptional for shape and support. A height-adjustable driver's seat is standard on all Lancers except the Evolutions, where shorter drivers sit low. But regardless of model, high windowsills impart a slightly closed-in feeling. Outward visibility aft and to the right-rear isn't great, and it's made worse by the available rear spoiler.
Room/Comfort (rear)
The seat is supportive, but space is cozy for two medium-size adults, let alone three. Headroom is limited, as is legroom if the front seats are set very far back. Entry and exit are also a bit tight, though OK for the class.
| ES, CVT | GTS, manual | Evolution GSR, manual | Evolution MR, auto | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.3 |
The seat is supportive, but space is cozy for two medium-size adults, let alone three. Headroom is limited, as is legroom if the front seats are set very far back. Entry and exit are also a bit tight, though OK for the class.
Cargo Room
Lancer's trunk has a useful shape but isn't that large, and the Evolution's is slightly smaller due to that model's all-wheel-drive hardware. Trunks also lack height for taller cargo, as does the trunk opening. Useful cabin storage includes large front-door map pockets with bottle holders.
| ES, CVT | GTS, manual | Evolution GSR, manual | Evolution MR, auto | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 5.3 |
Lancer's trunk has a useful shape but isn't that large, and the Evolution's is slightly smaller due to that model's all-wheel-drive hardware. Trunks also lack height for taller cargo, as does the trunk opening. Useful cabin storage includes large front-door map pockets with bottle holders.
Value within Class
The eagerly awaited Evolution models are strong performers that aren't punishing on the street, but high prices detract from their appeal. Other Lancers ride and handle well enough, but their engine lags in power and refinement, and cost-cutting is evident in too many places. Mitsubishi's record of weak resale values doesn't help Lancer's cause either.
| ES, CVT | GTS, manual | Evolution GSR, manual | Evolution MR, auto | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 6.2 |
The eagerly awaited Evolution models are strong performers that aren't punishing on the street, but high prices detract from their appeal. Other Lancers ride and handle well enough, but their engine lags in power and refinement, and cost-cutting is evident in too many places. Mitsubishi's record of weak resale values doesn't help Lancer's cause either.
Total Score
| ES, CVT | GTS, manual | Evolution GSR, manual | Evolution MR, auto | Class Average |
| 51 | 52 | 53 | 52 | 58.6 |
Scores for all Compact Cars
| Low Score | 51 | |
| Average Score | 58 | |
| High Score | 71 |
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2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 06/08/2007
Coming soon.
Please check back for more information and Consumer Guide's full review.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
Optional Equipment
No factory options.
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2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Mitsubishi Lancer | Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution |
| Wheelbase, in. | 103.7 | 104.3 |
| Overall Length, in. | 180.0 | 177.0 |
| Overall Width, in. | 69.4 | 71.3 |
| Overall Height, in. | 58.7 | 58.3 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2922 | 3517 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 11.6 | 6.9 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 15.3 | 14.5 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.6 | 40.6 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.2 | 42.5 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 36.9 | 36.9 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 36.1 | 33.3 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| sohc I4 | dohc I4 | Turbocharged dohc I4 | Turbocharged dohc I4 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 2.0 /122 | 2.4 /144 | 2.0 /122 | 2.0 /122 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 152 @ 6000 | 168 @ 6000 | 235 @ | 291 @ 6500 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 146 @ 4250 | 167 @ 4100 | 253 @ | 300 @ 4400 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
||||
| 5-speed manual | 22/30 | 21/28 | --/-- | 16/22 |
| 6-speed automatic | --/-- | --/-- | NA/NA | 17/22 |
| CVT automatic | 22/28 | 21/27 | --/-- | --/-- |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Mitsubishi Lancer | Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution |
Coming soon.
Please check back for more information and Consumer Guide's full review.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Built in:
Japan
Drivewheels:
front-wheel drive
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
Also in the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Mitsubishi Lancer Full Review
7.
8.
9.
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