2008 Mitsubishi Lancer First Steer

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer – First Steer

tc-vrx-open.jpg

“The new Lancer is the most accomplished small car I’ve driven in years and easily sets a new benchmark in the category”

Mitsubishi are about to release a new weapon and it’s not the EVO X. I’m talking about the 2008 stock standard Lancer range. That’s the ES, VR and VRX.

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer VRX

Style wise, it knocks everything else for six. In Red or Silver and in VRX guise, you’d be forgiven for thinking you just saw the EXO X on the road; such is the resemblance.

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer VRX

tc-evo-x-front.jpg

tc-evo-x-siderear.jpg

Price and equipment wise, it only gets better. At just $20,990, the entry- level ES model will have the rest of the small car field in damage control.

Here’s why. Active Stability Control and Traction Control are standard across the entire Lancer range. And it doesn’t stop there when it comes to safety equipment.

tc-lancer-asc.jpg

All Lancer models also come with Dual Stage driver and front passenger air bags, Driver knee airbag, side and curtain airbags (optional on the ES but standard on VR & VRX) and ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist.

tc-srs-vxr.jpg

tc-srs-dash-lancer.jpg

That’s the active safety systems accounted for, at least in part, but occupant safety is literally built into the Lancer’s body structure which Mitsubishi call Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution or RISE. The system not only deflects energy loads in severe side and rear crashes, but also protects the fuel system if you get hit from behind.

tc-vrx-side.jpg

The list of goodies even in the base model is surely class leading, but opt for the VR and VRX at $25,290 and $28,990 respectively, and the standard kit reads like an options list for a European prestige car.

tc-vrx-cockpit.jpg

We grabbed the first manual transmission car we could get our hands on, which happened to wear an ES badge. It’s a five-speed box, which slips easily through the ratios and is mated to an all-new 2.0-litre 16-valve MIVEC engine.

tc-lancer-eng.jpg

Power and torque outputs of 113kW and 198Nm are near identical to the larger and less green 2.4-litre MIVEC engine that it replaces.

tc-lancer-es-open.jpg

Once warmed up on a good stretch of uncrowded country road we dropped the right pedal and held the gear ratios to a gentle 5000rpm and the Lancer was moving with some urgency as we shifted into fifth.

tc-lancer-es-rear-drive.jpg

Most ratios are well spaced although, I felt second gear was a little long in the tooth (no pun intended). Third through fifth though, are magic, and highway cruising at peak speed limits is effortless.

tc-es-driving-front.jpg

Cruise control is standard, via simple steering wheel mounted buttons and was highly responsive to all inputs.

tc-es-steering.jpg

At 100km/h we were averaging between 5.0-6.0L/100kms (that’s 91 octane unleaded) and engine noise was barely noticeable over insignificant wind and tyre noise. Put those extraordinary figures down to the smaller capacity powertrain.

Ride and handling are first rate with a generally smooth and compliant ride for driver and passenger even over poor road surfaces. We hit some blind dips in the road at a rapid velocity and were expecting the car to bottom out. Not a chance.

tc-es-side-road.jpg

Front suspension is a MacPherson strut layout as per previous generation Lancer although, reduced weight and enhanced rigidity means all new components.

On the back – a new multi-link rear suspension ensures the sort of ride comfort you would normally expect on a more expensive and perhaps larger car.

Apart from the enhanced ride qualities – this is a much more rigid car than that which it replaces. How’s this for stiff.

Torsional rigidity is up a massive 56 per cent and bending rigidity increased by 50 per cent. But here’s the stat makes it all good. The new Lancer exceeds body stiffness of the current Lancer Evolution 1X and that’s downright astounding.

Steering is precise although no more so than the previous Lancer which didn’t need fixing in any way. However, at speed and into some nice curvy stretches, the boost could have been reduced – slightly.
The old Lancer interior was rubbish. They knew it and we knew it.

Mitsubishi have listened well though. The interior fit out on the new car is inline with more expensive Japanese cars although, some plastics are a little on the hard side.

tc-lancer-int.jpg

Overall though, the cockpit is a nice place to be, with an upmarket/sporty feel with metallic/carbon-fibre look trim and switchgear.

The ergonomics are well thought out, with the exception of the handbrake lever, which is awkward to pull up. Seats all round are supportive, comfortable and well bolstered. It’s a wider track and longer car than the superseded model, so there is plenty rear legroom and headroom for those up to 190cm or a little over.

tc-rear-seats-lancer.jpg

tc-6040.jpg

For those of you who fear a manual gearbox – shame because this is a good one – all is fine. You can opt for the CVT – which stands for Continuously Variable Transmission, which is a form of auto transmission without gears if that makes any sense.

tc-cvt.jpg

It’s a clever system of pulleys and belts, which requires no conventional gear changes, just a smooth power delivery right through its ratio range. It’s also a system, which generally offers better fuel economy than a standard 6-speed auto, as its always high on the torque band, so the throttle response is usually quicker. The only time that doesn’t hold up is if you need to floor it from a standstill, which is a protracted affair.

In-gear acceleration is where the CVT shines. If your travelling along at a lazy 3000rpm and need to overtake a dirty great B-Double as was required on our test drive, then in less than a second, you’ll see the tacho hit 5500rpm and you’re gone!

Next up was the VR, which is distinguished by its 16-inch alloys and small boot lip spoiler and a host of interior upgrades, which it shares with the top spec VRX.

tv-vr-driving.jpg

You pick up some upmarket features such as; Automatic climate control, Auto headlamps, rain sensing wipers and a better sounding audio unit with 6 disc changer and six speakers.

tc-vr-radio.jpg

Although the 16-inch alloys on the VR feel better, into and out of the bendy bits – it’s essentially the same mechanical set-up as the ES albeit slightly heavier at 1320kg up from 1295kg.

tc-vr-close.jpg

Naturally we saved the best until last. The VRX sits on some tasty ten-spoke 18-inch alloys shod with Advan 215/45 rubber. There’s also an EVO style rear spoiler along with a few other subtle design highlights.

tc-vrx-badge.jpg

tc-vrx-rearspolier.jpg

If you choose the CVT transmission you find a set of magnesium paddle shifters that look frighteningly similar to those found on a few very expensive cars we have driven.

tc-vrx-paddles.jpg

Sport-tuned suspension and larger 16-inch brake discs front and rear round out the performance/handling bits.

You won’t need to use a key with the VRX either. Just carry the key fob on your person and the car will unlock for you and then just turn the starter as if it were a key and off you go.

You’ll also pick up an easy to use Bluetooth hands free phone with voice recognition and steering wheel controls, which will make life easier.

tc-bluetooth.jpg

Options are a must with Mitsubishi – particularly those on offer with the VXR. The Rockford Fosgate 650 watt, 9 speaker (massive subwoofer in boot) audio unit is yours for just $750. Similarly, the sunroof option for the VR and VRX is only $1600.

tc-fosgate.jpg

No question that the VRX felt the most planted on the road and the car you would most like to own in this range budget permitting.

Brakes were more than responsive on the ES and VR but they were better on the VRX pulling up well at high speed although the drive route did not afford an opportunity to test brake fade.

tcvrxbrake.jpg

“When you factor in price points, driveability, styling, features and safety spec across the Lancer range – Mitsubishi had better start recalculating their Lancer supply numbers – up”

BY Anthony Crawford

Location: Home / Behind the Wheel, Car Reviews, First Steer, Lancer, Mitsubishi / ...

Print it:

- Email This Post Digg  del.icio.us

60 Responses to “2008 Mitsubishi Lancer First Steer”

  1. Nick Says:

    Nice front end, but shame about the rear. The hatch concept looks like a winner though. If that makes production with a turbo AWD variant, it will turn the hot hatch market on it’s head, especially with the 10 year/160k warranty.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  2. Baji Says:

    This is a nice looking car. But I think it only looks good in its upper spec models. the base model is ugly. How does the new lancer compare the the Mazda3?

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  3. Nick Says:

    Oh my god I want one. They all look good. Mitsu is on a winner!

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  4. Colonel Klink Says:

    OLD Galant and Alfa Romeo cross from rear end. Looks nice, inside unreal and if priced correct will sell very very well.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  5. Colonel Klink Says:

    … also tad newish Volvo. Still gels really well!

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  6. Paul Says:

    I think the Lancer is going to be very competitive, its pricing seems reasonable, it looks alrite and its feature list (knee airbags, CVT etc!) is prity amazing… not to mention their huge warranties.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  7. NRD80Y Says:

    Where’s the info on the GSR? Mitsubishi is still releasing one are they (or will it come out by Ralliart along with the Evo X?)

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  8. falcon Says:

    funny thing my anti-spam word is subaru!! I think subaru and mazda should be worried about this car it looks great, and by the sounds of it, it goes good to. If I had the money I would seriouly get one

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  9. Anthony Crawford Says:

    We beleive the next Lancer to hit our big Island will be the EVO X and that will be followed by a turbocharged Ralliart model. After that, it could be the Sportback in standard and Ralliart guise.

    stay tuned

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  10. Matt Says:

    It looks awesome. In my opinion heaps better than new Impreza / Corolla. Well done Mitsu!

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  11. MrIncredible Says:

    Good review, and good car, I dont know what Subaru is going todo when the Ralliart lands!

    Not to mention the STi vs the EVO, Mitsubishi are on the come back and Subaru seem a little out of puff!

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  12. Tony Says:

    what a good looking car! subaru better watch there backs!

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  13. capncrunnch Says:

    Nice review guys. Have liked the look of this since release in the US. 100% on the previous model.

    Do we have a complete list of options? Are we getting the SatNav here in Aus (I damn well hope so)!

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  14. Slim Shady Says:

    Bloody hell….I think you need to change the name of the site to Mitsubishi-Advise, a whole page on the new Lancer!? Are you guys getting a kick back or is Mitsu-shitty funding your next office party???

    I smell a “sell-out” based on 10 reviews in a row for one car from the same company!!! For Shame, tusk tusk.

    Oh, and I’m not a fan of Mitsubishi based on all the recalls they covered up and the fact that after 100K the rings decompress and the engine uses more oil than fuel….just my 2cents worth.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  15. Baji Says:

    Slim Shady i don’t think its fair that you are saying that. Caradvice comprehensively covers most things that happen within the automotive industry, and this just happens to be one of them. And i think the reason why the new lancer has gotten such a good review is because maybe, just maybe, it is actually a good car. I think a lot of people don’t mind this taking up the whole page, as a lot of people are anticipating the release of this model.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  16. 280zx Says:

    Yeah i was anticipating this model Baji but now im sick of the site of it … Next ..

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  17. Blue Blood Says:

    Grill looks like something out of Battlestar Gallactica.

    I don’t think looks a as refined as Impreza, Focus or Corrolla.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  18. Baji Says:

    :-O yeh i’ve just realised that there is a LOT of posts on the new lancer… a lot of it seems to be repeated. my apologies for not looking at it all. in my post before, i thought slim shady meant THIS post took up a lot of space.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  19. KC Says:

    Wow..

    I have a more powerful car with more features, and I want this. Now that’s a good product.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  20. alborz Says:

    Slim Shady, this is a massive model launch, the first lancer on Mitsu’s global platform, and given the number of emails we have got asking for info, we thought we’d cover it properly.

    We did the same with the Corolla, Aurion, Commodore etc, its the big models that get the coverage.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  21. nsx23 Says:

    Expect to see a riced up version with big chrome wheels and triple deck spoiler coming to a street near you.

    Anyway, if the standard lancer is this good, the evo will be mind blowing.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  22. Liam Says:

    For what it’s worth alborz, I was pleased there was in depth coverage and good idea splitting into subjects.

    Are the exterior driving pics actual CarAdvice road test pics?

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  23. Foggy Says:

    Congratulations to the whole CarAdvice Team on putting together such a comprehensive dossier of information.

    It is very much appreciated.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  24. Steven A Says:

    Slim Shady and the reset of you in denial.
    If you cant accept the facts about a revolutionary new Mitsubishi car and stop insulting this website with your unsabstantiated accusations of money under the table, dont bother contributing to this blog.
    All I can say is good work to the journo’s who have worked hard to supply the consumer all this unbiased information.
    The facts are clear, its a brilliant small to medium car that sets industry benchmarks.
    Dont bother responding to my comments as I dont give a!

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  25. Car videos Says:

    At least the choice for peopel that want to buy Evo or WRX is made easier since one is a hatchback and this has a trunk.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  26. Peter Says:

    Nice coverage of the new model, and almost makes me want to trade up from my current model VR-X (2006). However, I am keenly awaiting the arrival of the Ralliart and EVO X!

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  27. Chucky Says:

    The new Lancer is mind blowing. Especially the VRX model with the Rockford Fosgate audio option for only $750, you’d be crazy not to get it. I can see Lancer sales going well over the predicted 1500 sales a month.

    Performance wise it is going backwards compared to the old 2.4, but the features more than make up for it. Plus it has been reported there will be a 2.4 option later on.

    That being said, there is such a good variety of great quality cars in this segment, and yet so many people go for the Corolla. But hey, if they want to waste their money that’s their choice.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  28. Chucky Says:

    Oh, and what I meant above is you would be crazy not to get that option if you were buying a Lancer.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  29. RallyWhiz Says:

    Hi Guys,

    Those of you whos interested in taking a test drive..Tynan Motors has two VRs in stock at the moment..The sales guy just called me up to let me know

    Tynan Motors Sutherland
    642 Princes Highway Sutherland NSW 2232

    I am going to have a test drive today for sure..
    The Lancer was released to Dealers on Wednesday 19/09/07 at Luna Park..I wanted to go there but it was a closed door event I reckon and was only for dealers..Anyway the car is here.

    Also.. GSR will be here Q1 2008…and then the EVO X probably Q3 2008..

    Stay Tuned!!!

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  30. alwo Says:

    Great review. About half a year ago, I was looking for a new car and was close to buying a Mazda3 but after reading some news on the ‘08 Lancer I decided to wait a while. Looks like the Lancer VRX is a great car, so right now I will most likely be getting one when it comes out. However, I hope the reliability is good.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  31. origin Says:

    very Alfa inside and out – not too original – still a nice looking car though

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  32. ImportJap Says:

    Looks like it’s still going to be cheap; but the quality and features are way up Definitely a win. Impressed at the fuel economy and CVT too. Might hold out for the turbo Ralliart though if it ever gets here.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  33. Andrew M Says:

    one thing for sure it cant be any worse than the previous lancers. i mean they had interiors to make koreans look acceptable and shared the suspension of a flintstones car.

    looks definately came from the galant and this may even be an insight to the looks of the new 380. there has been a lot of talk of galant in mitsu camp of late

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  34. Galant for surre Says:

    having spent last year in the UK, the new Lancer certainly shares DNA with the old Galant – (which must have sold reasonably well as it’s common over there) – seeing them often made me wonder why Mitsubishi didn’t style the magna / 380 after those rather than the seppo Galant as they did for the 380. A much better looking car, that probably would have sold much better than the 380 has!

    I really like the look of the ‘08 Lancer… perhaps I’ll get one in a couple of years once depreciation and a few km have taken their toll on the purchase price :-)

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  35. PJ Bear Says:

    My 1999 Lancer coupe now has 200,000kms of mostly country driving on it, has demanded very few repairs and is still reasonably tight. That history of good build quality, the promise of more internal space for a tall driver, ABS and air bags (especially the side ones) and the fact that Mitsubishi at least makes *some* cars in Australia (nobody makes a small car here) makes it likely I’ll be a customer again soon.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  36. Keiretsu Says:

    Anyone here had ever known that the engine under this Lancer’s hood is Hyundai-developed? Mitsubishi has bought liscense from Hyundai to use the engine for its new models to be developped in near future, New lancer is one of those that will run on the Hyundai engine.

    Heaps of Australians keep worshipping Mitsubish but still ganging up on Hyundai. But what if Mitsu is paying Hyundai for using its engine for much-hyped(and worshipped)Lancer?

    Don’t contradict yourself. Hope my post will tell you a bit of what is actually going on in the world auto industry.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  37. Andrew M Says:

    i think hyundai has come a long way and is fast becoming a great company.
    they are giving quality and unbelievable value and it doesnt surprise me that they are now supplying engines elsewhere
    but interesting trivia thanks for that

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  38. Keiretsu Says:

    Amrican Chrysler has also bought the engine design and technology from Hyundai for its Sebring convertible and sedan (midsized). The Hyundai engine that has been sold to Mitsu and Chrylser is Theta engine available in both 2.0 and 2.4L petrol.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  39. Kenn Says:

    The Engine used in the lancer was jointly developed by Mitsubishi, Chrysler & Hyundai. Only the cylinder block and other basic structural parts of the engine were jointly developed. Other components are unique to Mitsubishi engines like MIVEC variable valve timing.

    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M.....MA_engines

    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G.....g_Alliance

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  40. Tony C Says:

    I have read a report on this new car in the latest Wheels Magazine. The size of the car is now ‘mid-size’. The new engine is all aluminium (sign of things to come as new cars lose weight for fuel efficiency).

    This new model should sell well to singles, couples with no kids and retired folks.

    A much better looking car than the ugly Mitsu 380.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  41. Bavarian Missile Says:

    Your not wrong there Tony the current 380 has a head like a savage water rat.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  42. tony Says:

    Guys – I don’t mind the looks of the 380 – although it’s a pity the styling isn’t as good as the Lancer. That’s a given. What I need to say though, is that the 380 is a first class drive in every respect. Don’t believe me! Do yourself a favour and go for a quick test drive and then report back here.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  43. Andrew M Says:

    i actually dont mind the look of the 380 that much and the VRX form looks ….well i reckon bloody good.
    not to mention that the 380 probably offers the best value by a long way. (but thats only cause they arent selling as many)

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  44. Keiretsu Says:

    Kenn, don’t too much rely on wikipedia where any member of the general public cau put up an article if approved by its web coordinator. We gotta see deep inside the auto industry politics. Gotta realise Chrysler and Mitsubishi would not be happy with admitting their engines were Hyundai-based.

    Note that 2.0, .2.4L Hyundai Theta engines debutted in Sep 2004 when the all new Sonata midsized sedan was launced first in South Korea.

    The GEMA joint venture whereby Chryler, Hyundai and Mitsubishi agreed to the design of World Engines available in 2 variants (2.0, 2.4) was formed in 2005.

    How come the Theta engine could have been ‘jointly’ developed even before the joint venture began its operation?

    ‘The cylinder block and other basic structural parts’ which I think require a good deal of technology and craftmanship were not jointly designed but exclusively designed by Hyundai. Chrysler and Mitsubishi then, based on the Hyundai-designed block design, built up their own engine using different manifolds, intake out-take systemw and valve timing equipment according to what they expected of the enigine. So the MIVEC is Mitsubishi edition of Theta Engine that has gone through fairly heavy mechanical addition and change (e.g Mitsubishi adopted their own MIVEC valve timing systems whilst Hyundai used Denso-designed Various Valve Timing configuration).

    You might say ‘then they are completely different engines’
    Well, in the 90’s, Hyundai had used Mitsubishi-based Sirius engines right until the Theta engine was built for the Sonata.

    But many mechanical changes that Hyundai brought to the Sirius engine were such that they became completely different from one another. Even so, Hyundai still had to gain permission from Mitsubishi when they wanted to modify even the diameter of a screw in the block. Why? because the very fundamental part of the engine was still Mitsubishi-designed.

    The reverse is now the case with relationship between Hyundai ,and Daimler Chrysler & Mitsubishi. Chrysler and Mitsubishi can modify the Hyundai-based engine to their own desired specifications making their engines quite distinct from each other, but still to a degree have to be dependent on Hyundai’ engineers.

    I am not trying to detract from this awesome Mitsubishi sedan. Actually I am extremely pleased with this solid sedan and think this is the best bick in its class. But I just want to let people know what is really going on.

    As far as I know this is what has actually happened between the American, Japanese and Korean auto makers. Please correct me if you find a bit that is wrong.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  45. Sam.L Says:

    The new Lancer sedans are stunning both visually & technically. The inclusion of Stability Control and Traction speaks volumes about Mitsu’s commitment to safety.The same endorsements however cannot be awarded in the power stakes. Whilst the new 2.0L engine delivers class leading performance (113kw/198Nm),I believe the power/weight ratios suffer due to the increased kerb weights and sadly the heavier flagship VRX with its handling advantage suffers the most and loses out in a power struggle to the ES & VR. The sportiest model should also go as good as it looks, “not the opposite”! Come on Mitsu, don’t screw up with the normally aspirated models. Add the 2.4L engine (125kw/226Nm)(albeit pricier premium) and give the VRX the edge. Read the Aust CARSguide (Sept 21st liftout) tests in Canberra, A CVT equipped VRX would run the slowest time (approx 1 second) @ 10.5’s to 110kph. Perhaps Mitsu believes the upcoming Ralliart & EVO models will provide all the performance value! Your right, they will, but not all potential customers prefer and/or are allowed (“P” Platers) a turbo model that costs more to purchase and insane amounts to insure. Mitsubishi Aust’s CEO Rob McEniry has hinted to various press that the 2.4l engine could follow. If this pipeline upgrade is being considered, then it should have already been available in the VRX to all of us willing buyers. C’mon Rob, time to start rattling Mitsu Japan’s gates and get this upgrade implemented, ASAP. My money is still sitting in my bank.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  46. Jim Says:

    16″ Brake Discs Front and Rear… So 400mm rotors on an ordinary road car, I don’t think so.
    The US website lists 11.6″ Discs or there abouts.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  47. frz Says:

    hi guys,
    im new here and been researching about this new 2008lancer if it is really worth getting compare to mazda3?

    dont really know much about cars but damn, Hyundai engine on a lancer? heard that hyundai is a bit shaky too? but that’s just from someone’s mouth.

    mostly appreciated if any will leave their comments.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  48. tony Says:

    Hyundai shakey! That’s funny. Those guys are selling heaps of cars worldwide and only getting stronger!

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  49. frz Says:

    Which is better in performance, mazda3 or lancer08?

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  50. Toyota Paul Says:

    “At just $20,990, the entry- level ES model will have the rest of the small car field in damage control.” -CarAdvice

    Ummmm I dont really think so… as another poster mentioned although it offers reasonable value for money it looks like absolute CRAP, the base model that is. I went to the dealership today… exteranally doesnt look as good and internally looks worse and one major downer for mine, no centre console on base!!! Id go VR or above. Although Im sure some people with an absolute lack of taste may still buy it.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  51. frz Says:

    agree with that, reminds me of a kia style car if the model is a stock.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  52. Ethan Aras Says:

    G’day bloggers…

    i drove the lancer ES cvt… my overall impression is that it has a lot of standard gear for the price point BUT the quality of fit and finish wasn’t quite up to scratch…the plastics quality was quite bad, hard and shiny crap…the paint quality rather thin…

    POSITIVES – the engine is by far the smoothest (compared to the new corolla, civic, mazda 3) and torquiest… the car is fairly quiet and has a nice ride… but the CVT transmission is the noisiest and unrefined transmission i have ever come across…yuk…sounds like loose marbles are being blended as you accelerate but extremely smooth when coasting…

    but the car does look nice though…for most that alone would be enough to buy the car… the warranty is pretty good as well…

    still not my cup of tea…

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  53. frz Says:

    ahh ok, thanx for the info i appreciate it

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  54. Ronald Says:

    I have driven the CVT Lancer VR and yes it’s nosie and reminds me of the early aout holdens – shame it does not have a normal 5 / 6 speed auto. The manual is great to drive.

    How does it compare to the Mazda 3 as this is appears to be a more premium car.

    Can anybody provide feedback please.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  55. Matt Says:

    i was going to buy the vrx for my first car, done a few test drives and everything and i loved the car, but my dad always had this impression that the lancer wont hold up in vaule at future resale or something… well ig ot a mazda 6 classic sport hatch today, but i still would love to have a lancer =[

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  56. Lethal_1 Says:

    Saw this car 1st in my Game; Need For Speed – ProStreet
    Now I have seen this in person @ the Brisbane MotorShow just lately & was surprisingly impressive.? I drive a BIG car, *cough* Commodore, & this Lancer VRX has me wanting this in exchange.! – Wow.! – ALOT of Driving Safety Features & other gadgetry not found with my current car standard like; Alloy Pedals, Climate Control, Sporty Gear Lever, SteeringWheel Paddle Gear Changes, Bluetooth Connectivity, an Awesome Sound System, KeyLess Entry, plus more.!
    - What I was disappointed in was the lack of Power.? (113kW, eewww)
    - That just took the fizz outta my dream.? – And I was also led to believe it was an AWD.!! No it’s not.? OHH.?? Bummer.!!
    - I still love the car … Just have to get over the missing power & the absence of AWD … Other than that, it’s a kick-ass car I’d seriously change over too for the safety & standard gadgets.!! Nice change Mitsubishi, Cheer’s.!!*

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  57. Frugal One Says:

    This fair website loved the Lancer and called it a class leader.

    Wheels in COTY s/hitcanned it, WTF?

    Matt your dad has a point, the Corolla is even better again, i think its more important to buy what you really like and enjoy and dont worry so much about the resale.If resale is a issue, buy late model as new 2nd hand unit.

    Cheers

    F-O

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  58. Cuneyt Says:

    Looking good… slick but front is look like Volvo rear is Alfa 159…

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  59. Nikolay Trifonov Says:

    In the moment i`m driving the same Mitsubishi Lancer and i can tell you many things for this car,but only one thing makes difference from other cars,the Bulgarian roads are verry poor and in bad shape but this car makes you feel like you are drving on the fast track,she don`t have limints,it`s one of the best cars in the moment!If someone can buy this car,don`t think,buy it!!!

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  
  60. Patrick Says:

    Just want to warn people thinking of buying a Lancer that the paint has flaked severly on ours apparently due to bird droppings being left on over night (one night only!)…we’ve had it 6 months and we’re definately looking to get rid of it soon.

     Vote: Add rating 0  Subtract rating 0  

Leave a Reply

*
To prove you're a person (not a spam script), type the security word shown in the picture. Click on the picture to hear an audio file of the word.
Click to hear an audio file of the anti-spam word