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MITSUBISHI LANCER Used Car Review

The Mitsubishi Lancer turned 45 years old in 2018 and remains one of the Japanese brand's most famous models. That was helped in the 1990s, when the Mitsubishi Lancer enjoyed huge success in the world rallying championship (with Finnish driver Tommi Makkinen). The showroom version of the Lancer Evolution became hugely popular with keen drivers. The future of Mitsubishi's small car is now in doubt, however, as the company focuses on SUVs. The current (CJ) generation is already more than 10 years old, having debuted in 2007 - with a hatchback body style replacing the wagon.

Pros

Cons

  • Spacious cabin, and especially practical in hatch form
  • Long warranty (and transferrable)
  • Solid 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and good CVT auto
  • Reputation for reliability
  • Cheap, dull-looking interior
  • Road noise can be loud on typical coarse surfaces
  • Curtain airbags not fitted to pre-2010 models
  • 10-year powertrain warranty not transferable
This is general information and should not be relied on as purchasing advice.
MitsubishiLancerFixed PriceBlueDealer usedClear all

Top2012 Mitsubishi Lancer CJ MY12 ES Blue 6 Speed Constant Variable Sedan

  • 135252 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Family Owned Business Est 1985 Free 3 Year Warranty Full Car History Report Available and Clear of All Titles NSW Registered All Cars Mechanically Workshop Tested Log Books with Service History Automatic

$12,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Lidcombe, NSW

Dealer used
29/04/2024

Top2003 Mitsubishi Lancer CE2 MY02.5 GLi Blue 5 Speed Manual Coupe

  • 190327 km
  • Coupe (2 door)
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 1.8L

Looking for a reliable and sporty ride? Look no further than this 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer GLi Coupe in stunning blue! With a powerful 1.8i engine and manual transmission, this beauty is perfect for those who love to drive.FULL SERVICE HISTORY WITH 2 KEYS Featuring all the essentials like power steering, air conditioning, and a CD player, this Lancer is ready to hit the road. Plus, with remote fuel lid release, central locking, and an engine immobiliser, you can drive with peace of mind. Wheth

$4,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
29/04/2024

Top2010 Mitsubishi Lancer CJ MY11 Ralliart TC-SST Blue 6 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Sedan

  • 170127 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

*FRESH AUTOS OPEN 9AM -6 PM AND 24 HOURS 7 DAYS ONLINE * DELIVERY TO YOUR DOOR (WITHIN SYDNEY METRO AREA) *DOOR TO DOOR VEHICLE DELIVERY SERVICE TO AUSTRALIA WIDE *EASY FINANCE PACKAGES APPROVAL AVAILABLE ONLINE * We do TRADE IN with FAIR PRICE. * Our dealerships is located in heart of Western Sydney, just a 2 min drive off from M4 and M7 motorways . * Yard 6 & 7 , 591 CARLISLE AVENUE ,MINCHINBURY, NSW 2770. * Please contact us on /******8081

$16,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
10 hours ago

Top2011 Mitsubishi Lancer CJ MY11 SX Blue 6 Speed Constant Variable Sedan

  • 129116 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

** Magic Auto Wholesale ** Why buying from us ? Several years in the industry, we prioritise our customers above all else. Magic Auto isn't just good, it's 5 - Star AMAZING! Google & Facebook with 500+ reviews, customers rave about our cars, service, and prices. Don't miss out! *** Step into the driver's seat of this vibrant blue 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer CJ SX Sedan! Powered by a robust 2.0i 4-cylinder engine and equipped with a smooth Constantly Variable Transmission, this sporty sedan promise

$11,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
Yesterday

Top2008 Mitsubishi Lancer CJ MY09 ES Blue 6 Speed Constant Variable Sedan

  • 198555 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2008 MITSUBISHI LANCER CJ ES SEDAN 4DR AUTO 6SP 2.0i [MY09] $7,990 - Fast easy finance available. https://formulacarsandcommercials.com/finance - Extended warranty plans available. - 1 Year warranty included at the advertised price. - Only 195,555 Km - Just serviced & safety checked. - Drives spot on. - 6 speed auto. - Cheap to run and maintain. - Sporty & economical four cylinder engine. - clean and tidy vehicle - Ice cold aircon. - Perfect first car or cheap relaible run about,

$7,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
29/04/2024

Top2011 Mitsubishi Lancer CJ MY11 Ralliart TC-SST Blue 6 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Sedan

  • 162477 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

All of our pre-owned vehicles undergo a 100 Point inspection by our qualified technicians. ***Enquire about our Toyota Certified vehicles today*** Trade in your current vehicle. With high volume and low over heads we can PAY MORE. We will trade your vehicle in regardless of age, condition or kms. Even if you are not purchasing from us, we are happy to buy your vehicle. We stock over 300 quality pre-owned vehicles so please contact us or simply call in to speak to one of our professional ve

$17,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Canning Vale, WA

Dealer used
29/04/2024

2015 Mitsubishi Lancer CF MY16 GSR Blue 6 Speed Constant Variable Sedan

  • 84749 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.4L

Looking for a sleek and stylish sedan that doesn't skimp on performance? Look no further than this 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer GSR in a stunning BLUE color. With a 2.4i engine, this sedan is ready to hit the road with 18" Alloy Wheels and a 6 Speaker Stereo system for the ultimate driving experience. Equipped with a range of features including climate control air conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity, rear vision camera, and keyless start, this Lancer GSR has everything you need for a comfortable an

$17,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
17 minutes ago

2015 Mitsubishi Lancer -$14,990 Excl charges Gov from $62 Per Week

  • 113681 km
  • Other
  • Auto

TO APPLY For FINANCE CLICK HERE www.financeapprovedautos.com.au/finance LOCATED 13 Kingston Road Woodridge 4114 (Next to Seven Eleven) COME AND SAY HELLO OR GIVE US A CALL NICOLE FINANCE & SALES FINANCE FROM $40PW EASY TERMS ON A LARGE RANGE OF OUR VEHICLES Low rate, no deposit finance available T.A.P Good Credit/Bad Credit Centrelink ok Full time/casual employment ABN/Self employed Low doc loans Trade in welcome Same day approvals T.A.P Paid/Unpaid defaults New

$14,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Underwood, QLD

Dealer used
3 hours ago

2015 Mitsubishi Lancer CJ MY15 ES Sport Blue 6 Speed CVT Auto Sequential Sedan

  • 161750 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Looking for a reliable and stylish sedan that won't break the bank? Look no further than this 2015 MITSUBISHI LANCER ES SPORT CJ MY15 in a sleek BLUE color. Priced at $13,850.00 , with just 161000 kms on the clock, this vehicle is packed with features to enhance your driving experience. With a fuel-efficient 2.0L engine and a smooth CVT automatic transmission, this LANCER is perfect for your daily commute or weekend adventures. Equipped with amenities like cruise control, power windows, and a

$13,850 Excl. Gov. Charges
Harrington, NSW

Dealer used
3 hours ago

2010 Mitsubishi Lancer CJ MY11 Ralliart TC-SST Blue 6 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Sedan

  • 170127 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

*FRESH AUTOS OPEN 9AM -6 PM AND 24 HOURS 7 DAYS ONLINE * DELIVERY TO YOUR DOOR (WITHIN SYDNEY METRO AREA) *DOOR TO DOOR VEHICLE DELIVERY SERVICE TO AUSTRALIA WIDE *EASY FINANCE PACKAGES APPROVAL AVAILABLE ONLINE * We do TRADE IN with FAIR PRICE. * Our dealerships is located in heart of Western Sydney, just a 2 min drive off from M4 and M7 motorways . * Yard 6 & 7 , 591 CARLISLE AVENUE ,MINCHINBURY, NSW 2770. * Please contact us on /******8081

$16,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
10 hours ago

2011 MITSUBISHI LANCER SX CJ MY11 4D SEDAN MANUAL 36 MONTHS FREE WARRANTY

  • 116225 km
  • Sedan
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

This Lancer is great fuel efficient sedan, with a zippy and fuel efficient 2.0L Engine, It drive great and has a bunch of fantastic extras such as a trip computer and cruise control, just been detailed and ready to drive away Free 36 Months warranty (Cover parts & Labour Australia Wide) Done only 116,000 KMS Excellent condition 5 Speed Manual Transmission 2.0 L 4 Cylinder Cruise Control Up to date service ---------------------------------- - Good Tyres! - Icy Cold AC! - 100% Solid Bod

$11,490 Excl. Gov. Charges
Kenwick, WA

Dealer used
17 hours ago

2010 Mitsubishi Lancer CJ MY10 Evolution Blue 6 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Sedan

  • 127689 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

** From Only $194 Per Week ** Any Inspections Are Welcome – Interstate Buyers Also Welcome – Third Party Independent Inspections Are Welcome – Finance Available – 3 Year Warranty Available – Trade Ins Are Welcome WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ME? • WOW EVO 10 TURBO • AUTOMATIC • ONE OWNER FROM NEW • STOCK STANDARD CANVAS • RECARO SEATS • ALLOY WHEELS • PRICED TO SELL • STUNNING IN BLUE • SERVICE HISTORY • WORKSHOP TESTED AND APPROVED • CLEAR PPSR ON VIN CHECK 2010 (Used) - LANCER EVOLUT

$36,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Welshpool, WA

Dealer used
17 hours ago

2013 Mitsubishi Lancer CJ MY13 ES Blue 6 Speed Constant Variable Sedan

  • 281165 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Automatic transmission with a 2.0lt engine. Body kit with Alloy wheels, Air conditioning. Very good service history. Clear coat coming off. Drives very well. We are located just a one hour drive south of Rockhampton or a one hour flight flight from Brisbane. This vehicle is been sold from our wholesale car yard as traded with no RWC or Rego. THIS VEHICLE HAS NOT HAD A RWC INSPECTION, however pre-purchase inspections can be organised by customer prior to purchase. Threre are a number of mobile

$5,000 Excl. Gov. Charges
Gladstone, QLD

Dealer used
19 hours ago

2009 Mitsubishi Lancer CJ MY09 VR-X Sportback Blue 6 Speed Automatic Hatchback

  • 218350 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.4L

Introducing the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer VR-X - A Perfect Blend of Performance and Efficiency Are you in the market for a reliable and stylish sedan that delivers an exhilarating driving experience? Look no further than the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer VR-X. This sporty sedan is designed to impress, offering a winning combination of performance, fuel efficiency, and advanced safety features. - The 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer VR-X is powered by a responsive and efficient 2.4-liter MIVEC engine that del

$9,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Slacks Creek, QLD

Dealer used
19 hours ago

2009 Mitsubishi Lancer ES ! Serviced & Inspected ! Auto !

  • 187768 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

This Mitsubishi Lancer represents the perfect everyday sedan. It is ideal for many uses ensuring your satisfaction for whether it is a car for daily commuting, the family or even business use. With its sharp looks and great features it will not disappoint. Be sure that this Lancer is of the highest quality as it looks and drives like brand new and has been very well taken care of. We have also completed a full service and inspection at our onsite workshop ensuring that this Mitsubishi has a lo

$8,949 Excl. Gov. Charges
Lansvale, NSW

Dealer used
20 hours ago

2009 Mitsubishi Lancer CJ MY09 ES Blue 6 Speed Constant Variable Sedan

  • 210000 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2009 Mitsubishi Lancer CJ MY09 ES Blue 6 Speed Constant Variable Sedan

$11,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
21 hours ago

2016 Mitsubishi Lancer CF ES Sport Blue 6 Speed CVT Auto Sequential Sedan

  • 176814 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

This vehicle is in great condition for its age and is sure to impress. At this advertised price it is astonishingly affordable. Be sure to act quick to take advantage of this amazing offer before someone else does. Comes with a Free - 1 year dealer warranty, a current RWC is supplied and all on road costs are included driveaway, no more to pay! Why buy your car from us Because it’s the intelligent choice! Established in 1988, our Dealership has been offering unique customer experience not

$17,499 Excl. Gov. Charges
Braybrook, VIC

Dealer used
21 hours ago

2009 Mitsubishi Lancer CJ MY10 VR-X Blue 6 Speed Constant Variable Sedan

  • 305252 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.4L

`Quality vehicles at affordable prices`` We offer great service in finance with our partner Ezilend, past credit problems are ok, click here for no obligation pre approval. https://ezilend.com.au/p/ACSG We are a small family owned and operated business located in Western Sydney just off the M4 between Parramatta and Penrith. With over 15 years experience in selling and financing vehicles, we do everything required to provide a quality vehicle every time. All of our cars come with Roadworthy

$6,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
22 hours ago

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer VR-X SPORTBACK

  • 190697 km
  • Hatchback
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 2.4L

FULL SERVICE HISTORY, POWERFUL 2.4 LITRE ENGINE, 5 SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION, BLUETOOTH, CRUISE CONTROL, ALLOY WHEELS AND MUCH MORE... This vehicle is located at Sky Motors, 347 Main North Road, Enfield, SA 5085. We are one of the biggest and best, quality second hand vehicle used car dealerships in Adelaide and South Australia. Our friendly team ensures we always have the lowest prices and best used car deals in Adelaide and South Australia. 1-5 Year EXTENDED WARRANTY and 24 hour Road side

$8,490 Excl. Gov. Charges
Enfield, SA

Dealer used
24 hours ago

2013 Mitsubishi Lancer CJ MY14 ES Blue 6 Speed CVT Auto Sequential Sedan

  • 92918 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Wonderful value mid size Lancer ES Sedan automatic with Fabric Interior, 5 seats, spare wheel and a powerful yet efficient four cylinder engine. Blue in colour, this vehicle comes fully serviced and inspected and with super low kms for its age. Furthermore, if you are looking at financing this vehicle, we have multiple lenders keen to earn your business! Plenty of space for five plus luggage, this vehicle includes brand new Continental tyres worth $1000, long NSW registration until October

$14,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Mosman, NSW

Dealer used
Yesterday

2003 Mitsubishi Lancer CT Evolution VIII Blue Manual Sedan

  • 78999 km
  • Other
  • Manual
  • 4

Fresh Stock, Available for immediate delivery, all vehicles do come with a current roadworthy certificate. *** Extended warranty plans and roadside assistance available for 1, 3, and 5 years. *** Quick & Easy Finance & Insurance Available. *** Trade-ins welcome. We offer the best trade-in price for your car. *** We offer free delivery around Sydney *** We do interstate deliveries as well at a very reasonable cost. *** Every vehicle has a PPSR check which certifies clear title, no finance due,

$37,888 Excl. Gov. Charges
Taren Point, NSW

Dealer used
Yesterday

2011 Mitsubishi Lancer CJ MY11 SX Blue 6 Speed Constant Variable Sedan

  • 129116 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

** Magic Auto Wholesale ** Why buying from us ? Several years in the industry, we prioritise our customers above all else. Magic Auto isn't just good, it's 5 - Star AMAZING! Google & Facebook with 500+ reviews, customers rave about our cars, service, and prices. Don't miss out! *** Step into the driver's seat of this vibrant blue 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer CJ SX Sedan! Powered by a robust 2.0i 4-cylinder engine and equipped with a smooth Constantly Variable Transmission, this sporty sedan promise

$11,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
Yesterday

2008 Mitsubishi Evolution X CJ Manual 4WD MY09

  • 135000 km
  • Sedan
  • Manual
  • 4 2000

2008 Mitsubishi Evolution X CJ Manual 4WD MY09 -Australian Delivered -135000kms with books -4B11T 2.0L (1998cc) turbocharged -5 Speed Manual -Rays 57DR wheels -New tyres recently fitted -Recaro seats -MOMO Steering wheel -BREMBO Brake Please don’t hesitate to contact me for more details about the car – Adelaide Based Imports & Used Car Dealer – Willing to assist interstate buyer to transport – Can purchase your car if you thinking of selling – Finance and Trade In Both Available – Inspec

$36,500 Excl. Gov. Charges
Melrose Park, SA

Dealer used
29/04/2024

2012 Mitsubishi Lancer CJ MY12 Platinum Blue 6 Speed Constant Variable Sedan

  • 199027 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2012 MITSUBISHI LANCER PLATINUM EDITION SEDAN SOLD WITH REGO AND RWC LONG REGO TILL JAN 2025 SAVE $$$ FULL SERVICE HISTORY UP TO DATE CLEAR TITLE VALUE FOR MONEY VERY WELL LOOKED AFTER 4 BRAND NEW KUMHO TYRES MUST SEE CAR IN IMMACULATE CONDITION FOR THE AGE AUTOMATIC FULL BODY KIT 18INCH ALLOY LEATHER INTERIOR AMAZING TINTED WINDOWS BT PHONE CONNECT POWER WINDOWS CRUISE CONTROL KEYLESS ENTRY STEERING WHEEL CONTROLS MECHANICALLY FAULTLESS GENUINE CLEAN & TIDY INSIDE OUT AIR/CON P/STEERING CEN

$12,499 Excl. Gov. Charges
Deer Park, VIC

Dealer used
29/04/2024

2009 MITSUBISHI LANCER ES, AUTO,VERY TIDY, GOOD KLM’s

  • 161857 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Looking for a stylish and reliable sedan that won't break the bank? Look no further than this 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer CJ ES Sedan in a stunning blue color. With sleek body color bumpers and door handles, this sedan is sure to turn heads wherever you go. Plus, the metallic finish details on the dashboard, steering wheel, gear knob, and gear shift gate add a touch of sophistication to the interior. But it's not just about looks. This Lancer comes packed with features to make your driving experie

$11,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Belmont, NSW

Dealer used
29/04/2024

2003 Mitsubishi Lancer CE2 MY02.5 GLi Blue 5 Speed Manual Coupe

  • 190327 km
  • Coupe (2 door)
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 1.8L

Looking for a reliable and sporty ride? Look no further than this 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer GLi Coupe in stunning blue! With a powerful 1.8i engine and manual transmission, this beauty is perfect for those who love to drive.FULL SERVICE HISTORY WITH 2 KEYS Featuring all the essentials like power steering, air conditioning, and a CD player, this Lancer is ready to hit the road. Plus, with remote fuel lid release, central locking, and an engine immobiliser, you can drive with peace of mind. Wheth

$4,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
29/04/2024

2012 Mitsubishi Lancer CJ MY12 ES Blue 6 Speed Constant Variable Sedan

  • 135252 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Family Owned Business Est 1985 Free 3 Year Warranty Full Car History Report Available and Clear of All Titles NSW Registered All Cars Mechanically Workshop Tested Log Books with Service History Automatic

$12,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Lidcombe, NSW

Dealer used
29/04/2024

2011 Mitsubishi Lancer CJ MY11 Ralliart TC-SST Blue 6 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Sedan

  • 162477 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

All of our pre-owned vehicles undergo a 100 Point inspection by our qualified technicians. ***Enquire about our Toyota Certified vehicles today*** Trade in your current vehicle. With high volume and low over heads we can PAY MORE. We will trade your vehicle in regardless of age, condition or kms. Even if you are not purchasing from us, we are happy to buy your vehicle. We stock over 300 quality pre-owned vehicles so please contact us or simply call in to speak to one of our professional ve

$17,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Canning Vale, WA

Dealer used
29/04/2024

2006 Mitsubishi Lancer CH MY06 ES Blue 5 Speed Manual Sedan

  • 125429 km
  • Sedan
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 2.4L

2006 Mitsubishi Lancer ES 2.4L 5 Sp Manual * Full service history * Very low kilometres * Cruise control * 15 inch alloy wheels * Spoiler * ABS brakes * Central locking * Cloth trim * Power mirrors * Power windows Budget auto - Shop with confidence - Family owned for 30 years - We deliver Australia wide - Finance options available - Warranty available www.brightonprestige.com.au

$6,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Cheltenham, VIC

Dealer used
29/04/2024

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer CJ MY09 ES Blue 6 Speed Constant Variable Sedan

  • 198555 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2008 MITSUBISHI LANCER CJ ES SEDAN 4DR AUTO 6SP 2.0i [MY09] $7,990 - Fast easy finance available. https://formulacarsandcommercials.com/finance - Extended warranty plans available. - 1 Year warranty included at the advertised price. - Only 195,555 Km - Just serviced & safety checked. - Drives spot on. - 6 speed auto. - Cheap to run and maintain. - Sporty & economical four cylinder engine. - clean and tidy vehicle - Ice cold aircon. - Perfect first car or cheap relaible run about,

$7,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
29/04/2024

Overview of the Mitsubishi Lancer

Overview of the Mitsubishi Lancer

The Mitsubishi Lancer turned 45 years old in 2018 and remains one of the Japanese brand's most famous models.

That was helped in the 1990s, when the Mitsubishi Lancer enjoyed huge success in the world rallying championship (with Finnish driver Tommi Makkinen). The showroom version of the Lancer Evolution became hugely popular with keen drivers.

The future of Mitsubishi's small car is now in doubt, however, as the company focuses on SUVs. The current (CJ) generation is already more than 10 years old, having debuted in 2007 - with a hatchback body style replacing the wagon.

MITSUBISHI LANCER GENERATIONS (SINCE 2000)

2000-2007

2007-present

RUNNING COSTS

Fuel Consumption

2.0L 4cyl petrol: 7.1-7.4 litres per 100km

2.4L 4cyl petrol: 8.7-8.9 litres per 100km

= Highly economical.

= Good economy.

= Average fuel use.

= Heavy consumption.

Servicing

SIMILAR CARS TO MITSUBISHI LANCER

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR: MITSUBISHI LANCER (2015 MODELS ONWARDS)

Based on the previous-model Lancer, the Lancer here represents a decade-old design, so Mitsubishi has had plenty of time to get it right.

The CVT transmission takes some getting used to. Even then, a batch of Lancers had especially tardy CVTs and was recalled to sharpen them up.

On manual cars, make sure there's no shuddering when you take off and that all the gears engage smoothly, especially first thing in the morning.

At idle and with the car in neutral, let the clutch out. There shouldn't be a sudden clattering noise when you do this. If there is, the gearbox could be worn.

Drive any manual Lancer up a hill in fourth or fifth gear and try to accelerate. If the engine speeds up but the car doesn't, you're looking at a worn clutch that will need replacement.

Check the service record carefully. Lancers were popular with younger owners, many of whom regarded preventative maintenance as optional.