Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer ES 4-door sedan. The overall feeling is that for the money it is a well rounded sedan.
Models available included a DE at $14K, ES at $16k and the GTS at under $18K all with 2 liter 152 hp engines. It is an advanced technology engine that includes variable valve timing found on more expensive engines and it and the transmission is warranted for 10 years or 100,000 miles.
General Info:
Parts – Japan 100%
Assembly – Mizushima, Japan
Class: – SubCompact
Cars: – Eclipse, Endeavor, Galant, Lancer, Outlander and Raider.
What’s this thing about car owners putting black out on their cars windows? Is it legal? I don’t like being behind a tall truck or SUV when I’m not in a large vehicle. Likewise I don’t like being behind a coupe or sedan with blacked out rear windows for the same reason… it limits my view through the car to traffic in front of it. I really don’t care who is in the car but I am put at greater risk of rear end collision when I can’t see traffic ahead. So I have to change lanes or go around that vehicle.
Handling & Performance:
Better than average handling and feel on the Crest test mountain course. The engine is responsive with 0-60 mph at 8.66 seconds. More importantly it negotiated the curves like a pro and I felt in control and safe. Drivers will appreciate the manual transmission but if you prefer an automatic is available as an option on all models.
Styling:
Aggressive.
Fit and Finish:
Very good.
Cost:
Very good for a 4-door roomy sedan and a decent array of standard features.
Conveniences and comfort:
The armrest is a bit low and more flimsy than I’d expect even at this price car. If you don’t like high trunk openings this will be a negative for you.
Consumer Recommendation:
A decent family sedan that is roomy and is a 5 passenger vehicle. The trunk is fairly large and styling is nice for any destination. And you won’t break the bank. It is among a good crowd of competitors so the good news is there are many choices; the bad news is you need to look at a lot of them because there are several good ones. Don’t leave the made in America Saturn and Chevrolet. Both real solid contenders.
Recognized Competition:
Mitsubishi Lancer $14-18,000, Saturn Ion $12-20,000, Suzuki Aerio $14-17,000, Subaru Impreza $18-33,000, Nissan Sentra $15-20,000, Volkswagen Jetta $17-23,000, Scion tC $17,000, Mazda 3 $14-20,000, Chevrolet Cobalt $14-19,000, Toyota Corolla $14-16,000, Honda Civic $15-25,000, Hyundai Elantra $14-16,000.
Good News:
Nice styling, nice ride, roomy, good size trunk and only 87 octane fuel required.
Bad News:
High trunk opening, general resale is not as good as more popular Japanese names like Toyota and Nissan.
Standard Equipment:
2.0 liter Inline 4-cylinder 152 hp engine, 5-speed manual transmission, front and side air bags and side curtain airbags and driver knee airbag, front crumple zones, child safety locks, and latch system for child seats, tire pressure monitoring system, daytime running lights, engine immobilizer with anti-theft alarm system, power steering, 4-wheel power ABS disc brakes with EBD – electronic brake distribution, front and rear stabilizer bars, air conditioning, steering wheel mounted cruise control and audio switches, height adjustable steering column, 6-way driver adjustable seat, 60/40split fold down rear seatback with center armrest, power windows, locks and mirrors, variable wipers, remote keyless entry, auto halogen headlights and 16” alloy wheels.
Options: Sun and sound package includes 650 watt Rockford-Fosgate punch sound system with 9 speakers, SIRIUS satellite radio with 6-months included and power glass sunroof ($1,500).
$2.85/ Gal avg. Sept 25, ‘07
for more information.
21 City and 29 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $15,990.
