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Mitsubishi Lancer 2009 Problems

Are you having problems with your 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer? Let our team of motoring experts keep you up to date with all of the latest 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer issues & faults. We have gathered all of the most frequently asked questions and problems relating to the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer in one spot to help you decide if it's a smart buy.

What causes paint peel?

It sounds like the clear coat is peeling away, and that’s not unusual for cars around time. It’s a problem with the paint and the only fix is to repaint it.

Used Mitsubishi Lancer review: 2007-2018

The CJ Lancer arrived in 2007 with plenty of promise.

Compared to the previous model the CJ had fresh looks, a longer wheelbase and wider track for more cabin space, and there was more equipment.

In an increasingly crowded, and hotly contested small car market, it tended to blend into the background rather than stand out, but anyone who cared to take a closer look would have discovered a solid, well built, and reliable car.

The CJ range offered a choice of four-door sedan and five-door hatch body styles, and a range of models to suit most needs and desires.

Most were front-wheel drive, but there were also sizzling hot four-wheel drive models to satisfy wanna-be rally drivers.

At launch, everyday motorists had the option of the entry-level ES, the VR mid-ranger, and the sporty VR-X, with the Aspire, Activ, RX, and SX, added to the range in the following months and years.

Weekend warriors could satisfy their need for speed with the rally-bred Ralliart and Evolution models.

Standard features in the ES included air-conditioning, four-speaker sound with CD player and MP3 compatibility, cruise control, driver’s footrest, intermittent wipers, multi-function control screen, power windows and mirrors, cloth trim, trip computer, and tachometer.

It had steel wheels and full wheel covers, and the spare tyre was a space saver.

Metallic and pearl paint could be ordered as options.

Had you chosen the VR you would have got all of that plus alloy wheels, six-speaker sound with CD stacker, air-conditioning with climate control, fog lamps, leather-trimmed, multi-function steering wheel and hand brake lever, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlamps, and a sporty rear spoiler and side skirts.

The list of standard features was even longer with the VR-X, and included 18-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth to allow you to connect your iPhone or Android device, sports seats, sports pedals, keyless start, a body kit with high rear spoiler, and a front strut brace to aid handling. High end Rockford audio and a sunroof were available as options.

The four-wheel drive, turbocharged Evolution, or Evo, was Mitsubishi’s nod to its rally participation. It had everything you could imagine in a rally special, with sports suspension, a wild body kit, sports instruments, sports seats and a sporty steering wheel.

For more there was the optional 'Performance Pack', which saw the suspension and brakes upgraded.

An update in 2008 saw the introduction of the Aspire with a 2.4-litre engine.

Standard features of the Aspire included 18-inch alloy wheels, leather trim with woodgrain highlights, a premium sound system with nine speakers, a 7.0-inch touchscreen, and fog lamps.

At the same time the VR-X was upgraded with the 2.4-litre engine, and the Ralliart joined the Evolution on the performance front.

The RX arrived in 2009 and it was positioned above the ES, and could be distinguished by alloy wheels, and the Activ came a year later.

A reversing camera was added to the range, except for the ES, in 2012, but there were no parking sensors or a parking assist system.

Sat nav was not available on the ES, but was available on other models in the range from 2013.

The Lancer’s cabin was quite roomy for its size, with comfortable accommodation for five.

Front seats were buckets, sports seats in the sporty models, and the rear was a split-fold seat for extra carrying capacity when needed.

With the rear seat in the normal position the boot volume was 315 litres. With it folded the volume increased to 400 litres.

There was plenty of storage spread around the cabin, with an in-dash glove box, a compartment in the console, pockets in the front doors and front seat backs, bottle holders, and cupholders in the front and rear.

Most models had cloth trim, but up-range ones had leather, and some had woodgrain, as well.

The main power source across the range was a double overhead camshaft 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with variable valve timing that put out 113kW (151 horsepower), and 198Nm at is power and torque peaks, which was enough to give it solid performance in the class.

A larger 2.4-litre petrol four was added to the range in 2008, and with 125kW (167 horsepower), and 226Nm of torque, it provided more performance for those wanting a bit more zip.

There was a five-speed manual gearbox available, but the transmission most buyers chose was the CVT, which was the automatic option.

The quirky CVT was not everyone’s cup of tea, but with the option of a six-speed sports mode the Mitsubishi transmission didn’t feel as soggy as some others.

With their connection to rallying the Evolution and Ralliart models had blistering performance delivered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

It was linked to a six-speed dual-clutch transmission, in turn to a four-wheel drive system.

The CJ Lancer was a capable and user-friendly small car. It did everything well and didn’t present anyone with any untoward challenges on the road.

With independent front and rear suspension, even in base form, it was sure-footed, steered well, handled corners with assurance, and the ride was well damped.

The steering was light, and the turning circle tight, making it easy to manoeuvre and park around town.

Step up the model range and the picture was even better, with sportier handling from the lower and former suspension.

Both engines were willing, the larger 2.4-litre unit had more torque to deliver smoother driveability, and for that reason, is a better choice than the 2.0-litre engine.

Those inside were treated to comfortable seating with little external disturbance from road noise or other potentially annoying elements to bother them.

The thrill-a-minute performance-tuned Ralliart and Evo models were different animals entirely; they were at their best competing on the track or in the forests.

The CJ Lancer was well equipped with safety features.

All models except the entry-level ES, which was rated at four stars, carried a five-star ANCAP rating from the introduction of the model.

The difference in rating can be attributed to the ES not having head airbags for the front or side airbags for the front and rear seat passengers.

Anyone wanting to upgrade the safety of the ES to five stars could have added an option pack of side and head airbags.

That changed in 2010 when the ES got the additional head and side airbags and was upgraded to the same five stars as the other models.

All models then had front airbags for the driver and front seat passenger, a knee airbag for the driver, head airbags for the front seat passengers, and side (curtain) airbags for those in the front and rear seats.

All five seats had lap-sash seat belts, allowing the fitment of a baby car seat.

The Lancer was one of the cars that had ISOFIX baby car seat mounting points before they were made mandatory in 2014.

In addition to the passive safety features all models had ABS braking, EBD electronic brakeforce distribution, traction control, and ESP electronic stability control.

Except for the CVT and dual-clutch automatic transmissions the Lancer follows a well-proven formula.

There’s nothing radical about it, nothing that should be cause for concern by anyone considering buying one second hand.

Most owners were keen to praise the reliability of their cars, saying they were well built and were for the most part reliable.

One issue that cropped up related to the operation of the ABS brakes as a result of the failure of the electronic module that controls the system.

Owners said their first warning of the problem was when the warning light on the dash began flickering. It eventually stayed on; the ABS braking system was then not functioning.

Check with the seller to see if there have been any problems with the braking system previously, and take note of the ABS warning light if it comes on.

Another thing to focus on when test-driving a car is the operation of the automatic transmissions.

No owner we spoke to raised any issues with either the CVT or the dual-clutch transmission, which suggests there are no problems with them, but the history of the transmissions in general says they are prone to problems. 

Observe the CVT for shuddering on take-off or when accelerating, hesitations, or any other thing that doesn’t feel right.

In the case of the dual-clutch auto, observe for any hesitation on shifting, or incorrectly selecting neutral.

Check for a service record to make sure your potential purchase has been well maintained.

The recommended engine oil for the CJ Lancer is 5W-30, servicing should be every 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first, and the engines have timing chains.

Mitsubishi provided a generous new car warranty of five years/130,000km, and there was also five years roadside assistance.

Capped price servicing was introduced in 2012 to keep a lid on service costs.

There have been some recalls, mostly for electrical issues, so check the service book to see what if any recall reworks have been done.

Buying a Ralliart or Evolution model requires extra caution when inspecting prior to purchase. As many will have been driven hard by enthusiast owners, or even used in motorsport competition, it’s important to check for signs of modification or abuse.

MORE: If anything crops up, you’ll probably find it on our Mitsubishi Lancer problems page.

K. Brigham: I bought my 2010 Activ new. It’s solidly built, very roomy, comfortable, gets good mileage, and there have been no problems with it at all.

Anna Breinl: My 2007 VR-X is a great touring car, it’s comfortable, and it has been absolutely trouble-free.

Patrick Firth: The 2013 ES feels sporty. I like the performance of the 2.0-litre engine, the manual gearbox is good, and I get good economy.

Michael Beeston: I’ve owned my 2011 ES from new. It’s now done almost 100,000 km and there has been no problem with it at all. I like driving it, the handling is quite good, it’s safe, and the fuel economy is good.

Apart from the Evo the Lancer wasn’t very exciting, but it was a solid and reliable all-rounder.

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Best first car options?

Do not buy a Cruze, or buy a European brand. They will prove costly. It's best to go for the cars that are well proven over many years. The Lancer is a good one, but so too is the Toyota Yaris or Corolla, Suzuki Swift, Mazda2 or 3, or Mitsubishi Colt.

Used Mitsubishi Lancer review: 2007-2014

Graham Smith reviews the 2007 - 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer as a used buy.

Meet Mr Reliable. Mostly, anyway... The refreshed all-rounder followed a well-proven formula.

The Lancer has been with us forever; at least it feels that way. But unlike other long-lived models such as the Toyota Corolla, it has never really commanded the attention of buyers.

Those who have taken the trouble to find out mostly regard it as solid, well-built and reliable but it has tended to blend into the background rather than stand out from the crowd.

The CJ model arrived in 2007 with plenty of promise. Compared to the previous model it had fresh looks, a longer wheelbase and a wider track, more cabin space, and there was more equipment.

There were sedan and hatch body styles and range of models to suit most needs and desires.

With its clean and attractive looks, the CJ Lancer was engaging, even if the cabin was criticised for its blandness.

The everyday models (we'll overlook the hero sports models that appealed more to wannabe rally drivers) were the entry level ES, the VR mid-ranger and the sporty VR-X. The Aspire, Activ and SX came later.

With its clean and attractive looks, the CJ Lancer was engaging, even if the cabin was criticised for its blandness.

The 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine (113kW/198Nm) made it a solid performer in the class. For those wanting a little more zip, Mitsubishi added a 2.4-litre four (125kW/226Nm) in 2008.

The gearbox most buyers chose was the constantly variable transmission but there was a five-speed manual option.

The quirky CVT was not everyone's cup of tea but with its six-speed sports mode the Mitsubishi trannie didn't feel as soggy as some others.

Thanks to the larger footprint delivered by its longer wheelbase and wide track, the Lancer felt more stable and better balanced on the road than its predecessor. Inside, it was quieter and more comfortable.

Apart from the CVT, the Lancer follows a well-proven formula. There's nothing terribly radical about it or cause for concern by potential used buyers.

Most owners we spoke to were eager to praise their cars, regarding them as well built and for the most part reliable.

One issue that should be of concern relates to the anti-lock brakes and results from the failure of the electronic module that controls the braking system.

Owners say their first indication was when the warning light on the dash began flickering. It eventually stayed on; the ABS was then not functioning.

There have been some recalls, mostly for electrical issues, so check the service book to see what work has been done.

Check with the seller about earlier issues with the brakes — and take note of the ABS warning light if it comes on while driving the car.

Another thing to focus on when testing a car is the operation of the CVT. Owners raised no issues with the gearbox, which suggests there are no problems with it but the history of such transmissions suggests that they are prone to driveability problems.

Check for shuddering on takeoff or when accelerating, hesitations or any other indication that something is awry.

Check for a service record to make sure that your potential purchase has been well maintained.

There have been some recalls, mostly for electrical issues, so check the service book to see what work has been done.

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Used small cars review: 2007-2010

You can save a motza on a late-model used car, because the first owner has already taken the biggest hit... usually 30-50 percent, in depreciation. Ideally, you want to be the second owner, and hang on to the car for a few years, to maximise the value you get from your motoring dollar.

We’ve picked our top five used small cars under $15,000 based on reliability, quality, safety, space and low running costs.

You won’t find any Euros on our list. The VW Golf, Peugeot 307 and Holden Astra are sweet to drive, but they can also fall to bits. They’re hideously expensive to fix and to service. Trust us. There is no such thing as a cheap, reliable, European used car.

A well-maintained 2007-2008 Corolla Ascent or Conquest is used car gold, because chances are it will still drive like new and you’ll enjoy many years of trouble-free ownership. The 1.8-litre engine, still used in the 2012 model, is frugal, uses regular unleaded and performance, with the six-speed manual or four speed auto, is reasonable.

It’s very easy to drive and park, with great vision, light, precise controls, comfortable seats and a durable, high quality interior. There’s enough back seat space to accommodate a couple of teenage kids; the sedan also has a huge boot. This Corolla also scored five ANCAP stars when fitted with seven airbags; there’s no traction or stability control on 2007-2008 models, though.

TOYOTA COROLLA - see other Toyota Corolla verdicts

 

Model: 2007 Toyota Corolla Conquest
Engine: 4-cylinder, 1.8-litre petrol, 100kW/175Nm
Transmission: 6-speed manual or 4-speed auto, front-wheel drive
Thirst: 7.4L/100km, CO2 173g/km
Safety: 5 ANCAP stars
Body: 4-door sedan, 5-door hatch
Dimensions: 4540mm (l), 1760mm (w), 1475mm (h), 2600mm (wheelbase)
Tyres: 205/55 R16 91V, 16” alloy

You’re looking at a 2007-2008 R model hatch or a 2008 sedan, with a dour 100kW 2.0-litre engine that prefers premium. Five-speed manual or four-speed auto transmissions. Impreza R’s standard spec sheet reads like a 2012 model: all-wheel drive, six airbags, stability control, cruise control and Data Dot identification.

Impreza sedan is a more practical, spacious kid carrier than the hatch; both were the safest small cars available in 2007-2008, with five star ANCAP scores. If Subarus are scheduled by the book, they’re reliable; if not, they can be temperamental. The engine will probably use a bit of oil. This doesn’t necessarily indicate a problem; Subaru says check it monthly, or every 500 kilometres.

SUBARU IMPREZA - see other Subaru Impreza verdicts

 

Model: 2007 Subaru Impreza R model hatch
Engine: 4-cylinder, 2.0-litre petrol, 110kW/196Nm
Transmission: 5-speed manual, 4-speed sports auto, four-wheel drive
Thirst: 8.9L/100km, CO2 210g/km
Safety: 5 ANCAP stars
Body: 5-door hatch, 5 seats
Dimensions: 4415 mm (l), 1740mm (w), 1475mm (h), 2620mm (wheelbase)
Tyres: 205/55 R16 89V, 16” steel

Among many good things going for the i30 is the fact that if you pick up a 2008-2009 model you’ll still have at least 12 months coverage on the car’s standard five years/unlimited kilometres factory warranty. Chances are you won’t need it, because the i30 is bulletproof, and cheap to run. Pick of the range for economy and performance is the i30 1.6-litre turbodiesel, Carsguide’s 2007 Car of the Year. The 2.0-litre petrol is a strong, reliable engine too.

Hyundai was the first maker to offer full iPod connectivity as standard in an affordable car with the i30. The hatch was joined in 2009 by the CW wagon, which has a family-sized boot. Go for base SX spec with the optional six airbags/stability control safety pack, giving it a four star ANCAP rating.

HYUNADAI I30 - see other Hyundai i30 verdicts

Model: 2008 Hyundai i30 SX
Engine: 4-cylinder, 2.0-litre, 105kW/186Nm
Transmission: 5-speed manual, front-wheel drive
Thirst: 7.2/100km, CO2 170g/km
Safety: 4 ANCAP stars
Body: 5-door hatch, 5 seats
Dimensions: 4245mm (l), 1775mm (w), 1480mm (h), 2650mm (wheelbase)
Tyres: 195/65 R15, 15” steel

Blue-chip Japanese engineering doesn’t get any better than the Mazda3. It’s also the pick of this contest as a drive. You’re looking at a 2008 Neo Sport hatch or sedan, which should have the optional safety pack fitted. This includes six airbags and stability control. The 2008 model is a four star ANCAP scorer.

The 2.0-litre four is strong, responsive and runs on regular unleaded. Handling is agile and secure and on the road the car feels solid and polished. The stylish, durable interior has ample space for four, complemented by useful boot volume. The standard equipment list is stingy in Neo Sport spec; if you’re lucky, you may find a Maxx Sport, with cruise, 16-inch alloys and classier trim.

MAZDA 3 - see other Mazda 3 verdicts

Model: 2008 Mazda3 Neo Sport hatch
Engine: 4-cylinder, 2.0-litre, petrol, 108kW/182Nm
Transmission: 5-speed manual, 4-speed sports auto, front-wheel drive
Thirst: 8.2L/100km, CO2 194g/km
Safety: 4 ANCAP stars
Body: 5-door hatch, 4-door sedan, 5 seats
Dimensions: 4400mm (l), 1755mm (w), 1465mm (h), 2640mm (wheelbase)
Tyres: 195/65 R15 91V, 15” alloy

The Lancer was (and still is) heavily discounted when new, so you can pick up a late-model used one on the cheap: a 2009 or maybe even 2010 ES sedan or hatch (Sportback in Mitsubishi-speak). There’s nothing wrong with the big, basic Lancer except that it’s so stupendously boring. Still, in the car business, boring usually means reliable, durable and grief free, which the Lancer certainly is.

The 2.0-litre petrol engine has plenty of power and goes well on regular unleaded; you can have it with a smooth, efficient CVT transmission, which works beautifully around town. Stability control is standard; seven airbags were optional on 2009 ES and standard on the 2010 model. You’ll also have plenty of coverage left on the five years/130,000 kilometres warranty.

MITSUBISHI LANCER - see other Mitsubishi Lancer verdicts

 

Model: 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer ES
Engine: 4-cylinder, 2.0-litre petrol, 113kW/198Nm
Transmission: 5-speed manual, 6-speed CVT optional, front-wheel drive
Thirst: 7.6L/100km, CO2 182g/km
Safety: 4 ANCAP stars
Body: 4-door sedan, 5 seats
Dimensions: 4570mm (l), 1760mm (w), 1490mm (h), 2635mm (wheelbase)
Tyres: 205/60 R16 92H, 16” steel

RIVALS

Ford Focus

The 2008-2009 Focus was engineered in Europe; ours were imported from South Africa, so quality and reliability aren’t as bankable as Japanese and Korean rivals, but a well looked after Focus is worth considering because late model ones are cheap.

Shop around and you may find a 2010 2.0-litre petrol LX sedan or hatch, with very low kilometres and a year or so left on the three years/100,000 kilometres factory warranty.

FORD FOCUS - see other Ford Focus verdicts

Model: 2008-2009 2.0-litre petrol LX sedan or hatch
Engine:  4 Cylinder, 2.0 Litre 107kW /185Nm
Transmission: Sports Automatic, Front Wheel Drive
Body: 5 door hatch
Thirst: 8.2 / 100Km

Honda Civic

The Civic is big sedan, with the most sophisticated, fuel efficient small car drivetrain around in 2008, plus impeccable Honda quality, luxurious comfort and a smooth ride. So why isn’t it in the A team? No stability control or curtain airbags were available on the base VTi model, a bizarre omission only rectified in 2010.

If you can find a 2010 VTi Civic for $15,000, buy it.

HONDA CIVIC - see other Honda Civic verdicts

Model: Honda Civic 2008 VTi sedan
Engine:  4 Cylinder, 1.8 Litre 103kW/174Nm
Transmission: Automatic, Front Wheel Drive
Body: 4 Door Sedan
Thirst: 7.2 / 100Km

Hyundai Elantra

Like the i30 (which has the same 2.0 petrol engine), there’s a five years/unlimited kilometres warranty.

So the fact that you can get into a 2010 SLX sedan for $15,000 means you’re basically scoring a new car at a big, fat discount.

The only major caveat here is a three star ANCAP score for the base SX; go instead for the SLX, which has six airbags as standard.

 

HYUNDAI ELANTRA - see other Hyundai Elantra verdicts

 

Model: 2.0-litire 2010 SLX sedan
Engine: 4 Cylinder, 2.0 Litre, 105kW/186Nm
Transmission: Manual, Front Wheel Drive
Body: 4 Door Sedan
Thirst: 7.4 / 100Km

Kia Cerato

Shares DNA with the Hyundai Elantra, but you get a better 2.0-litre engine with more power, and less geriatric styling, in sedan or hatch body styles, both family-sized. You’re looking at a 2010 S or Si model, with the same warranty as the Hyundai, so you’re still covered against any unlikely problems for a few years.

Six airbags and stability control standard on Si; four star ANCAP.

KIA CERATO - see more Kia Cerato verdicts

Skoda Roomster

It’s a Volkswagen with a Czech badge, so the usual warnings apply about dubious reliability and high servicing costs, but if you want a small, perfectly-formed, five star family wagon, the eminently sensible and undeniably cute 2008 Roomster is almost irresistible.

The petrol 1.6 is as slow as Tuesday, and prefers 98 octane. So you’ll spend heaps on fuel even though it doesn’t use much. Aren’t European cars wonderful?

SKODA ROOMSTER - see more Skoda Roomster verdicts

 

Model: 2008 1.6-litre
Engine: 4 Cylinder, 1.6 Litre
Transmission: 5 speed manual
Body: 4 door wagon
Thirst: 7.0 / 100Km

 

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Mitsubishi Lancer 2009: Multiple safety recalls but I was told I'd have to wait, is this normal?

I agree, they've issued the recalls and as far as I can see it is Mitsubishi's responsibility to see they are actioned. Their attitude would suggest they aren't terribly interested in safety. Go back to Mitsubishi and suggest to them they need to take more interest in what is a safety issue serious enough for them to issue a recall. If that gets you nowhere write to the company's headquarters in Adelaide and address the letter to the CEO, Mutsuhiro Oshikiri.

800,000 cars recalled in two days
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Used Mitsubishi Lancer review: 2007-2013

It seems the Lancer has been around forever, much like the Toyota Corolla, but unlike the small Toyota it has never commanded a lot of attention from buyers.

Those who know recognise it as a solid, well-built, reliable small car that makes sense, but it's a car that has blended into the background rather than stand out from the crowd.

The CJ model that arrived in 2007 was a big step forward for the Lancer with a longer wheelbase and wider track, more room inside and more equipment.

Ignoring the hero sports model, the Evo, the models that were aimed at the mainstream were the ES entry level, the VR mid-ranger, and the sporty VR-X. Fresh styling was clean and attractive, although the cabin was still a touch bland.

There was enough room inside to accommodate five adults in comfort, the seating was comfortable, and the layout was neat and easy to navigate. Initially the only body style available was a sedan, but a hatch was added a year later.

A 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine was the main power source, and it put out 113 kW and 198 Nm and made it a solid performer in the class. The transmission options available with the 2.0-litre were a five-speed manual and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) as the automatic choice.

A six-speed sports mode had the CVT feeling more like a manual, which made it crisper and less soggy as CVTs can be.

A larger, 2.4-litre four was added to the range in 2008, and was the engine that powered the VR-X. At its peak it produced 125 kW and 226 Nm to give the sporty Lancer the performance it needed.

On the road the larger footprint from the longer wheelbase and wider track gave the Lancer a reassuring stability and balance. Compared to the outgoing model the CJ was quieter, more comfortable, and smoother.

On the safety front, the CJ boasted electronic stability control in its five-star safety package.

The Lancer follows a well-proven formula, there's nothing that should be cause for alarm by anyone contemplating buying one as a used car.

Owners report it is as well built and reliable

Almost all owners sing its praise. All report it as well built and reliable. The only complaints that crop up are about tyre noise, which some rate as high, and the cheap and cheerful interior.

Without major concerns focus instead on the general wear and tear items that come with age no matter the make or model. Inspect for oil or coolant leaks around the engine, listen for noises that seem out of place, and check for the all-important service record.

Mitsubishi recommends intervals of one-year or 15,000 km between services, and while that makes it easier on the hip pocket, some would say it's too long between oil changes.

Sludge is the enemy of all engines, but modern engines more so with their tight tolerances and tiny oil galleries. Old time mechanics would say it would better to change oil at around 10,000 km intervals.

When driving a Lancer equipped with the CVT transmission observe for any shuddering or hesitation on take-of that might suggest an issue. If in doubt have an experienced mechanic drive the car for you.

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Used Mitsubishi Lancer review: 1995-2014

Japanese designed and built to a high quality, Mitsubishi Lancer is at the forefront in the reliability stakes, so has long been popular on the used-car scene in Australia.

The Lancer began life as a small car, then gradually morphed into a medium model. From the new model launched in October 2007 it can be used as a family car if the kids aren’t yet into their hulking teenage years.

Interior space is good in the front seats in all models. Rear seat headroom can be tight in the older hatches, but is generally fine in the sedans and wagons due to their extended rooflines.

Lancer comes with a big variety of bodies: two-door coupes, three-door hatches, four-door sedans, five-door hatchbacks and five-door station wagons. Not all bodies were on offer at all times.

Mirage shares most of its out-of-sight parts with Lancer, the name change is simply a marketing ploy

Three-door hatchbacks built prior to 1996 were called Lancers, but the name was changed to Mitsubishi Mirage with the introduction of the new model of that year.

Mirage shares most of its out-of-sight parts with Lancer, the name change is simply a marketing ploy to try and create a new niche for the three-door. Imports of the Lancer-based Mirage ceased in 2004 although the name was reintroduced in 2013, this time in a small five-door hatchback.

Ride comfort in the standard Lancers is generally good, though rough Australian backroads can sometimes knock them about. This improved with later models, but try for yourself if you do a lot of country driving.

Engines are all four-cylinder units, with a big spread of capacities; 1.5, 1.8, 2.0 and finally 2.4 litres. The marketing strategy over the years saw the largest engine at any one time being first introduced in the upmarket models then gradually making its way down the line.

The ultra-hot Lancer Ralliart and Lancer Evolution (Evo) models provide stunning performance

The 2.4-litre powerplant has plenty of torque, giving the car excellent performance and safe overtaking, yet it doesn’t use a lot more fuel than the other powerplants.

Manual gearboxes are all five-speed units. Automatic transmissions from 1996 had four-speeds. The auto with the 2.4-litre engine has tiptronic functions in case the driver wants to override the computer and get more revs out of the engine.

If you do want real excitement, the ultra-hot Lancer Ralliart and Lancer Evolution (Evo) models provide stunning performance, but cost big bucks. However, the Lancer MR coupe of 1997 to 2004, while tamer than the Evo is still fun thanks to its firmer suspension and sharper steering.

Spare parts and repair prices are about average for this class and the Australian Mitsubishi dealer network is widespread and efficient.

The Lancer is relatively easy for the home mechanic to work on, with good underbonnet space and nothing particularly tricky in its layout.

Insurance charges are about average for the class in all but the sportier variants. You may need to raise a big loan to cover an Evo if you’re under the age of 25.

Though Mitsubishi has pulled out of local manufacture the company continues to operate as a major player here, now exclusively with imported cars. Lancer is at the vanguard of the new Mitsubishi Australia.

If possible, start the engine when it is completely cold. It should fire up within a couple of seconds and idle smoothly and quietly straight away.

If the engine puffs oily smoke from the exhaust under hard acceleration it may be due for an overhaul.

A manual gearbox should be slick and easy to use

Feel for an automatic transmission that is slow to engage gear or is inclined to change up and down unnecessarily.

A manual gearbox should be slick and easy to use. If not there could be troubles - fast changes down from third to second usually show the problem first.

Rust normally only gets into the body following poor quality panel repairs, but look over the lower areas of the body and the bottom corners of the doors, tailgate or bootlid just in case. Also look at the surrounds of the front and rear windscreens.

Check for panel repairs by looking for ripples in the panels; paint that doesn’t match from one panel to another; and tiny spots of paint on glass, badges, body trim and so on.

Don’t even think of buying until you've had a full professional inspection

Do a complete check of all interior surfaces, in particular the tops of the dashboard and the rear parcel shelf that may have drive out and cracked.

Look for rips in the seats, excess wear in the carpets and for damage in the luggage area.

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407 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo 2008-13 recalled
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