2017 Mitsubishi Lancer Review
The Mitsubishi Lancer is a compact sedan that won the hearts of a number of car enthusiasts primarily because of its affordable price, handling capabilities, good fuel economy, and sporty exterior styling. The Lancer which was marketed as the Mitsubishi Galant Fortis in Japan and Colt Lancer in other regions was discontinued in 2017 with the exception of China and Taiwan. Its rivals included the Toyota Allion, Toyota Premio, Audi A4, Nissan Sylphy, Mazda Axela, and Subaru Impreza.
Detailed Review
2017 Mitsubishi Lancer front and side view
The Mitsubishi Lancer made its debut in 1973 and its first generation was in production until 1979. The second iteration of the Lancer kicked off its production in 1979 and continued up to 1982. From 1982 to 2003, the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth models of the Lancer were manufactured. In this period, Mirage-based Lancer were availed.
The eighth generation of the Lancer launched its production earlier on in 2000 and was manufactured up to 2007. From 2007 to 2016, the Lancer was in its 9th iteration and it was later on discontinued in 2017 while in its tenth generation.
The 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer was available with two engine options, a 1.8 L (Petrol), and a 2.0 L (Petrol) linked to either a 5-speed manual or Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
2017 Mitsubishi Lancer grades
- Mitsubishi Lancer ES- This grade comes with Bluetooth connectivity, power windows, AM/FM Radio, multiple airbags, keyless entry, and climate control.
- Mitsubishi Lancer SE- This grade features blind-spot monitoring, traction control, an anti-lock braking system, an upgraded sound system, and a rear-view camera.
- Mitsubishi Lancer SEL- This grade has a few leather touches, power mirrors, privacy glass, Bluetooth connectivity, an air conditioner, and a forward collision warning system.
- Mitsubishi Lancer GT- This grade has satellite navigation, traction control, AM/FM Radio, a 12-volt power outlet, a centralized door lock, power windows, and a sunroof.
Interior
Legroom & Space
The 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer has a plain interior with minimal luxury features as compared to its rivals in the same class. The first row offers plenty of legroom and headroom. The second row also has enough knee room and headroom.
2017 Mitsubishi Lancer first row
Cabin Storage
The 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer is fitted with two cup holders, a center console, door panel storage, and a glove box compartment in the first row. The second row has door panel storage and two cupholders mounted on the armrest.
Boot Space
The 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer boasts a sizeable cargo area that can hold small and large freight, but compared to its competitors, it has a smaller boot space.
Exterior
The 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer has a sporty and sleek exterior styling that is quite similar to the other Mitsubishi’s sedan design cues. The front end of the Lancer depicts a “shark-like” look owing to its signature look of a massive grille adorned with the Mitsubishi emblem hence the aggressiveness. Its hood is nicely sculpted and depending on the owner’s taste a hood scoop can be added to give it a more muscular look. The headlights lend it a refined appearance as well as the fog lights in the lower fascia which come in very handy when driving in mist-prone or dusty areas.
The side profile features beautiful alloy wheels that help in enhancing the overall aesthetics of the Lancer. The Lancer does not compromise on its rear as it incorporates stylish taillights and turn signals. A trunk spoiler is well positioned right on the trunk to not only improve the aerodynamic flow but also make the car look more sportier and eye-catching.
2017 Mitsubishi Lancer front and side view
2017 Mitsubishi Lancer rear and side view
2017 Mitsubishi Lancer Safety Features
The 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer features multiple airbags, traction control, lane keep assist, traction control, cruise control, anti-lock braking system, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, and forward collision mitigation.
2017 Mitsubishi Lancer Fuel Consumption
2017 Mitsubishi Lancer 1.8 L petrol engine consumption- 16.3 km/l on average
2017 Mitsubishi Lancer 2.0 L petrol engine consumption- 15.2 km/l on average
2017 Mitsubishi Lancer Acceleration
2017 Mitsubishi Lancer 1.8 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 11.4 secs
2017 Mitsubishi Lancer 2.0 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.6 secs
The 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer Fuel Tank Capacity: 59 liters
Ground Clearance: The 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer has a ground clearance of 6.0 inches which is below the required standard of 6.5 inches on Kenyan roads.
Service Intervals
Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.
Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.
Spare Parts and Availability
Mitsubishi Lancer spares, especially body parts are not as easily available in Kenya and they are sometimes expensive. Service parts are fairly affordable and easy to find within Nairobi and other major towns.
Stability And Handling
The 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer has an agile and superb driving experience. It has a very responsive steering wheel that adapts very well to any kind of turn and this can be proved while driving in confined spaces or when even overtaking on highways. Due to its low ground clearance and high center of gravity, the Lancer has a very agile handling that makes it nimble when approaching tight corners.
The suspension system is very rigid and its impact is largely felt when traversing uneven road surfaces as it absorbs all the bumpiness of the rough road. Just like any other Mitsubishi sedan that comes equipped with stability control systems to improve traction, the Lancer is not an exception and this feature makes it stand out amongst its rivals.
Forward collision mitigation system, traction control, and anti-lock braking system are all incorporated in the Lancer amongst other technologies to improve the stability of the Lancer.
2017 Mitsubishi Lancer steering wheel
2017 Mitsubishi Lancer cluster meter
2017 Mitsubishi Lancer manual gear shift
2017 Mitsubishi Lancer wheel
Reliability
The 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer is considered a reliable car. Due to its low ground clearance, it is advisable not to drive the Lancer in off-road terrains as you risk damaging its body components. Transmission troubles, suspension issues as well as electrical malfunctions are the most commonly reported problems in this car. Regular service and maintenance are essential to avoid experiencing such problems.
Refer to the Mitsubishi Lancer buyer guide for a thorough reliability report. We also urge that you always follow the instructions in the owner’s manual.
Resale Value: Average
Mitsubishi Lancer Competitors: Toyota Allion, Toyota Premio, Audi A4, Nissan Sylphy, Mazda Axela, and Subaru Impreza.
What we like about the 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer
Stellar fuel economy
Secure and sporty when going through turns
What we don’t
The steering wheel is not telescopic
Minimal to zero luxurious fittings
Conclusion
The 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer is more of a utilitarian sedan that has excellent fuel economy, and agile handling. Buyers who are after luxurious amenities will not find the Lancer ideal. The 5-speed manual model has a driving thrill that is very engaging and this will suit enthusiasts who value performance. For the CVT versions, it gives a smooth drive and of course, it goes without saying that they are fuel economical.
2017 Mitsubishi Lancer side view
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