2003 Mitsubishi Lancer reviews and
buying guide.
2003
Mitsubishi Lancer resources:
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
The Mitsubishi line has a rally car history and few
have served with such distinction in this capacity as
the Lancer. This year, the 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer is
back with some options changes and, introduced late,
the "Evo" is rumored to be a factory-produced
all-wheel drive turbo version worthy of some of the
Paris-Dakar Rally winning models. Obviously, a sub-compact
car off the line is not going to allow just anybody
to simply step into rally-sport competition but, when
zipping along on the solid AWD base of a turbo Lancer
with lots of power at your fingertips, a sport suspension
and beefed-up brakes, it may be possible to dream it.
That said, the Lancer is really a family-favored car.
A wide range of trim-levels (ES, LS and O-Z Rally),
a decent balance between economy and power, a comfortable
ride and a good safety record means the Mitsubishi Lancer
is a big part of the companies commercial success and
a good value for the average consumer. This quality
vehicle is especially accessible and oriented toward
young people, new families and those on a tight budget
who still want quality where it counts.
Under the Hood
All the current Lancer models come with a 2-liter engine
coupled with either a 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual
transmission. This powerhouse is capable of 120 hp at
5500rpm and 130 lb-ft of torque at 4250. It gets excellent
mileage with 33mpg on the highway with the manual transmission
(30mpg with the AT). City specs for mileage are in the
mid-twenties with 24 and 26 mpg, depending on which
transmission is running.
All models have dual-front airbags. Tires on the base
ES model are 185/60R15 but this rises to 195/60HR15
on the luxury oriented LS and the sport O-Z Rally. Beyond
that the Rally model has mostly styling changes to mark
its trim level. Aerodynamic body cladding, unique alloy
wheels and a rear spoiler mark out this model. Optional
safety add-ons include front-side airbags and antilock
brakes.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
The Mitsubishi Lancer line is designed to be accessible
to those on a limited budget but it still maintains
a pretty solid collection of standard amenities on the
base ES model. A Convenience package allows even more
flexibility to this level as it adds some more value,
including remote keyless entry and a split-folding rear
seat with an armrest, without requiring an upgrade to
the next trim level.
Without this package, the Lancer ES has standard equipped
interior amenities as follows: air conditioning, AM/FM/CD
player, power windows, doors, mirrors and steering plus
a more items. The LS adds remote keyless entry, cruise
control, variable-intermittent wipers and matched floor
mats while the O-Z rally refines the interior with a
unique sporty trim.
2009 Mitsubishi Pricing:
2009 Mitsubishi Lancer car prices - dealer cost
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