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Mitsubishi Lancer

Mitsubishi Lancer was the first car launched by alliance of Japanese auto major Mitsubishi Motors and Hindustan Motors of India. It was an immediate hit among the Indian audiences and provided them with a sporty sedan that offered optimum comfort and convenience features. An unmatched blend of innovative technology, styling and performance, Mitsubishi Lancer has complemented Indian road conditions. The sedan provided a comprehensive introduction to the joint venture between. The long-haul sporty Lancer has been delighting Indian audience for over 13 years.

Available in petrol as well as diesel fuel types, Lancer is integrated with high-performance engines and advance technologies for delivering a sporty performance. The sporty character of the vehicle is complemented by wax injection that provides corrosion resistance in rust prone areas. New age features, such as tilt adjustable power steering, under-thigh support and driver door mounted controls, improve driveability of the car. Moreover, this sedan has a comfortable cabin and offers generous luggage space, sufficient legroom and headroom.

Safety is another defining characteristic of Mitsubishi Lancer, which features absorbing elements to neutralise impact energy of front and rear collisions. Sturdy cabin structure, central fuel tank, ventilated disc brakes and collapsible steering column are other noteworthy safety aspects of the car.

Mitsubishi Lancer Launch History:

After tasting grand success on the global stage, Mitsubishi Lancer was introduced in India in the year 1998. This was the first model launched by the Mitsubishi Motors Corporation - Hindustan Motors alliance in India, which later rolled out several models in the country. When this sedan was first launched in the international market in 1973, it was called Lancer (A70). Since then, there have been nine generations of the model with several modifications and revisions.

Currently, the four-door sedan is available in two variants in India, namely Lancer LX 1.5 petrol and Lancer LX 2.0 diesel. The Japanese automaker has reworked the model to suit Indian road conditions, with slight revisions in technology, interiors and exteriors.

Mitsubishi Lancer Variants:

Mitsubishi Lancer is available in two variants namely Mitsubishi Lancer 1.5 L Petrol and Mitsubishi Lancer 2.0 L Diesel. Configured in two engine types, the car provides an opportunity to potential buyers to choose a vehicle that runs on their preferred fuel.

The two variants of Mitsubishi Lancer are detailed below:

Mitsubishi Lancer Pricing:

Mitsubishi Lancer price ranges between Rs. 7.20 lacs to Rs. 8.05 lacs. Mitsubishi Lancer 1.5 L Petrol LX variant is available within the price bracket of Rs. 7.20 lacs to Rs. 7.50 lacs, whereas Mitsubishi Lancer 2.0 L Diesel LX comes at a price tag of Rs. 8.00 lacs to 8.10 lacs.

Mitsubishi Lancer Review:

Mitsubishi Lancer was the evolutionary sedan that grabbed attention of sports sedan enthusiasts in India due to its sporty character. Launched in the mid-sized sedan segment, the car was pitted against the likes of Hyundai Accent and Maruti Esteem. Over the years, competition has further increased, with Maruti Suzuki SX4, Hyundai Verna Transform, Ford Fiesta, Fiat Linea and Chevrolet Optra Magnum joining the league.

The sedan has an advantage of excellent acceleration and sporty design on its side against other feature-loaded models in its segment. The exterior elements describe the car as a bold sedan, with rear combination lamps, clear lens headlamps, vertical front grill and body coloured door handles being the highlights. Interiors of Mitsubishi Lancer are impressive as well, adorned by premium class fabric upholstery and other refined interior elements. Comfortable sitting posture, retractable assist grip and power steering with tilt adjustment and effective air-conditioning with rear ducts take complete care of passenger comfort.

As far as on-road performance of the car is concerned, Mitsubishi Lancer has impressed industry experts and auto aficionados. Fuel supply equipment ECI multi and distribution type injection pump technologies in variants ensure optimum fuel consumption. Moreover, advanced suspension mechanism and braking capabilities provide stability to the car. The sedan is quite spacious, with plenty of headroom and legroom for front as well as rear passengers. In addition to modern accessories, there are various comfort, convenience and passive safety arrangements within the car to justify its price tag.

Mitsubishi Lancer Used Car Market:

In the used car market of India, Mitsubishi Lancer has limited demand as rival car manufacturers provide many more features at the same price tag. Known for its powerful acceleration and appearance, sedan is just managing to create a space in the second hand car market. Adding to the woes of Mitsubishi is the limited availability of spare parts of the model, which forces potential buyers to reconsider decision of buying used Lancer cars.

Mitsubishi Lancer Specifications:

Technical configurations of petrol and diesel variants differ due to assimilation of engines of different capacity. The petrol variant, 1.5 LX Petrol, is loaded with a 4 cylinder In-line SOHC, 12 Valve MPI engine. This powerful engine renders peak output of 87 bhp at 5500 rpm and generates maximum torque of 132 Nm at 3300 rpm.

On the other hand, 2.0 L LX Diesel is assembled with a 4 cylinder In-line SOHC, 8 Valve IDI engine. This engine is capable of delivering maximum power output of 68 bhp at 4500 rpm and highest torque of 123 Nm at 3000 rpm.

Mitsubishi Lancer Exteriors

Exterior Appearance:

The designing excellence in Mitsubishi Lancer of Mitsubishi has successfully grabbed the attention of Indian audience. Impressive contemporary appearance showcases the boldness and sporty character of the vehicle. Curvy headlamps, body colour door handles, bumpers and ORVMs and aggressive front grille are among the distinctive exterior features of this car. Some other noteworthy exterior elements of Mitsubishi Lancer include front fog lights, rear window defogger, high mounted tail lamps, sporty roof antenna, wheel covers and tinted windscreen.

Exterior Measurements:

Exterior measurements of Mitsubishi Lancer are tabulated below:

Mitsubishi Lancer Interiors

Interior Appearance:

Interiors of Mitsubishi Lancer are impressive and fine-tuned in comparison to those of the inaugural edition model. A touch of elegance and refinement is illustrated in the interiors of Mitsubishi Lancer. Fabric upholstery, dual tone dashboard and leather-covered steering wheel add to the beauty of its interiors. Dashboard of the car exhibits the highest degree of sophistication and features an array of controls.

Interior Comfort:

The four-door sedan is loaded with several features to improve the comfort level of the passengers. The cabin has ample space to accommodate five passengers easily. Its seating arrangement is adequately cushioned and includes headrests and armrests for passenger comfort. Features like remote trunk opener, remote fuel lid opener, low fuel warning light, accessory power outlet, cup holders, trunk light and vanity mirror ensure complete interior comfort.

Interior Measurements:

Mitsubishi Lancer is a spacious sedan with plenty of headroom and legroom for rear as well as front occupants. The front leg room within the car is 1090 mm, whereas legroom for rear passengers is measured as 730 mm.

Mitsubishi Lancer Mileage, Average and Fuel Economy:

The petrol variant of Mitsubishi Lancer has a high-performance 1468 cc petrol engine, coupled with 5-speed manual transmission system and fuel optimising technology. This engine delivers combined mileage of 13 kmpl. On the other hand, the 1998 cc diesel engine has distribution type injection pump for effective fuel combustion. The diesel variant delivers combined fuel economy of 16 kmpl.

Mitsubishi Lancer On-road Drive:

Mitsubishi Lancer is a delight for sports sedan enthusiasts owing to its excellent engine configuration, acceleration, suspension and deceleration mechanism. High-performance engine of the car is complemented by a swift 5-speed manual transmission for rendering a smooth driving experience. Fuel supply equipment ECI multi and distribution type injection pump in petrol and diesel variants, respectively, optimise fuel consumption.

The sedan has an excellent suspension mechanism that comprises McPherson Strut with coil spring & stabiliser bar in the front and independent multi-link rear suspension with stabiliser bar at the rear. Furthermore, gas filled shock absorbers minimise jerks while driving. For deceleration, Lancer is fitted with ventilated disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear.

Mitsubishi Lancer Power:

A powerful sedan, Mitsubishi Lancer is available in petrol as well as diesel engines of different capacities. 1.5 L LX petrol is assimilated with a 4 cylinder In-line SOHC, 12 Valve MPI engine that churns out 87 bhp at 5500 rpm and delivers maximum torque of 132 Nm at 3300 rpm. On the other hand, 2.0 L LX Diesel model is equipped with a 4 cylinder In-line SOHC, 8 Valve IDI engine that produces maximum power output of 68 bhp at 4500 rpm. The diesel engine of Lancer car has maximum torque generation capability of 123 Nm at 3000 rpm.

Mitsubishi Lancer Acceleration and Pick Up:

In context of acceleration and pick up, Mitsubishi Lancer has impressed aficionados and buyers. With a smooth 5-speed manual transmission, the car gains momentum quite swiftly. The petrol variant, 1.5 L Petrol LX reaches maximum speed of 175 kmph, while diesel variant 2.0 L Diesel LX has clocked maximum speed of 155 kmph. Moreover, the minimum turning radius of     5.1 m allows drivers to accelerate the car easily on congested roads.

Mitsubishi Lancer Safety and Security:

There are several active and passive safety arrangements in Mitsubishi Lancer. Several critical areas are reinforced to ensure utmost safety of occupants, averting risk of injury in the event of a mishap. 3-stage crumple zones help absorb impact energy while rigid monocoque body shell builds protective guard for safety of occupants seated within. Centrally mounted fuel tank, collapsible steering column, 3-point ELR seatbelts and dual side impact bars are among the highlighting safety features of Mitsubishi Lancer. Moreover, fog lights provide safety and prevent occurrence of an accident even in case of poor road visibility.

Mitsubishi Lancer Comfort and Convenience:

Comfort and convenience issues have been well-addressed in the Mitsubishi Lancer. It has a comfortable seating arrangement, with the ergonomic front seat design ensuing utmost comfort of passengers. Among other notable comfort and convenience features of the sporty sedan include tilt adjustable steering wheel, power windows and adjustable mirrors. Double glove box, front door pockets, cell-phone pocket, coat hanger, coin storage compartment, driver's footrest, front / rear ash trays and sunglass holder further add to the convenience of occupants.

Mitsubishi Lancer Wheels:

Mitsubishi Lancer is fitted with tyres measuring 175/80 R13, which have been acknowledged for rendering cars with firm grip on roads.

Mitsubishi Lancer Stereo and Accessories:

In interest of enthusiasts, Mitsubishi Lancer features various accessories. A modern music console with mp3 / CD / radio capabilities is one of the highlighting accessories of the sedan. Besides the music console, there is an effective air-conditioning system as a noteworthy accessory. Air-conditioning, with front as well as rear ducts, ensures a pleasant journey for passengers even in sweltering heat.

Mitsubishi Lancer Dealers:

Mitsubishi has been in India for over a decade now. Since the introduction of Lancer in the year 1997, Mitsubishi has come a long way in the country. Over the years, Mitsubishi Motors India has expanded operations across the country, establishing a widespread circle of authorised distributors.

The flagship Mitsubishi Lancer dealership stores are listed below:

Mitsubishi Lancer Competitor Analysis:

Introduced in 1997, Mitsubishi Lancer faced limited competition from models like Daewoo Cielo. Over the years, competition grew for Lancer with entry of Hyundai Accent and Maruti Esteem. At present, Mitsubishi Lancer contends with Maruti Suzuki SX4, Hyundai Verna Transform, Ford Fiesta, Fiat Linea and Chevrolet Optra Magnum.

Coming on the top is the sedan from GM Motors, Chevrolet Optra Magnum. The company has launched this car in two variants - Optra Magnum LS and LT. Both of these variants possess similar technical specifications, but little changes are present in the interiors and comfort features. The variants of the Magnum produce a maximum displacement and power of 1598 cc and 102 hp, respectively. With its engine configuration, the Chevrolet car produces power similar to that of Mitsubishi Lancer.

Regarding the interior features, the top variant of Optra Magnum is available with all advanced interior features, such as leather upholstry, beige interiors and dual tone instrument panel, among others. The variants also come with high end comfort features like comfortable seats, height adjustable driver seat, central locking and power steering.

Another car in the competitor list of Mitsubishi Lancer is the all new Fiesta by Ford. This car from the American automotive giant has already made a stronghold in the Indian market. The variants of this car produce a maximum displacement of 1499 cc and the maximum power output is 107.5 hp.  With such an engine configuration, it is likely to give a tough competition to the Mitsubishi car. The Fiesta is available with comfort features such as front / rear power windows, tilt steering and adjustable rear headrests. Ford Fiesta 1.5 Titanium, which is the top variant, possesses all the requisite comfort features and makes things tough for Lancer cars.

Mitsubishi Lancer also competes against the Hyundai Verna Transform, which is also known as Hyundai Fluidic Verna now. The variants of this car deliver a powerful performance, though its excellent mileage still remains its USP. An impressive overall mileage of 17.4 kmpl creates an edge for this car and puts it ahead of Lancer. Moreover, the comfort and features are phenomenal, with ample leg space and spacious interiors providing optimum comfort even on long drives.         

Apart from foreign companies, Maruti Suzuki has also put forward a competitor, SX4, against Lancer. Maruti Suzuki SX4 is powered by a 16 V DOHC VT engine that produces maximum displacement of 1586 cc and has power output of 102 hp. This car has won the hearts of Indian buyers and put the company in a strong position. Utmost care of comfort has been taken in this Maruti car, which boasts of single zone Auto AC, heater, climate control mechanism, front door and front back seat pockets and central room lamp.

Amid such competition, Mitsubishi needs to rework its strategy regarding Lancer and refurbish the vehicle.

Mitsubishi Lancer LPG/CNG version:

Presently, the company has launched no LPG/CNG variants of Mitsubishi Lancer car.

Mitsubishi Lancer Pros:

Mitsubishi Lancer received overwhelming response from the target audience upon its introduction in India. Sports sedan enthusiasts praised the car for its striking sporty exteriors and comfortable interiors. Moreover, acceleration and pick up of Mitsubishi Lancer car remains the highlight of the model.

Mitsubishi Lancer Cons:

Besides an array of positives, Mitsubishi Lancer has various limitations. The limitations  against newly designed models in its segment are resulting in the withdrawal of the model from automotive market of India. Absence of safety airbags, leather seats, traction control and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) has given an upper hand to the rivals in its league. Moreover, several other essential arrangements and features are missing in the model.

Mitsubishi Lancer Conclusion:

Mitsubishi Lancer created niche for itself at the time of its launch and became one of the most desired cars in India. Eventually, excitement of owing a Lancer is fading due to minimal revisions in the existing model over the course of many years. However, the sporty sedan continues to impress with its excellent acceleration and exteriors design.