CE lancer review and facts

DR1FT

New Member
The Mitsubishi Lancer earned a reputation for quality and reliability right from its first introduction into Australia in 1974. It has always been a fully imported vehicle and as such has enjoyed a level of quality which has been a cut above the Australian average. The CE model was introduced in 1996, received a facelift in 1998 and was discontinued in 2002 to be replaced by the CG Model.

The 1996 Lancer was available in coupé, sedan and wagon with a choice of two basic equipment levels - the GLi and GLXi. The coupé was also available as the sporty MR. A limited edition VRX was offered in sedan and coupé body types.

The body style was unmistakably based around the Magna sedan yet the Lancer has an identity of its own with a European flavour. The rear lamps are large and readily visible and the fit and finish of the panels was typically good for an imported vehicle.

The Lancer has an identity of its own with a European flavour
Engine choices were 1.5 and 1.8 litre with all models available with automatic or manual transmissions. On the road the 1.5 litre engine is no slouch, but as expected the 1.8 litre engine provides a more spirited performance with brisk acceleration, hill climbing power to spare and good low speed torque. Mitsubishi have given the Lancer safe predictable handling. The power assisted front disc and rear drum brake system is a proven system which results in good brake performance requiring only medium pedal pressure to obtain good results, with no fade evident during our performance testing.

The manual transmission is smooth and easy to operate and the automatic transmission version is equipped with Smart Logic technology enabling the computer to learn a driver's style and map out a shift pattern to suit.

Fuel economy is good and comparable to the Nissan Pulsar and the Ford Laser. Drivers of the manual 1.8 litre engine can expect around 8.8 litres per 100km in the city and 7.5 litres per 100km on the open road.

Inside there is good room for four in the sedan and wagon although things are a little tighter for those in the rear of the coupé. The Lancer also incorporated many safety features and increased rigidity and strength in its body shell. The cabin area was made safer with the addition of reinforced door locks, emergency locking retractable seat belts, upgraded dash and door trim padding along with fire retardant trim materials. Driver and passenger air bags were optional.

The Lancer also adapted the Magna electronic engine immobiliser requiring the matching of codes via a transponder in the ignition key and lock.


Overall the Lancer is a lively performer with good looks and finish. As is often the case towards the end of a successful model run, the last ones are usually the best and that's how it is with Lancer - apart from a recall in the 1.5 litre built between Feb 99 and Aug 00 where there was a possibility that the crankshaft pulley bolt may come loose. As always, check for authenticated service records and look for signs of any previous accident damage.

https://www.mynrma.com.au/cps/rde/xchg/mynrma/hs.xsl/mitsubishi_lancer_used_car.htm
 
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