The Mitsubishi Lancer is a compact car produced by the Japanese manufacturer Mitsubishi Motors since 1973. It has been known as the Colt Lancer,Dodge/Plymouth Colt, Chrysler Valiant Lancer, Chrysler Lancer, Eagle Summit, Hindustan Lancer, Soueast Lioncel, and Mitsubishi Mirage in various countries at different times, and has been sold as the Mitsubishi Galant Fortis in Japan since 2007. It has also been sold as Mitsubishi Lancer Fortis in Taiwan with a different facelift compared to Galant Fortis. In Japan, it was sold at a specific retail chain called Car Plaza.
Between its introduction in 1973 and 2008, over six million Lancers had been sold.
| Mitsubishi Lancer | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Mitsubishi Motors |
| Production | 1973–present |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Compact car |
1973–1979
The first Lancer (A70) was first launched in February 1973. It served to fill the gap between the Minica kei car and the larger Galant. The sporting 1600 GSR model began the Lancer's long and successful rally history, winning theSafari Rally twice and the Southern Cross Rallyfour times.
There were four body styles, two- and four-doorsedans, a two door hardtop coupe and a long-running five-door station wagon (built until replaced by the front-wheel drive Lancer/Mirage Van in March 1984). Engines were different 1.2-liter, 1.4-liter, and 1.6-liter fours.
This car was marketed under a variety of names: Dodge Colt in the United States, Plymouth Colt in Canada, Dodge Lancer in some Latin American countries, Chrysler Valiant Lancer in Australia, and Colt Lancer in some European markets.
Celeste
In February 1975 the Lancer was complemented by a hatchback called the Lancer Celeste, succeeding the Galant FTO. It was also called the Mitsubishi Celeste or Colt Celeste in some markets; and sold as the Chrysler Lancer in Australia, the Dodge Lancer Celeste in El Salvador, the Plymouth Arrow in the United States, and the Dodge Arrow in Canada.
The Celeste was originally available with 1.4- and 1.6-liter options, while a bigger 2.0-liter model was added later. An even larger 2.6-liter four was available in the US-market Plymouth Fire Arrow. The Celeste was facelifted in 1978, receiving square headlights and bigger squarer bumpers. Production of the Lancer Celeste ended in July 1981 and it was replaced by the front-wheel drive Cordia in early 1982.
1979–1987
| 1979–1987 | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Production | 1979–1987 |
| Designer | Aldo Sessano (design) Rakuzo Mitamura (engineering) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 4-door sedan |
| Layout | Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive |
| Platform | A172A–A176A |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 1244 cc 4G11 I4 (gasoline) 1.4 L 4G33 I4 (gasoline) 1.4 L 4G12 I4 (gasoline) 1.6 L 4G32 I4 (gasoline) 1.8 L 4G62 I4 (gasoline) 1.8 L 4G62 I4 (t/c gasoline) 2.0 L 4G63 I4 (t/c gasoline) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual 5-speed manual 3-speed automatic |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,440 mm (96.1 in) |
| Length | 4,230 mm (166.5 in) |
| Width | 1,620 mm (63.8 in) |
| Height | 1,380–1,390 mm (54.3–54.7 in) |
| Curb weight | 1,170–1,295 kg (2,600–2,850 lb) |
In 1979, the Lancer EX was unveiled in Japan. Only two engines were offered at the time, a 1.4-liter MCA-JET equipped engine paired with Mitsubishi's Silent Shaft Technology, which generated 80 hp (60 kW) and a 1.6-liter engine that generated 85 hp (63 kW) and 100 hp (75 kW). The MCA-JET system was an entirely new concept when compared with the previously used carburetor system. The MCA stands for Mitsubishi Clean Air which meant that the EX passed both Japan and US emission standards, while the new cylinder head design of the engine gave way for a Jet valve which introduced an extra swirl of air to the combustion chamber, swirling the fuel-air mixture for a cleaner, efficient and more thorough burn.
In addition to these improvements, another breakthrough in the Lancer lineup was the Silent Shaft Technology, which was actually two counterbalancing shafts that rotated in opposite directions, cancelling the power pulses inherent in an inline 4-cylinder engine. This reduced both engine noise and vibration, and provided a smoother driving experience. The 1.8-liter Sirius 80 engines were then introduced in the Lancer in 1980, along with a new 70 hp (52 kW), 1.2 L engine a year later, providing a broader range of engines for the Mitsubishi's Lancer. Also, a turbocharged, 99 kW (135 PS) engine was added in 1980 for sportier performance, and an intercooler system was also integrated in the existing turbocharged engine to produce 121 kW (165 PS) in 1983.
In 1980, The Lancer EX was introduced with a 1.8 L turbocharged 4-cylinder option known as the 1800GSR and GT Turbo. The first generation 1800GSR and GT were only available with a turbocharged, non-intercooled 135 PS (99 kW). However, in 1983, an intercooler was introduced, helping the turbocharged engine to produce 160 PS (118 kW).
In Europe, the Lancer EX was offered with the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine known as the Lancer EX 2000 Turbo. It achieved a maximum output of 125 kW (170 PS) and managed a top speed of 200 km/h (124 mph). This model was equipped with electronic fuel injection. A rally version of the Lancer EX 2000 Turbo was made for the 1000 Lakes Rally that gave out 206 kW (280 PS). Sales of this model were low because of emission regulations Japan imposed at that time.
1988–2000: Mirage-based Lancer
Between 1988 and 2000, the Lancer in Japan derived from the subcompact Mirage—itself sold in many export markets under the name Colt. Mitsubishi had originally launched the Mirage in 1978 as a front-wheel drive hatchback, with a sedan variant later released in 1982—and a version of which sold in Japan as Lancer Fiore. Five generations of Mirage were manufactured by Mitsubishi up until 2003, with new generations released in 1983, 1987 (with the equivalent Lancer delayed until 1988), 1991, and 1995. It was not until 1988—with the 1979 to 1987 Lancer now departed—that the Mirage-based Lancer eschewed the Fiore suffix.
Although naming conventions varied, for all generations, sedan versions of the Mirage were typically badged as Lancer in export markets, although notably not in the United States. In Japan, sedan variants of the Mirage and Lancer sold alongside one another with minor differences in trim. The station wagon, part of the 1983 and 1991 iterations, was typically known as the Lancer in export markets. Likewise, the Mirage coupe variant, available with the 1991 and 1995 generations, also became part of the Lancer lineup in some regions.
Mitsubishi introduced replacements for the Mirage starting in 2000, with a new generation of Lancer sedan—now larger having and moved up to the compact segment. Then in 2002, a subcompact five-door hatchback badged Colt internationally became available, thus substituting the Mirage hatchback. By 2003, the Mirage had been completely phased out of mainstream Japanese production and Lancer became the primary title for Mitsubishi's compact offerings.
Lancer Fiore
Between 1982 and 1987, the aforementioned Mirage sedan with minor styling modifications sold as the Lancer Fiore through Japanese retail channels. The Fiore spanned two generations, the second of which came to the market in 1983.
Internationally, the Fiore sedan often sold under the abbreviated name Lancer. Thus, with the rear-wheel drive Lancer as introduced in 1979 and the front-wheel drive Lancer Fiore, Mitsubishi had two similarly sized models competing in the same market segment, sometimes even while sharing the Lancer badge.
2000–2007
| 2000–2007 | |
|---|---|
_LS_sedan_(2011-10-25).jpg) | |
| Overview | |
| Also called | Mitsubishi Cedia Mitsubishi Virage (Taiwan) Soueast Lioncel II |
| Production | 2000–2007 |
| Assembly | Okazaki, Aichi, Japan (Nagoya Plant) Tiruvallur, chennai Tamil Nadu, India Barcelona, Anzoátegui, Venezuela Laem Chabang, Thailand (Mitsubishi Thailand) Cainta, Rizal, Philippines (Mitsubishi Philiphines) Yangmei, Taoyuan, Taiwan (China Motor) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 4-door sedan 5-door station wagon |
| Layout | Front-engine, front-wheel-drive |
| Platform | CS2A–CS9W |
| Related | Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 1.3 L 4G13 I4 (gasoline) 1.5 L 4G15 I4 (gasoline) 1.6 L 4G18 I4 (gasoline) 1.8 L 4G93 I4 (gasoline) 1.8 L 4G93 I4 (t/c gasoline) 2.0 L 4G94 I4 (gasoline) 2.0 L 4G63 I4 (gasoline) 2.4 L 4G69 I4 (gasoline) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual 4-speed semi-automatic 4-speed automatic CVT automatic (INVECS-III) |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,600 mm (102.4 in) |
| Length | 4,495–4,605 mm (177.0–181.3 in) |
| Width | 1,695 mm (66.7 in) |
| Height | 1,375–1,425 mm (54.1–56.1 in) |
The year 2000 saw the release of the Lancer Cedia in Japan (meaning Century Diamond); though in most markets the previous 1995 vintage Mirage-based Lancer continued on, built at Mitsubishi's Mizushima plant in Japan. The new model was available in sedan and station wagon forms. In Europe, the Lancer was not offered in some countries, being too close to the size of the Dutch-built Mitsubishi Carisma, so the Evo VII model sold there bore the Carisma name. This series of Lancer is still sold in Japan where the 2007 onwards generation Lancer is known as "Galant Fortis".
In 2003 for the 2004 model year, a heavily restyled Lancer surfaced with a front facia that brought it into line with the Mitsubishi corporate look, as well as a restyled rear, to further differentiate itself from the Lancer Evolution. The car's grille was then redesigned again in 2005 for the 2006 model year.
Marketing
- Asia
In Japan, the Lancer Cedia was offered with many different trim levels and engines, including some options never exported. It was also one of the first models to use the INVECS-III CVT transmission. There was also a Ralliart version of the sportswagon which was powered by a turbocharged 1.8 L GDI engine. As of 2009, this generation of Lancer sedan is still being sold alongside the newer 2007 era generation, which is known in the home market as the Galant Fortis.
_ES_sedan_01.jpg)
In Malaysia, the Lancer was made available after Mitsubishi had sold all its shares in Malaysian carmaker Proton, marking the return of Mitsubishi in Malaysian market after being absent since 1985 due to the agreement with Proton. The Lancer sold in Malaysia was powered by the 4G18 engine which also powered the early 1.6 Proton Waja model. In the Philippines, the Lancer underwent a facelift, now without the central semi-triangle in the grille. It is offered in 2 trims, the base GLX with a 5-speed manual and the GLS with an all-new INVECS-III CVT with manual override. Both are powered with an l4 1.6L 4G18 SOHC engine.
In Pakistan, this variant was launched in 2005 with cosmetic changes from the front and the back. Thai production was switched to the new model, and in all markets except for India the previous model was no longer marketed, four years after the Cedia's introduction. India received this 2000 era series of Lancer in 2006, known locally as the Mitsubishi Cedia to distinguish it from the previous version which was assembled and sold as the Lancer till June 2012, and Mitusbishi Cedia production closed in November 2012.
- Australia
In Australia, this series of Lancer was introduced as the CG series in July 2002 with the 2.0-liter 4G94 engine. The 2003 facelift, designated the CH series,introduced a heavily updated VR-X, which included new 16" alloys, stiffer suspension, body styling kit, and gear shifter borrowed from the Lancer Evolution. In 2004, the new Lancer wagon was introduced as a direct replacement for its ageing predecessor.
_ES_sedan_03.jpg)
In August 2005, all Lancers were upgraded to the 2.4 L 4G69 engine, producing 115 kW (154 hp) and 220 N·m (162 lb·ft) of torque. The upgraded engine also saw a change in trim levels and upgraded equipment—the ES and LS models now featured a more upmarket looking black interior, while the VR-X gained a new black grille to closer resemble the Lancer Evolution IX. The equipment levels of all models were also upgraded, with the LS and VR-X gaining climate control, and a premium audio system sourced from the luxury Mitsubishi Verada. The Exceed model was discontinued, and all updated models now used JDM sized rear bumpers instead of the larger USDM sized versions. Additionally, the wagon also saw these changes; and as of 2007, continues to be sold alongside the sedan.
The ES and LS models were given a minor facelift for the 2007 model year; this time gaining the same front grille as the US models, and putting it into line with the current corporate look—similar to that of the Colt and the locally built 380. A limited edition ES model dubbed "Velocity" went on sale prior to this generation being replaced. This package included VR-X grill, rear spoiler, leather/alcantara bolsted seats, sports pedals, 15" OZ alloy wheels and chrome exhaust tip—all for the same price as the previous standard ES.
- Europe
In some European markets, the Lancer began to take the place of the Carisma in 2004. It is powered by a 1.3 L SOHC 16 valve 4G13 engine producing 82 PS (60 kW) at 5,000 rpm and 120 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, 1.6 L SOHC 4G18 engine producing 98 PS (72 kW) at 5,000 rpm and 150 Nm at 4,000 rpm and a 2.0 L DOHC 4G63 producing 135 PS (99 kW) at 5,750 rpm and 176 Nm at 4,500 rpm.
- North America
In North America, the Lancer was introduced in 2001 for the 2002 model year as a direct replacement for the Mirage. In the United States, Chrysler offered an unrelated Dodge Lancer at various stages between the 1950s and 1980s. However, when Chrysler briefly controlled Mitsubishi through the DaimlerChrysler-Mitsubishi alliance from 2000 through to 2004, the license to the "Lancer" name was relinquished to Mitsubishi for usage in North America. Consequently, after Mitsubishi discontinued the 1995 series Mirage for North America in 2001, the replacement model adopted the Lancer name for the first time.
North American Lancers were powered by a 2.0-liter 4G94 engine producing 120 hp (92 kW) and 130 lb·ft (176 N·m) of torque. In Mexico, the Lancer sedan was available in DE, ES, LS and GS trims with a 2.0 L DOHC 4G63 engine.
For the 2005 model year, the grille was changed to include more fins to reflect a closer similarity to the North American Galant. For the 2006 model year, the fascia was changed again from a bridged fascia to one with an open vent after Mitsubishi received complaints from current owners regarding its similarity in appearance to General Motors Division Pontiac's corporate look, and to bring the appearance closer to its bigger brother, the Evolution.
In addition to the facelift, North America received two additional models to the Lancer line in 2004 – Sportback and Ralliart. The latter slated in between the base and high-performance Evolution model. Both the Sportback and Ralliart had high levels of equipment, based on the Australian Lancer VR-X. The main difference being that these cars came equipped with Mitsubishi's 2.4L 4G69 engine (rated at 160 hp (119 kW)/162 lb·ft (220 N·m) for the Sportback, and 162 hp (121 kW)/162 lb·ft (220 N·m) for the Ralliart), included a new, stiffer suspension package that improved handling and lowered the cars stance by 1 centimeter, 16" alloy wheels, front bucket seats borrowed from Japan's Mitsubishi Evolution GT-A, fog lamps, and a new aerodynamic ground package. The Ralliart also came equipped with a cosmetic rear deck spoiler, and clear rear tail lights. The Sportback was equipped with a 4-speed INVECS-II automatic transmission, with no option for a manual transmission, while the Ralliart came with a 5-speed manual transmission with an option for the 4-speed automatic. The Sportback was also available in the lower spec LS trim.
Due to Mitsubishi's deteriorating financial situation and slow sales, the Lancer Sportback wagon was cancelled in the United States one year after its release. But the Mitsubishi Lancer wagon was sold in Canada for a while longer.
2007–present
| 2007–present | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Also called | Mitsubishi Galant Fortis (Japan) Proton Inspira (Malaysia) |
| Production | 2007–present |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 4-door sedan 5-door hatchback |
| Layout | Front-engine, front-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive |
| Platform | CY2A–CZ4A |
| Related | Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Chrysler Sebring Dodge Avenger Proton Inspira Chrysler 200 |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 1.5 L 4A91 I4 (gasoline) 1.6 L 4A92 I4 (gasoline) 1.8 L 4B10 I4 (gasoline) 2.0 L 4B11 I4 (gasoline) 2.4 L 4B12 I4 (gasoline) 2.0 L VW I4 (diesel) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual 6-speed semi-automatic (Ralliart) 4-speed automatic (INVECS-II) CVT automatic (INVECS-III) |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,635 mm (103.7 in) |
| Length | 4,570 mm (179.9 in) Sportback: 4,585 mm (180.5 in) |
| Width | 1,760 mm (69.3 in) |
| Height | 1,490 mm (58.7 in) Sportback: 1,515 mm (59.6 in) |
| Curb weight | 1,230–1,415 kg (2,700–3,120 lb) 1,570–1,593 kg (3,500–3,510 lb) (Ralliart) |
In 2005, Mitsubishi revealed the Concept-X model car at the Tokyo Motor Show and its Concept-Sportback model at the Frankfurt motor show. The new Lancer is based on these two concepts. The new Lancer was officially revealed in January 2007 at the Detroit Motor Show and went on sale in North American markets on March 2007 as a 2008 model. New Lancer features Mitsubishi's next-generation RISE safety body.
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