CAR FROM JAPAN - Find best deals of used cars from reliable Japanese sellersSearch Car

About Mitsubishi Lancer 2015

ByJohn Kelly-February 06, 2018

Aggressive styling cues along with available all-wheel drive and a lively driving personality made the current-generation Mitsubishi Lancer outstanding. The 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer is among the compact cars that are far more capable and desirable.

2015 Mitsubishi Lancer has added a few new standard features to base models, as well as repackaged a few features into a new Value Pack trim. All models now receive heated power mirrors with built-in turn indicators. SE models get a sportier front bumper and the FUSE handsfree bluetooth audio system. ES models get an optional Value Pack, which includes the upgraded infotainment system and a few upgraded interior materials. GT models with the CVT automatic transmission get a sunroof, the upgraded Rockford Fosgate sound system, and HID headlamps.

The overarching design of the Lancer attractive, bold, and practical, and it still manages to stand out in a good way, seven years after its introduction. Packaging and interior space are impressive, too, and this is one vehicle that makes smart use of its cabin dimensions. At issue, really are the interior details; from a distance, the instrument panel might be described as elegantly simple, yet up close the materials are disappointing, and there’s too much hard, hollow plastic. 

Are you looking for an used Mitsubishi Lancer car? CLICK HERE NOW

Although there the Lancer is lacking inspiration inside, it tends to make up for that with a neat, responsive driving experience. Steering is also nice and direct throughout the lineup, while handling is reassuring and a bit communicative for all but the more basic models. The Lancer ES has a 152-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that’s perky at lower speeds with the five-speed manual but barely gutsy enough with the continuously variable (CVT) automatic.

The 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer has some interesting styling cues on the exterior, but its uninspired interior design drags down the car’s overall appeal. Interior materials quality isn’t good either, as an abundance of hard plastic gives the Lancer a cheap feel.

Taller drivers will likely bemoan the lack of a telescoping steering wheel and the dearth of under-thigh seat support. On the other hand, the rear seats, with a generous amount of legroom, are comfortable. Cargo space isn’t as generous at 12.3 cubic feet and actually drops to 11.8 cubic feet with the optional Rockford Fosgate stereo (due to the addition of a subwoofer) and down further to a rather pathetic 9.1 in the Rockford Fosgate-equipped Ralliart.

Are you looking for an used Mitsubishi Lancer car? CLICK HERE NOW

Much like Ford’s Sync system, Mitsubishi’s Fuse voice-activation system assists in selecting a destination or your favorite music. The Fuse system lacks some of Sync’s functions and commands, but for the most part, it works pretty well. The touchscreen interface standard on all but the base ES has easily legible commands, but graphics quality falls behind most competitors.

The base 2.0-liter engine in the 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer will likely be powerful enough for most daily commutes, but is quite noisy during passing and merging maneuvers. The programming of the CVT only makes the problem worse, because engine rpm goes way up as soon as you stomp on the gas pedal. If your budget allows it, opt for the 2.4-liter engine in the SE and GT. Not only does this more desirable engine sound better, but it also makes more power at lower revs, so even with the CVT, it stays quieter on the highway. The GT’s sport-tuned suspension also makes it more capable during spirited driving on back roads. However, the bigger wheels and tires on the GT also generate more road noise, so you’ll have to decide whether its better handling is worth a less serene cabin environment.

John Kelly is co-ordinator and writer at Car Talk of Car From Japan. Holding a MA in Public Relations and Journalism, he has 6 working years for Sales & Marketing Department of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. Inc. John provides a unique look at Japanese cars through an American’s look, and fills his blog with everything from car restoration to history. His biggest hobbies are car and photography. Hence, when visit John’s articles, besides lots and lots of pages of information about car review and car comparison to scroll through, you also can see many interesting pictures of famous car brand from his own perspective.

Comments