If you’re looking for a compact that delivers a sporty driving experience, the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer just might be the right car for you. With a variety of models to choose from, including both a hatchback and high-performance option, there is a model available for nearly every compact driver’s needs.
Key Features
With three available engines, choice of automatic or manual transmission and an all-wheel drive version, the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer offers something for nearly every buyer. With available upgrades that include everything from air conditioning to an HDD navigation and a Rockford-Fosgate sound system, there is a model available that combines sporty performance with the amenities you want in a vehicle.
Changes for 2012
The 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer saw a few introductions for this model year, including the SE trim that includes all-wheel drive, heated mirrors and seats and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) as standard and a new 2.4-liter GT model engine. Other changes include dropping the automatic transmission from the Sportback model and removing the Ralliart edition.
What We Like
The sporty looks and cabins in the higher-end models are a welcome upgrade, and the hatchback’s 46.6 cubic feet of potential cargo space with the seats folded provides plenty of room for luggage. The overall sharp handling and sleek design also makes this a compact worth considering.
What Concerns Us
The 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer doesn’t offer much with the base model, which doesn’t include the standard features seen in most vehicles, such as air conditioning and a folding rear seat. The large amount of cheap, hard plastics in the seating areas, along with a lack of telescoping steering wheel and a short seat may leave many drivers uncomfortable as well.
Available Models
There are a few models to choose from with the 2012 Lancer, including the DE and ES trims that offer a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that gives 148 horsepower and 146 ft-lb of torque with city/highway fuel economies of 26/34 mpg (automatic), 25/34 mpg (manual) and 24/32 mpg (Sportback).
With the GT, GTS and SE trims drivers receive a 2.4-liter engine with 168 horsepower and 167 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy city/highway is 23/30 (automatic), 22/31 (manual) and 22/29 (Sportback).
The Ralliart delivers a turbocharged 2.0-liter with 237 horsepower, 253 ln-ft of torque and city/highway mileage of 18/25 mpg. Finally, the 2.0 turbocharged Evolution engine produces 291 horsepower, 300 lb-ft of torque and city/highway fuel economy of 17/22 mpg (automatic) and 17/23 mpg (manual).
Major Recalls
There are no major recalls listed for the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Common Issues
The most commonly reported issues with this vehicle are due to engine issues causing acceleration.
