Mitsubishi Lancer Model Years and History

The Mitsubishi Lancer returns for 2017 with a couple of updates and revisions to improve the model for this year. A new display type audio system is standard across the entire range, nicely complementing the rearview camera, which also comes standard on all Lancers for 2017. New 16-inch alloy wheels are available on ES trimmed Lancers while SE and SEL trims get a new 18-inch wheel design as standard. Lastly, a Sun and Sound package debuts this year, offering a power glass sunroof, SiriusXM radio and a 710-watt, 9 speaker Rockford-Fosgate sound system with a 10-inch subwoofer.

The Ralliart model has been discontinued. Alloy wheels are now standard across the board, as are fog lamps and automatic climate control.

A host of new features are available across the Lancer lineup. All models get heated side mirrors with turn signal indicators. SE and SE models get increased hands-free functionality, along with a new wheel design while the Ralliart and Evolution GSR models gets a 9-speaker stereo and HID headlamps.

Last year's DE trim does not return for 2014. The GT and better Lancers get a new touch-screen stereo and SIRIUS satellite radio.

Most of the Changes for 2013 pertain to the all-wheel-drive SE model. All-wheel-drive models are often sold to customers with an active lifestyle, so Lancer SE models are now designed to accommodate Thule cargo racks directly with a simple plug in design. Also new on the SE are 16-inch alloy wheels in an attractive five spoke design. 2013 SE Lancers may now be equipped with the Premium Option Package, which includes a Rockford Fosgate premium audio system, SiriusXM satellite radio, a 6-CD changer, a leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and a few other upgraded interior trim parts.

After a year-long hiatus, the Lancer Evolution returns for 2012. The Lancer SE all-wheel drive returns for 2012. It comes with 18-inch wheels, a rear spoiler, fog lamps, Bluetooth, leather-wrapped steering wheel. The Ralliart all-wheel drive now offers optional navigation, as does the GT model and the Sportback ES offers optional 16-inch alloy wheels and a deluxe package that includes an upgraded 6-speaker stereo with a USB port, FAST-key entry system, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, SIRIUS and a color LCD dash indicator display. The manual transmission is no longer available on the Sportback models and the TC-SST Sportback Ralliart model is not offered for 2012.

For 2011 the Mitsubishi lineup has been shaken up a bit. For starters the continuously variable transmission (CVT) has been dropped from the Lancer DE trim. In the Lancer Sportback, a base ES model has been added to the lineup, available with both a manual or CVT transmission. All Lancer Ralliart trims now include Mitsubishi's Twin Clutch-Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST) and that car's turbocharged engine now boasts more power, up to 242 hp and 258 pound-feet of torque. Ralliart models will shed 90 pounds and will ride on standard 18-inch wheels. Mitsubishi claims 0 to 60 mph time improves from 5.9 seconds to 5.4 seconds. Mitsubishi's top-of-the-line Lancer, the Evolution, will take a hiatus for 2011, as it did in 2009, with delivery expected again for 2012.

Though the design and features of the Lancer remain mostly unchanged for 2010, there are two big additions to the overall lineup. First, the rally-ready Evolution is back after a 1-year hiatus in two trim levels. Second, the much-anticipated Sportback body style has reached U.S. shores in GTS and Ralliart editions.

The Mitsubishi Lancer, fresh of off last year's complete redesign, receives a new available 2.4L engine for 2009, along with a new ES-Sport trim that adds fog lights, a large rear spoiler, and front and side air dams. A Ralliart model, which replaces 2008's Lancer Evolution GSR, is expected to be released later in the model year.

The Mitsubishi Lancer has been completely redesigned for 2008 with a new look, new powertrains, and a more distinctive, refined, and sporty appearance.