Mitsubishi Lancer Saloon (2008 - 2010) 2.0 DI-D GS4 4d (2008/58) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I do about 700 miles per week for work. Does that mean that you have to settle for the usual spate of Focus/Vectra/Mondeo same-old-same vanilla cars? Well, if you drive simply to get from A to B then they will probably do the trick. However, what happens if you are into driving for enjoyment aswell as business? You want something that stands out from the crowd (In a sensible way of course), something that handles and accelerates sharply but entertainingly in the power-bands -you- want to enjoy. Hence, Mitsubishi Lancer. Its not for: 1) Old men. (Thats why Saabs were invented.) 2) Old women. (Thats why Kias are around.) 3) Old or young Chavs. (Will be too expensive for them.) 4) People who dont particularly enjoy driving for the pleasure of it.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They love it. Since there are very few Lancers on the road, no one has the chance to see one. Usually new cars generate positive comments out of new viewers, and usually there are some slightly negative ones too, "Nice paintwork, pity about the...." or "I like the shape, shame that they didnt....". However with the Lancer people were simply impressed. It is aggressive enough to appeal to the younger wide-eyed lads, and almost sensible enough to tempt the older man.

Would you buy this car again and why?

I would buy it again. Sure its not as comfortable and smooth as a Focus, but, if I wanted such enveloping comfort I would buy an expensive sofa. The Lancer is rough around the edges, but those edges have been planned to be rough. Typical owners of Foci/Vectras/Mondeos probably wont be too tempted, past the nice bodywork. However, thats great, it wont become part of the 'grey-masses' cars.

What are you likely to buy next?

Mitsubishi are bringing out their own diesel engine sometime in early 2011. I may be tempted depending on the spec of the car.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£19,000

When did you buy the car?

October 2008

Did you get a good deal and why?

Excellent. Ordered and driving within 7 days. Delivered to an address by Mitsubishi. Good service. Friendly staff.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Excellent, individual, looks. Not many of them on the road. Very impressive road handling capability. Road presence.

What was the dealer like?

Very good to deal with.

What's it like to drive?

Firm ride, mainly because of lowered suspension and 18" rims. Excellent control while on the roads, grips like anything. There have been grumblings about the engine (from Parkers too), however, due to the old-school nature of the VW oil-burner engine it kicks out alot of power in the bands that you need it. Latest gen common-rail may let you smoothly accelerate to 120Mph, but we all know that there is more fun between the 20 - 70 mark. This is where the unrefined bursts from the Lancers diesel engine matter. Mr Mondeo/Vectra/Focus can keep their sleep inducing comforts. While I drive I want to enjoy myself, not feel like im riding a pampered-sofa of a car.

What's it like to park?

Not too bad considering the size of car. Rear view could be better, but that would sacrifice the spoiler and rear style.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Not yet.

What's most practical about your car?

Sporty yet comfortable. Great MPG readings for the GS4 diesel.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Full touch-screen Navigation/Music system built into the dash.