Pros: Availability of all-wheel drive; sporty driving dynamics of Ralliart model
Cons: Aged design; overall refinement doesn’t match most class competitors; high cabin noise levels; not all drivers can find a comfortable seating position
2015 Lancer
CG Says: Lancer sees a few minor trim changes for 2015, such as standard heated side mirrors with turn-signal indicators, standard fog lights, and a couple of new optional-equipment packages. Lancer was last redesigned for model-year 2008, and today it’s simply too old to battle effectively in this fiercely competitive class. Lancer handles well and offers a fair amount of features for a compact car. However, powertrains are an issue in terms of performance (at least with the normally aspirated 2.0), fuel economy, and, most notably, noise. We applaud the SE for offering all-wheel drive and other standard cold-weather niceties at a price that doesn’t break the bank. The sporty Ralliart appeals for its engaging turbocharged driving experience, but we don’t think it’s worth the large price premium over the SE.
2015 Lancer
| Class | Compact Car |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door sedan |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Mitsubishi |
| Nation of Manufacture | Japan |
| Base Prices | ES: $17,395 GT: $20,595 SE: $20,995 Ralliart: $29,495 |
| Base Engine 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 148 |
| Std. Transmission 5-speed manual |
| Avail. Transmission CVT |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 25-26 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 34 |
| Optional Engine 2.4-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 168 |
| Std. Transmission 5-speed manual |
| Avail. Transmission CVT |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 22-23 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 30-31 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 237 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automated manual |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 18 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 25 |
