2013 Mitsubishi Lancer

best car 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer

The 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer ranks 38 out of 43 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 62 published reviews and test drives of the Mitsubishi Lancer, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

While the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer’s higher trims impress reviewers with powerful engines and outstanding handling, test drivers are disappointed with the cheap interior materials, low fuel economy ratings and meager cargo space that plague all Lancer models.

The 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer is available as a sedan and a hatchback with four engines and three transmissions, depending on the trim you choose. Higher trims have standard all-wheel drive, which is a feature few models in this class offer. Even though shoppers have a lot of freedom in selecting their powertrain and body style, test drivers say that only upper Lancer trims have good performance. They enjoy the GT, Ralliart and Evolution models, which have sharp steering and strong brakes, but most are disappointed with the Lancer’s gas mileage. Fuel economy ratings for the Lancer Evolution are as low as 17/22 mpg city/highway, according to the EPA. The base model averages 26/34 mpg. Though its gas mileage is better, few reviewers recommend the base engine because it is underpowered. Lower 2013 Lancer trims lag behind competitors with sluggish performance and poor fuel economy, but all models have poor predicted reliability for the affordable small car class.

Reviewers say the five-seat 2013 Lancer has spacious front and rear seats, but they mention that the front seats don’t have enough cushioning and that rear visibility is poor. Test drivers add that the cabin’s design is boring and that its materials are very cheap. The Lancer also lacks standard features such as air conditioning, a USB port and Bluetooth that are standard on many of its rivals. Reviewers say that cargo space in both the sedan and hatchback models is only decent for the class, though they do like that the hatchback’s opening is large, which makes loading items easier.