Mitsubishi Lancer
| Mitsubishi Lancer | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Manufacturer | Mitsubishi Motors |
| Production | 1973–present |
| Assembly | Mizushima plant, Okazaki, Aichi, Japan |
| Predecessor | Mitsubishi Mirage (For North America) |
| Class | Subcompact (1973–1999) Compact (2000–present) |
The Mitsubishi Lancer is a compact car built by Mitsubishi Motors. It has been known as the Colt Lancer, Dodge/Plymouth Colt, Chrysler Valiant Lancer, Chrysler Lancer, Eagle Summit, Hindustan Lancer, Soueast Lioncel, Mitsubishi Carisma, and Mitsubishi Mirage in various countries at different times, and will be sold as the Galant Fortis in its home market from 2007. It's also been sold as Lancer Fortis in Taiwan with a different facelift compared to Galant Fortis from September 15, 2007.
Since its introduction in 1973 over six million Lancers have been sold.[1]
1973
| First generation | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Also called | Chrysler Valiant Lancer Dodge Colt |
| Production | 1973–1979 |
| Body style(s) | 2-door sedan 4-door sedan 5-door station wagon 3-door hatchback (Celeste) |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Engine(s) | 1.2 l I4 1.6 l I4 1.4 l I4 2.0 l I4 |
The Lancer (LA series in Australia, where it was called the Chrysler Valiant Lancer initially) was first launched in 1973 and proved to be particularly successful in rallies, a claim that it retains to this day. At the time of its launch, Mitsubishi had the Minica kei car and the compact Galant, so the Lancer served to fill the gap in the small to lower-medium segment of the growing Japanese market. Twelve models were launched, ranging from a basic 1.2 L sedan to a more powerful rally-derived 1600 GSR model.
There were three bodystyles, 2-door coupes, 4-door sedans, and a rarely seen 5-door station wagon.
Celeste
In 1975, the Lancer was complemented by a hatchback coupé called the Mitsubishi Lancer Celeste (also called the Mitsubishi Celeste or Colt Celeste in some markets; it was the Chrysler Lancer Coupé in Australia and the Plymouth Arrow in the United States), and sold with 1.4 L and 1.6 L options (a 2.0 L model was added later).
Facelift and exports
A facelifted Lancer followed soon after, called the LB series in Australia (and without the Valiant tag). It was this series that emerged in the United States as the Dodge Colt for the 1977 model year, taking over from a badge-engineered Mitsubishi Galant from the previous year. It was offered for one more model year before the Dodge Colt name was transferred to the front wheel drive Mitsubishi Mirage.
Second generation
| Second generation | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Production | 1978–1983 |
| Body style(s) | 4-door sedan |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Engine(s) | 1.8L SOHC Turbo I4 4G33 1.4L SOHC I4 |
| Transmission(s) | 4-speed manual |
In 1978, the Lancer EX (the EX tag was not used for all export markets) débuted. Stylistically, the boxy, angular look replaced the "Coke bottle" look of the previous LAs and LBs. Starting 1980, a turbocharged 1.8L model, the Lancer EX Turbo GSR was included in the series.
The only body style available was a four-door sedan.
Third/Fourth generation
| Fourth Generation | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Production | 1982–1987 |
| Body style(s) | 3-door hatchback 4-door sedan 5-door hatchback 5-door station wagon |
| Layout | Front engine, front-wheel drive / Four-wheel drive |
| Engine(s) | 1.6 l I4 1.8 l I4 diesel |
| Related | Mitsubishi Mirage Proton Saga Proton Iswara |
In 1982, a new model was launched called the Lancer Fiore also know as third version, based on the Mitsubishi Mirage. The Fiore was often sold as a Lancer in international markets, but also the Mirage Sedan and, with the five-door hatchback model, remained in production for a good part of the 1980s. In Australia, it would eventually be sold as the Mitsubishi Colt Sedan. Thus, Mitsubishi had two similarly sized models competing in the same market segment.
The following year, both Mirage and Lancer lines were renewed from the third generation. The Mirage four-door and Lancer sedan became the same car. Fuel injected and turbocharged models were an integral part of this range. A station wagon was added in 1985, and it spawned a raised, four wheel drive version. Often, the Mirage (or Colt) would be the name used on the three-door hatchback, and the Lancer name used on the remainder.
This model formed the basis of the original Proton sedan, the Saga, Malaysia's first car. Which still in production until today.
Fifth generation
| Fifth Generation | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Production | 1988–1992 |
| Successor | Mitsubishi Carisma (Europe) |
| Body style(s) | 3-door hatchback 4-door sedan 5-door hatchback |
| Layout | Front engine, front-wheel drive / Four-wheel drive |
| Wheelbase | 2455 mm (96.7 in) |
| Related | Mitsubishi Mirage Mitsubishi Chariot/Space Wagon/Expo Dodge/Plymouth Colt Eagle Summit Eagle Vista |
In 1988, a more aerodynamic-looking Lancer was launched, following the shape of the Galant. A five-door hatchback was added to the range. The Mirage and Lancer nomenclature continued. The station wagon continued on the old platform and shape, as did, in some markets, a five-door version of the Mirage. In Australia, all models were sold as the Mitsubishi Lancer. By that time, the Lancer name was shared with the Dodge Lancer sold in North America. The sedan was sold as the Mirage Aspire in Japan.
In some markets a 'van' model was produced, being the three-door hatchback (which had an upright profile) without rear side window (this triggered a reduced sales tax burden in the Dutch market).
Sixth generation
| Sixth Generation | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Production | 1991–1995 |
| Body style(s) | 2-door coupe (Mirage based) 4-door sedan 5-door station wagon |
| Layout | Front engine, front-wheel drive / Four-wheel drive (GSR) |
| Engine(s) | 1.3L SOHC I4 1.5L SOHC I4 1.5L DOHC 1.8L SOHC I4 1.6L DOHC MIVEC I4 1.8L DOHC Turbo I4 |
| Transmission(s) | 4-speed automatic 5-speed manual |
| Wheelbase | 2500 mm (98.4 in) Coupe: 2440 mm (96.1 in) |
| Related | Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Mitsubishi Carisma Volvo S40 Volvo V40 Mitsubishi Mirage Mitsubishi Chariot/Space Wagon/Expo Dodge/Plymouth Colt Eagle Summit Eagle Vista Proton Persona Proton Wira |
It was only in 1991 that there was greater differentiation between the Mirage and Lancer. Although both were on the same platform, the Lancer sedan received different sheetmetal from the Mirage four-door. The Mirage variant was sold in North America under the Eagle Summit name. Minivan models, such as the Mitsubishi Space Runner and Mitsubishi Chariot, were mechanically related. In 1993, the Lancer wagon, named the Libero in Japan, was launched. An electric version was also released named the Libero EV that ran on NiCd batterys[1]. A V6 variant was also introduced with only 1.6 L, making it the smallest mass-produced V6. The high-performance, turbocharged GSR version formed the basis of the contemporary Lancer Evolution (or 'Lancer Evo') from September 1993, using the drivetrain of the successful Galant VR-4 rally car.
The Mirage Asti Coupé in Japan was offered as the Lancer Coupé in many export markets.
The sixth generation Lancer was rebadged as the Proton Wira sedan and 5-door hatchback models in Malaysia in 1993 with 1.3, 1.5, 1.6 and 1.8L engine capacities. A short-lived 2.0L diesel model was also available. Currently, the car has stopped production as one of the longest running Proton models in Malaysia after Proton Saga, which is also based on a previous Lancer model. The Proton Wira was recently replaced by Proton's latest model, the Proton Persona.
Australia (1992–1996)
In Australia, this generation was commonly referred to as the CC series. It was sold as a 2-door coupe, as well as a 4-door sedan, wagon and 5-door hatchback (essentially carried over from the previous generation). The GL trim model was the last Lancer to use a carburetor engine. The rest of the range used an EFI engine. This generation was sold until 1996, when it was replaced by the popular CE series model.
Model and trim levels:
- GL - 2-door coupe, 4-door sedan and station wagon. Powered by a 1.5L engine (67 kW)
- GLXi - 2-door coupe, 4-door sedan and wagon. Powered by a 1.6L engine (4G92 SOHC - 86 kW)
- Executive - 4-door sedan and wagon. Powered by a 1.8L engine (4G93 SOHC - 86 kW)
- GSR - 4-door sedan. Powered by a turbocharged 1.8L engine (4G93t DOHC - 141 kW)
Philippines (1992-1996)
Described as "Lancer itlog"/Lancer egg (also known as Lancer hotdog type). such because the shape of their body and its rear signal light.
Model and trim levels
- EL - 4 door sedan. Powered by a 1.3L Cyclone Variable Venturi carbureted engine (4G13 SOHC) (59 kW)
- GLi - 4 door sedan. Powered by a 1.5L Cyclone ECI-MULTI engine (4G15 SOHC) (66 kW)
- GLXi - 4 door sedan. Powered by a 1.6L Cyclone ECI-MULTI engine (4G92 SOHC) (86 kW)
- EX - 4 door sedan. Same specifications as the EL, and released in 1996.
Although the next generation Lancer had become available in the local market, this particular model was released to cater demands for taxi use. The EX model was only available in white color, with a bare trim.
Seventh generation
| Seventh Generation | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Production | 1995–2000 |
| Body style(s) | 2-door coupe 4-door sedan 4-door station wagon |
| Layout | Front engine, front-wheel drive / Four-wheel drive (GSR) |
| Engine(s) | 1.5L SOHC I4 1.8L SOHC I4 1.8L DOHC Turbo I4 |
| Transmission(s) | 4-speed automatic 4-speed semi-auto 5-speed manual |
| Wheelbase | Sedan: 2500 mm (98.4 in) Coupe: 2415 mm (95.1 in) |
| Related | Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Mitsubishi Carisma Volvo S40 Volvo V40 Mitsubishi Mirage Mitsubishi Chariot/Space Wagon/Expo Dodge/Plymouth Colt Eagle Summit Soueast Lioncel |
In 1995, the Lancer was renewed for its seventh generation, building on the earlier model's format. Apart from the Evo models' continuation, it did not depart from the established Lancer formula. A sedan and wagon (Libero in Japan) were offered, with a related Mirage model. The coupé continued as the Mirage Asti in Japan, known as the Lancer Coupé elsewhere. The 1995 Lancer (Model from 1995-2002 in some countries) is more popularly known as the 1997 Lancer. A turbocharged GSR version continued to be sold until the end of the 1990s. This platform was also the basis for the Mirage, as it was known in North America and various other markets.
From 1996-2004, the Mitsubishi Carisma replaced the Mitsubishi Lancer in some markets.
It is of note, that the Lancer Evolution V was the only Lancer Evoultion to gain Mitsubishi the WRC constructors championship. However, driver Tommi Makinen was able to claim four WRC driver's championships for himself, in 1996-2000, driving Mitsubishi's Lancer Evolution IV, V & VI.
Australia (1996–2004)
In Australia, the seventh generation Lancer was sold from 1996-2004. It was designated as the CE series. Like the previous generation, it was available in a variety of body styles, which helped to cater for a more broad audience. The introduction of a sporty MR coupe helped to target this model directly towards a younger audience. The station wagon continued on as a CE model, even though it was essentially carried over from the previous generation. This model had an unusually long model run, becoming increasingly uncompetitive as the years went by and often heavily discounted by dealers. Towards the end of its model run, Mitsubishi introduced some limited edition models (based on the GLi) to remain competitive with its rivals, these editions featured extras such as sports interiors, alloys and bodykits off higher spec models. Generally, this generation sold well throughout its production run.
It should be noted that despite the introduction of the eighth generation Lancer Cedia in 2002, the CE series continued to be sold alongside it until mid-2004. The sedan was available in GLi trim, until it was finally discontinued in 2003. The coupe was facelifted and now only available in GLi and MR trims.
Due to its appearance, affordability, and the rise in status of the Lancer Evolution, this generation was quite popular with young car enthusiasts and the aftermarket modified Japanese car scene. Some popular modifications include exhaust systems, suspension, after market stereos and replica Evolution bodykits.
Model and trim levels:
Series I (96-98) and Series II (98-99)
- GLi - 2-door coupe and 4-door sedan. Powered by a 4 cylinder, 1.5L engine (4G15 SOHC - 69 kW)
- GLXi - 2-door coupe and 4-door sedan. Powered by a 4 cylinder, 1.8L engine (4G93 SOHC - 88 kW)
- MR - 2-door coupe. Powered by a 4 cylinder, 1.8L engine (4G93 SOHC - 86 kW)
Series III (99-03)
- GLi - 2-door coupe (1.5L or 1.8L) and 4-door sedan (4 cylinder, 1.8L)
- GLXi - 2-door coupe and 4-door sedan. Powered by a 4 cylinder, 1.8L engine
- MR - 2-door coupe. Powered by a 4 cylinder (6 cylinder, 99-00), 1.8L engine
Series IV (02-04) coupe update only
- GLi - Choice of 1.5L engine (discontinued in 2003) or 1.8L engine, 4 Cylinder
- MR - Powered by a 1.8L engine, 4 Cylinder
Philippines (1996–2002)
Described as "Lancer Pizza" such for their pizza-shaped rear lamps.
- EL - 4 door sedan with 1.3L carb engine (4G13)
- GL - 4 door sedan with 1.5L engine (4G15)
- GLXi - 4 door sedan with 1.6L SOHC engine (4G92)
- GLX - 1999-2002 model 4 door sedan with 1.5L carb engine
- GLS - 1999-2002 model 4 door sedan with 1.6L Fuel injected engine
- MX - 1999-2002 model 4 door sedan top of the line with 1.6L EFI SOHC engine w/Invecs transmission
- GSR - 2-door coupe (96-02) Powered by 1.6L 4G92 SOHC engine
Eighth generation
| Eighth Generation | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Production | 2000–2006 |
| Predecessor | Mitsubishi Carisma (Europe) Mitsubishi Mirage (USA) |
| Body style(s) | 4-door sedan 4-door station wagon |
| Layout | FF layout |
| Engine(s) | 4G13 1.3L SOHC 4G18 1.6L SOHC 4G93 1.8L DOHC I4 4G94 2.0L SOHC I4 4G63 2.0L DOHC 4G69 2.4L SOHC MIVEC I4 |
| Transmission(s) | 4-speed automatic 4-speed semi-auto 5-speed manual invecs III CVT |
| Wheelbase | 102.4 in |
| Length | 2002-03 Sedan: 177.6 in 2004-06 Sedan: 180.5 in Sportback: 181.3 in |
| Width | 2002-03: 66.7 in 2004-06: 66.8 in |
| Height | 2002-03 & 2004-05 ES: 54.1 in 2004-06: 54.9 in Sportback: 56.1 in |
The year 2000 saw the release of the eighth-generation Lancer Cedia in Japan (meaning - CEntury DIAmond); though in most
markets the seventh generation Lancer continued , built at Mitsubishi's Mizushima plant in Japan. The new model was available in
sedan and station wagon forms. The Mirage, apart from the export models, became a different car in Japan that was unrelated to
the Lancer. In Europe, the Lancer was not offered in some countries, being too close to the size of the Dutch-built Carisma, so the Evo VII model sold there bore the Carisma name. This is the first generation in
many years where the Lancer nameplate is universally used.
In North America, the Lancer Cedia was introduced in 2002 as a direct replacement for the Mirage. It was powered by a 2.0L 4G94 engine.
In Australia, the eighth generation Lancer was introduced as the CG series in July 2002 with the 2.0L 4G94 engine. It was introduced as a replacement for the seventh generation sedan, and was sold alongside the popular seventh generation coupe.
Mid Generation Facelift (2003-07)
In 2003 (for the 04 model year), a heavily restyled Lancer surfaced with a front facia that brought it into line with the Mitsubishi corporate look, as well as a restyled rear, to further differentiate itself from the Lancer Evolution and for a more modern appearance.
North America
In North America, additional minor styling changes also occurred in 2004 and 2005 for the 05 and 06 model years respectively. For the 2005 model year, the grille was changed to include more fins to reflect a closer similarity to the North American Galant. For the 2006 model year, the facia was changed again from a bridged facia to one with an open vent after Mitsubishi received complaints from current owners regarding its similarity in appearance to General Motors Division Pontiac's corporate look, and to bring the appearance closer to its bigger brother, the Evolution.
In addition to the facelift, North America received two additional models to the Lancer line in 2004 - Sportback and Ralliart. Both these models had high levels of equipment, based on the Australian Lancer VR-X. The main difference being that these cars came equipped with Mitsubishi's 4G69 engine (rated at 160 hp/162 ft·lbf for the Sportback, and 162 hp/162 ft·lbf for the Ralliart), included a new, stiffer suspension package that improved handling and lowered the cars stance by 1 centimeter, 16" alloy wheels, front bucket seats borrowed from Japan's Mitsubishi Evolution GT-A, Fog Lamps, and a new aerodynamic ground package. The Ralliart also came equipped with a cosmetic rear deck spoiler, and clear rear tail lights. The Sportback was equipped with a 4-speed INVECS-II automatic transmission, with no option for a manual transmission, while the Ralliart came with a 5-speed manual transmission with an option for the 4-speed automatic. The Sportback was also available in the lower spec LS trim, with the standard 2.0L engine.
Due to Mitsubishi's deteriorating financial situation and slow sales, the Lancer Sportback wagon was cancelled in the United States one year after its release. but the Mitsubishi Lancer wagon was sold in Canada, Japan, Europe, Australia and New Zealand until its demise in 2006.
Australia
The 2003 facelift introduced a heavily updated VR-X, which included new 16" alloys, stiffer suspension, body styling kit, and gear shifter borrowed from the Lancer Evolution. In 2004, the new Cedia wagon was introduced as a direct replacement for its ageing predecessor).
In August 2005, all Lancers were upgraded to the 2.4L 4G69 engine, producing 115 kW (154 hp) and 220 Nm of torque. The upgraded engine also saw a change in trim levels and upgraded equipment - The ES and LS models now featured a more upmarket looking black interior, while the VR-X gained a new black grille to closer resemble the Lancer Evolution IX. The equipment levels of all models were also upgraded, with the LS and VR-X gaining climate control, and a premium audio system sourced from the luxury Mitsubishi Verada. The Exceed model was discontinued, and all updated models now used JDM sized rear bumpers instead of the larger USDM sized versions. Additionally, the wagon also saw these changes; and as of 2007, continues to be sold alongside the sedan.
The ES and LS models were given a minor facelift for the 2007 model year; this time gaining the same front grille as the US models, and putting it into line with the current corporate look - similar to that of the Colt and the locally built 380. Prior to the introduction of the all-new ninth generation Lancer, a limited edtion ES model dubbed 'Velocity' went on sale. This package included VR-X grill, rear spoiler, leather/alcantara bolsted seats, sports pedals, 15" OZ alloy wheels and chrome exhaust tip - all for the same price as the previous standard ES.
Other markets
In Japan, the Lancer Cedia was offerred with many different trim levels and engines, including options which were never seen in export markets. It was also one of the first models to use the INVECS-III CVT transmission. There was also a Ralliart version of the sportswagon which was powered by a turbocharged 1.8L GDI engine. As of 2007, the eighth generation Lancer sedan is still being sold alongside the new ninth generation, which is known in the home market as the Galant Fortis.
In Pakistan, this variant was launched in 2005 with cosmetic changes from the front and the back. Thai production was switched to the new model, and in all markets except for India the seventh-generation model was no longer marketed, four years after the Cedia's introduction.
India received the new Lancer in 2006, known locally as the Mitsubishi Cedia to distinguish it from this version that is still assembled and sold as the Lancer because of its popularity with taxi companies and fleet owners.
In some European markets, the Lancer began to take the place of the Carisma in 2004. It is powered by a 1.3-litre SOHC 4G13, 1.6-litre SOHC 4G18 engine and a 2.0-litre DOHC 4G63 (all 4-cylinder).
In Mexico, the Lancer was available in DE, ES, LS and GS trims with a 2.0-litre DOHC 4G63 engine. There were no estate versions: only the four-door saloon.
Ninth generation
| Ninth Generation | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Also called | Galant Fortis (Japan), Lancer Fortis (Taiwan) |
| Production | 2007- |
| Body style(s) | 4-door sedan (GS41) |
| Layout | FF layout |
| Platform | Mitsubishi GS platform |
| Engine(s) | 4B11 2.0L DOHC MIVEC I4, 4B10 1.8L DOHC MIVEC I4, 4A91 1.5L DOHC MIVEC I4, VW 2.0L TDI |
| Transmission(s) | 5-speed manual (F5MBB) CVT automatic (F1CJA) |
| Wheelbase | 2635 mm (103.7 in) |
| Length | 4570 mm (180 in) |
| Width | 1760 mm (69.3 in) |
| Height | 1490 mm (58.7 in) |
| Curb weight | 1325 (Manual DE) - 1410 (CVT GTS) |
| Fuel capacity | 59l |
In 2005, Mitsubishi revealed the Concept-X model car at the Tokyo Motor Show and its Concept-Sportback model at the Frankfurt motor show. The new Lancer is based on these two concepts. The new Lancer was officially revealed in January 2007 at the Detroit Motor Show and went on sale in North American markets on March 2007. It will be named Galant Fortis (Latin for strong, steadfast and courageous) for the Japan domestic market.[2]
For the North American market, the new Lancer is available initially in DE, ES and GTS trim levels. All three are powered by a GEMA based 4B11, 2.0 liter DOHC engine outputting 153 hp (except for California models which have been detuned to 147 hp to meet regulations). Transmission options include a brand new CVT, sourced from Jatco (code: F1CJA), along side a regular 5-speed manual sourced from Aisin AI (code: F5MBB). GTS models will be getting a 6-speed (fixed gears in sport mode), paddle shift version of the CVT.
The Lancer is set for an October 2007 release in Australia. It will come in ES, VR and VR-X trim levels. Active stability control and traction control will be standard on all models. Standard on the ES will be dual front airbags and a driver knee airbag. The VR and VR-X will get side and curtain airbags also. It will have a 2 litre 113kw engine and be equipped with a 5-speed manual with the CVT as $AUD2300 option. It is being slated as the safest and greenest new car on the market. A Ralliart model will also follow, to be rivalled against Subaru's Impreza WRX. A Lancer Evolution will also make the line up. Mitsubishi Australia has high hopes for this model adding new interest and energy into the brand, which has suffered image problems and lower-than-expected sales in recent years. This will join Mitsubishi's Australian line-up along with the Colt, Outlander, Pajero, Grandis, Triton, Express Van and the locally made, highly regarded, but low selling 380. The ES will be priced from a very competitive $AUD20,990.
The new Lancer is set for release in September 15, 2007 in Taiwan and has been named Lancer Fortis. It's powered by a 4B11, 2.0 litre DOHC engine outputting 157 hp and the transmission is a 6-speed (fixed gears in sport mode) version of the CVT. However, unlike other Lancer models in USA and Japan, Mitsubishi has changed the facelift to make it look like a family car.
New Lancer features Mitsubishi's next-generation RISE safety body.
External links
- Worldwide launch site
- Mitsubishi Lancer official history from archive.org (archived Nov 22, 2004)
- Lancer project
- Mitsubishi Lancer Global website
- Melbourne's The Age reveals the next generation Mitsubishi Lancer
- Mitsubishi Lancer Fortis official site in Taiwan
This entry is from Wikipedia, the leading user-contributed encyclopedia. It may not have been reviewed by professional editors (see full disclaimer)
