Mitsubishi Lancer 1.8 GS2 Auto 5dr Car Review - April 2012

The handling of the Lancer is very good with steering that is quick to respond to the wheel and has a reasonable amount of feedback, while there is plenty of grip while cornering. It is fair to say that the suspension does deliver quite a firm ride but this isn't overly uncomfortable, and the benefit is that the amount of body roll while cornering is kept to a minimum. The driving position is fine and offers a decent range of adjustment to the steering wheel and driving seat, but while the forward visibility is fine, rear visibility does suffer with the racing spoiler getting in the way.

Engine performance from the 1.8 litre engine does suffer when used in accordance with the automatic gearbox, with acceleration from 0-62mph achieved in 11.7 seconds. The top speed of 114mph is also fine for use on the motorway, and the cabin for the Lancer has been nicely isolated so that noise is kept to a minimum.

The Lancer is a very attractive car which has a very distinctive front end that does hint at the racing pedigree, with the narrow grille and headlight clusters being very nice. The lines of the car are very good with a tidy back end, but the large racing spoiler doesn't fit with the family practicality of the car, and certainly can't be considered a subtle design feature. Inside the car the cabin is classy and feels like it is built to last, but the hard plastic trim is a little disappointing.

The level of equipment included with this model is really rather good considering that it is one of the cheapest in the range. Alloy wheels help to improve the look of the car, while air conditioning helps to ensure the car remains at a comfortable temperature even in hot weather. The CD stereo works well, and there are also electric windows in the front and back of the car.

There is no doubt that the Lancer is a very practical car which can accommodate four adults in comfort with a good level of legroom and headroom in the back, although it can take five adults at a squeeze. The boot is also of a reasonable size, which adds to the practicality of the car. Mitsubishi has an excellent reputation for reliability, and this version of the Lancer should benefit from this knowledge.

The Lancer is also a very safe car to drive, having a number of airbags to look after the driver and passengers should the car be involved in an accident. There are also a number of driving aids that help the car to remain under control, and the Lancer has achieved five stars in the Euro NCAP safety test.

At a list price of £16,879, this version of the Mitsubishi Lancer is very keenly priced, particularly when you consider that it comes with an automatic gearbox and is also an attractive saloon. This price puts it below some very good competition such as the Volkswagen Golf.

Running costs delivered by the 1.8 litre engine aren't particularly impressive, with the engine delivering an average 35.0mpg. The low insurance group does mean that premiums should be affordable, and the combination of desirability and reliability should mean that the Lancer holds its value well too. The Lancer is supplied with a three year unlimited mileage warranty.