Mitsubishi Lancer 1.8 GS4 CVT 5dr Car Review - February 2012

REVIEW
List Price: £19,399
Tax Band: J
Insurance Group: N/A
MPG: 34.0
CO2: 198
0-62 Mph: 12.0 secs
BHP: 141 BHP
Range: 441 miles
CarSite Verdict:  2.75/5
The Lancer 1.8 GS4 CVT is a good car which does a number of things very well. However, it is outclassed in this competitive market segment and, besides the low price, there is very little reason to consider buying one.

PROS:  You get a lot of car for your money. The Lancer 1.8 GS4 CVT is spacious, well equipped and affordable.

CONS:  The Lancer’s performance is disappointing and it lacks refinement. Boot space is limited, depreciation is steep and the driving experience fails to match its closest rivals.

Behind the Wheel

The 1.8-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine develops 141bhp at 6,000 rpm, with 131 lb-ft of torque at 4250 rpm. 0-62 mph takes 12.0 seconds and the top speed is 114mph.

The Lancer 1.8 GS4 CVT's rid is firm and uncomfortable and the car rolls through the corners. Refinement is an issue with road noise present even at low speeds. The petrol engine booms at high revs, and the CVT automatic gearbox causes it to rev hard. The diesel engine rattles noisily sending vibrations through the main controls. Wind noise is well subdued though.

Looks & Equipment

The car’s exterior is more stylish and sporty than some of its rivals. The materials in the cabin feel durable enough but look cheap and nasty. The GS4 comes with alloy wheels, air-conditioning, climate control, cruise control, electric mirrors and electric front windows as standard. The car also comes with heated front seats, leather upholstery, and a stereo with a built-in hard drive. Metallic paint is available at an additional cost.

The dash is simple, clear and well-laid out. The driver’s seat adjusts in two directions but not everyone will be able to get comfortable as the steering wheel does not adjust for reach.

Practicality, Safety & Reliability

Driver, passenger, front-side airbags and a driver's knee airbag all come as standard, along with curtain airbags and stability and traction control. All models come with an alarm, immobiliser and deadlocks to deter thieves.

The Lancer is longer than most of its rivals and this means there is plenty of legroom in the cabin although headroom and boot space could be improved. The boot offers 344 litres of space when the seats are in place, increasing to a more generious 1,349 litres when the rear seats are folded down.

Value for Money

The Lancer is one of the cheapest cars in its class, priced at £19,399 and offers good value for the equipment given.

Fuel consumption is pretty poor with the Lancer 1.8 GS4 CVT only managing 34mpg on the combined cycle. The car comes with a three year warranty that includes unlimited mileage but road tax comes under one of the highest tax bands, J, thanks to CO2 emissions of 198g/km. Insurance premiums, however, should be pretty reasonable under group 20.

Mitsubishi Lancer 1.8 GS4 CVT 5dr Car Review - by 
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