Used 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Sedan Review & Ratings

In a market flooded with compact cars, it can be tough to stand out. Rather than try to make a difference with shiny bells and whistles, the Mitsubishi Lancer sedan has made a name for itself in the compact car market with its clean lines and simple styling. This attractive sedan has come to value consistency over flash, making it a perennially smart choice for a smaller sedan.

The Mitsubishi Lancer sedan is instantly recognizable by its fish face front end. Mitsubishi originally designed the grinning grill and bumper to look like a shark's face, but the effect is more that of a fish than a shark. It is an attractive look, regardless. The oversized grille might remind you of the classic Audi front end, but the lines on the body that flow from the uniformly colored front bumper keep the gaping mouth from being overpowering. The angled headlamps add to the effect, giving the whole car an overall exotic look.

The rear of the car looks just as fantastic and unique as the front end, with angular tail lights to mirror the headlights. The tail light fixtures turn the corner of the back of the car and wrap around, making a streamlined and modern appearance. The back of the car is low profile, shorter than the average sedan, giving it a sportier look. Mitsubishi made a name for itself by producing sporty, affordable choices, and the Mitsubishi Lancer sedan lives up to that legacy.

The DE and ES trims of the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Sedan are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 148 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. It is paired up with a standard five-speed standard transmission, but a CVT is optional. The Lancer SE and GT get a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that boosts power to 168 horsepower and 167 pound-feet of torque. Lastly, if you want the ultimate performing Lancer, you will opt for the Ralliart. This trim boasts a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine that is motivated by 237 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque. Average fuel economy across the line is 29 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway.

When tested by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety, the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Sedan scored "Good" on frontal-offset, side-impact and roof-strength crash tests. It was also found that it can come to a complete stop from 60 mph in an impressive 115 feet.