Flash Drive

2014 Mitsubishi Lancer

c9460-mitsubishilancersportbackModel Tested: 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SE AWD 

Engine: 2.4-liter I-4, 168 horsepower 167 lb-ft torque 

Transmission: CVT automatic, all-wheel-drive 

EPA Ratings: 22/City—29/Highway—25/Combined 

Base Price: $20,695 

As Tested: $22,940 

Performance:

More power than the base model, but short of the mighty Evo

Fine AWD system, but again not the trick Lancer Evo system

Console switch for 2WD, 4WD, and locking differential

Very good highway economy—we averaged almost 33 mpg

Crisp steering and handling 

Comfort:

Decent size sunroof

Supportive, heated cloth seats

Manual seat adjustments

Thick leather steering wheel

Good auxiliary audio controls

Lots of front legroom

Ample room for tall rear seat passengers

Utility:

Large glovebox

Small console bin

Big trunk, flat floor

High lift-over

Step between trunk floor and folded rear seats 

WOW Factors:

All-wheel-drive at a bargain price

Handsome styling

Heavy-duty sound system with huge trunk-mounted speaker 

Whines:

Cheap trunk carpeting

Trunk sounds tinny when shut

Small door bins 

Bottom Line:

The 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SE AWD is a performance bargain. It’s a fun to drive, sporty AWD sedan at an economy car price. It posts great highway fuel numbers and has a spacious interior. There are material quality compromises, but some corners had to be cut to make the performance/price point.