Mitsubishi is a top-tier automobile brand credited for introducing the industry with advanced and innovative features. The brand is credited for shifting the automotive market dynamics by unveiling technologically advanced and durable lineups. Mitsubishi Lancer was one of these models. The legendary car series was launched in the 1970s and was way ahead of its time. Following the success, the Lancer became a trademark vehicle of Mitsubishi across the globe.
Let’s dissect through Mitsubishi Lancer history, its different generations and models to know more about this legendary car series.s
All Mitsubishi Lancer Models
Apart from their durability, vehicles unveiled by Mistubishi are also credited for their driveability and performance-oriented features. This is why a number of Mitsubishi models are counted among most popular used Japanese cars in the UAE.
First Generation (1973 to 1984)
The first generation of Mitsubishi Lancer debuted in 1973. The car was released in different body types, including 3-door hatchback, 5-door estate, 2-door and 4-door sedan. It featured rounded headlights sandwiched between a radiator grille with smaller openings. Whereas the backlights were rectangular and steel bumpers were installed at the front and rear ends.
A wide range of engines was offered in this generation, including a 1.2-litre inline and a 2-litre inline turbo petrol engine.
Second Generation (1984 to 1988)
The second-generation Lancer was completely different from its predecessors. The rounded headlights were replaced with rectangular ones. The older, smaller opening radiator grille was replaced with straight stripes. The Mitsubishi logo that was previously present on the hood was now embedded in the centre of the radiator grille.
To power this car, 1.2-litre and 1.4-litre petrol engines were offered. Along with this, optional manual and automatic transmission systems were available.
Third Generation (1988 to 1993)
The third generation was nothing similar to that of Mitsubishi Lancer’s old models. The car received a major facelift and the front fascia was completely redesigned. The radiator grille was narrow with the Mitsubishi logo present in between. The headlights were smaller and wider with indicators present at the end. The lights were paired with black trim front and rear bumpers.
For a comfortable interior, a split-folding bench and adjustable steering wheel were present. Both features were unique in this car segment at that time. A 1.3, 1.5 and 1.8-litre petrol and diesel engines were offered in this generation. These engines were paired with a 4-speed manual transmission system.
In 1992, Mitsubishi launched the Lancer Evolution which was a sportier trim of the Lancer. The trim was well received by the customers and was an instant hit. Lancer Evolution continues to win a number of drag and rally races across the globe.
Fourth Generation (1994 to 1996)
The fourth generation Laner received a facelift with redesigned headlights and a radiator grille. The interior was also facelifted and cloth upholstery was installed. Moreover, power windows, an advanced locking system and an air conditioning system were also present. The instrument panel inside Laner features a speedometer, tachometer, and temperature gauges.
Under the hood, 1.3-litre and 1.8-litre petrol engines were present. These engines were accompanied by a 5-speed manual transmission system.
Fifth Generation (1996 to 2000)
The fifth generation of Lancer hit the market with a redesigned radiator grille. Unlike other Lancer models, the radiator grille was divided into two segments and the headlights were more narrowed. To increase the comfort of passengers, the latest and advanced suspension systems were installed.
A wide range of engines including 1.3 and 1.5-litre petrol engines was offered in this generation. Whereas, optional manual and automatic transmission systems were also present.
During this generation, the Lancer Evolution was also launched. This time, Mitsubishi upgraded the Evolution by installing a turbocharger, a differential system and a new Active Yaw Control system.
Sixth Generation (2000 to 2003)
Lancer and Lancer Evolution both were released in this generation. The front fascia was facelifted with redesigned head and tail lights. The previous narrow headlights were replaced with a larger one and the tail lights were triangular. The hood was slightly paved making its way towards the windscreen.
Any notable changes were not observed in the interior. The power windows, power locks and air conditioning system were similar to that of its predecessors. However, an advanced ABS system was installed in this generation.
The engine range includes 1.5, 1.6 and 1.8-litre petrol engines paired with CVT and AWD drivetrain systems.
Seventh Generation (2003 to 2007)
This generation was unveiled with the segmented grille. However, the segment was broader and the logo was adjusted for that segment. The signature rectangular headlights were replaced with triangular ones. The lower front bumper has additional air vents to increase the cooling system efficiency of the car.
The dashboard was decorated with black, grey and silver trims and rounded air vents. The infotainment system was installed above the HVAC control unit. Since there were no controls present on the steering wheel, all the important controls were installed in the HVAC control system.
The 5-speed manual transmission system was standard in all the models. However, some models were also offered with a 4-speed automatic transmission or CVT system. This time 2.0 and 2.4-litre petrol engines were also present.
Eighth Generation (2007 to 2015)
The last generation of Mitsubishi Lancer was unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show. The generation is available in two different body types, a sedan and a hatchback. The front fascia was provided a fresh look with a redesigned radiator grille and headlights.
This generation of Lancer was known for its sophisticated interior with only two clusters. An information system equipped with Bluetooth connectivity and an advanced navigation system was installed in the dashboard. To ensure comfort, firm and slim font seats were installed in the car. Whereas, under the hood, a wide range of engines, including 1.5 and 1.8-litre petrol engines, were available with a 2.0-litre diesel engine.
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution’s history ended when the car was discontinued by the company in 2015. After two years in 2017, Mitsubishi also discounted its Lancer model series. Despite being discounted, Lancer is still popular among car enthusiasts. If you are also one of them, browse through these used Mitsubishi Lancers for sale in the UAE and drive your own Lancer.
Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for more information on all Lancer models.
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