The Good
The 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer offers a sporty design that appeals to emotional buyers, while its affordability and decent fuel economy provide practical value. The Lancer's performance, especially in higher trims like the GT and Ralliart, offers engaging handling. Known for decent reliability, it provides a cost-effective entry into the compact car segment.
The Bad
Weaknesses of the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer include a somewhat dated interior with hard plastics and limited rear seat space. The base engine can feel underpowered. Watch out for potential CVT transmission issues in some models. Rust can also be a concern in areas with harsh winters. Overall refinement isn't as high as some competitors.
2012 Mitsubishi Lancer: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.0L Inline-4 (DE, ES, SE): 148 horsepower, 145 lb-ft of torque
- 2.4L Inline-4 (GT): 168 horsepower, 167 lb-ft of torque
- 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (Ralliart): 237 horsepower, 253 lb-ft of torque
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 2.0L: 25 mpg city / 34 mpg highway (manual), 24 mpg city / 33 mpg highway (CVT)
- 2.4L: 23 mpg city / 30 mpg highway (manual), 22 mpg city / 31 mpg highway (CVT)
- 2.0L Turbo (Ralliart): 18 mpg city / 25 mpg highway (TC-SST)
- 0-60 Times (Estimated):
- 2.0L: 9.0-10.0 seconds
- 2.4L: 8.0-9.0 seconds
- 2.0L Turbo (Ralliart): 6.0-6.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- DE: Basic features including power windows, locks, and mirrors; keyless entry; CD player.
- ES: Adds air conditioning, cruise control, and upgraded interior trim.
- SE: (Available later in the year) Adds all-wheel control, heated front seats, and alloy wheels.
- GT: Adds sport-tuned suspension, alloy wheels, fog lights, rear spoiler, sport seats, and upgraded audio system.
- Ralliart: Features a turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive, a twin-clutch automated manual transmission (TC-SST), sport suspension, and performance tires.
2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2012 |
| Make | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Lancer |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | OKAZAKI |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.0L L4 |
| Engine Size | 2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Have?
How long will the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2012 Lancer received mixed crash-test ratings. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gave it an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) gave it good ratings in most categories, but marginal in the small overlap front crash test (conducted in later years, not initially).
Optional features included a sunroof, upgraded alloy wheels, and various appearance packages. Overall, the Lancer's tech and safety features were adequate for its time, but not particularly advanced compared to some competitors.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Prices and Market Value
2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Cost of Ownership
2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Fuel Efficiency
2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Safety Rating
NHTSA
2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Compare to Other Sedan?
In terms of price, the Lancer was generally more affordable than the Civic, Corolla, and Mazda3 when new. However, its resale value is lower. Regarding reliability, the Corolla and Civic are generally considered more reliable than the Lancer, particularly regarding the CVT transmission.
Alternatives to the 2012 Lancer include the Mazda3 (for a better balance of sportiness and refinement), the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla (for superior reliability and resale value), or a used Acura TSX (for a more luxurious experience at a similar price point). The Hyundai Elantra is also worth considering for its value and features.
Ranks #1717 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1717 | 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer a Good Sedan?
Jaydubpsn on October 14, 2020
Fantastic drive 100k miles later!I love my lancer. It still holds that sleek look of modern cars. It's gas Friendly and the heated seats are a massive plus. I highly recommend this vehicle to anyone who needs a great commuter
Mermaid 3 on March 17, 2019
Reliable, sporty and excellent ride!I'm the second owner of the 2012 Lancer. Such an easy car to drive! Mechanically it's a great ride. Very roomy for a sedan. Plenty of leg room and storage in the trunk. Great on gas mileage and the look is very sporty and fun!
Jamma Coty on February 14, 2019
The Car I’ve Been Searching ForThe car has been an absolute joy every time I turn the key. It’s hard to not even want to be in the driver seat. I can’t wait to make this a trophy winner like my last Lancer. Follow me on IG @jammacity2010
Jeffory Zedaker on January 22, 2019
Not a bad little car, drives well, good handling.Not too comfortable or durable, but drives smooth enough and handles well. I would call it reliable and a decent value. Good fuel economy as well.
luvmylancer on August 27, 2018
Reliable and AffordableI am very happy with my purchase from Cransh Used Car. Cars.com directed me to this dealer. I was pleased with the service and performance of my car.
moxian liu on July 20, 2018
Most reliable car I am owningIt is pretty good. After I got it last November, nothing bad happened to me until now. It always runs so smoothly and quiet. The room inside the car is good, and the trunk is big. Anyway, it accompanies me so well during the past year when I stay in America. I like it very much!
Guru on November 19, 2017
Most Reliable Car in Mid-Size SedanCar with excellent Drivability and handling. Trim AWD drive will help you in snow time. And the Japanese make engine will never let you down.
ARCabanas on November 1, 2017
Reliable affordable vehicleFuel efficiency is great . Reliable vehicle with cheap maintance and easy do it yourself oil , spark plugs, ect. Changes . All wheel control helps in weatber .
Rivas95 on August 6, 2017
Nice and economical vehicle to ownThis is a nice economic vehicle with a nice condition and comfortable nice exterior and interior with nice interior color
AnthonyGigtonz on July 23, 2017
Fun first sports carI bought this car as my very first sports car to enter the world of all things fast and fun. For the few years I had the car it was taken care of accordingly and in return it took car of me. The comfort of the car was great although some long drives would be a bit uncomforting after a while, my every day commute to work never gave me an issue. The inside is made well the best part is digital display that welcomes you every time you turn the vehicle on and says good bye when you turn off. While driving I notice a shift assist on digital display as I was driving the car. As I drove the car would help with shifts to give the be possible gas mileage and cause the least amount of wear to the trans as possible which was a great touch. Although the car doesn't come with all wheel and the turbo engine with the right tires, and proper additions to the car driving it becomes a great experience, quick, shifty, and sounds amazing. Great ride, great tech, price needs a bit of a change.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.