2015-2017 Mitsubishi Lancer IX (facelift ) 2.4 (168 Hp) AWD CVT

The Mitsubishi Lancer has long been a recognizable nameplate in the compact sedan segment, known for its blend of practicality, affordability, and in some iterations, performance heritage. The model under scrutiny here is the Mitsubishi Lancer IX (facelift 2015), representing a late-production refresh of the ninth-generation Lancer (often referred to as the Lancer X in many international markets). This particular variant, produced from 2015 to 2017, features a 2.4-liter engine delivering 168 horsepower, an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

Positioned as a practical and capable compact sedan, this refreshed Lancer aimed to maintain its competitive edge in a fiercely contested segment, particularly in markets where its combination of AWD and a robust naturally aspirated engine offered a distinct advantage. While the Lancer nameplate has seen various forms globally, this 2015 facelift model offered a refined package for consumers seeking a reliable and versatile daily driver with enhanced traction capabilities.

Engine & Performance of the Mitsubishi Lancer IX (facelift 2015)

Powering this iteration of the Mitsubishi Lancer IX (facelift 2015) is Mitsubishi’s 4B12 engine, a 2.4-liter (2360 cm3 or 144.02 cu. in.) naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder unit. This engine is configured with a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain and four valves per cylinder, ensuring efficient breathing and combustion. With a compression ratio of 10.5:1 and a multi-port manifold injection system, the engine is designed for a balance of power delivery and fuel efficiency.

The 4B12 engine generates a peak output of 168 horsepower at 6000 rpm, providing ample motivation for the compact sedan. Torque stands at 226 Nm (166.69 lb-ft) at 4100 rpm, delivering a responsive feel, especially in the mid-range, which is beneficial for everyday driving and highway passing maneuvers. This powertrain architecture is mounted transversely at the front of the vehicle.

A key differentiator for this Lancer variant is its drivetrain. It comes equipped with an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, a significant feature in its class that enhances traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions or on unpaved roads. The power is managed by an automatic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). This gearbox is engineered to provide seamless acceleration and optimize fuel economy by keeping the engine within its most efficient operating range. While some enthusiasts might prefer a traditional geared automatic or manual, the CVT contributes to a smooth and refined driving experience, a priority for many compact sedan buyers.

In terms of fuel economy, the Mitsubishi Lancer IX (facelift 2015) 2.4 AWD CVT offers competitive figures for an AWD vehicle in its segment. The combined fuel consumption is rated at 9.0 liters per 100 kilometers, which translates to approximately 26.1 US miles per gallon. Urban driving yields about 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg), while extra-urban (highway) driving improves to 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg). These figures underscore Mitsubishi’s efforts to balance performance with economic operation. The vehicle also boasts a weight-to-power ratio of 8.5 kg/Hp (117.9 Hp/tonne) and a weight-to-torque ratio of 6.3 kg/Nm (158.6 Nm/tonne), indicating a well-balanced power-to-weight characteristic for its intended purpose.

Design & Features of the Lancer IX (facelift 2015)

The Mitsubishi Lancer IX (facelift 2015) maintains the familiar sporty silhouette of the Lancer, which had become a hallmark of the generation. As a four-door sedan, it offers seating for five occupants. Facelifts typically involve updates to the front and rear fascias, including grille designs, headlight and taillight graphics, and bumper styling, aimed at refreshing the vehicle’s appearance and aligning it with contemporary design trends. While specific facelift details are not widely documented, these updates generally give the car a more modern and aggressive stance.

Measuring 182.09 inches (4625 mm) in length, 69.29 inches (1760 mm) in width (80.47 inches or 2044 mm including mirrors), and with a height ranging from 58.27 to 59.25 inches (1480-1505 mm), the Lancer provides a compact yet spacious cabin. Its wheelbase of 103.74 inches (2635 mm) contributes to a stable ride and comfortable interior space for its class. The trunk offers a practical 14.13 cubic feet (400 liters) of cargo volume, making it suitable for daily errands or weekend trips.

Underneath, the Lancer employs a robust suspension system designed for comfort and confident handling. The front features an independent MacPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear utilizes an independent multi-link spring suspension with a stabilizer bar. This combination helps to absorb road imperfections while maintaining composure during cornering. Braking power is provided by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, complemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced stopping control. The vehicle is equipped with hydraulic power steering, offering direct feedback to the driver through a rack and pinion system. Standard tire size is 205/60 R16 on 16-inch wheel rims, providing a good balance between ride comfort and grip. A ground clearance of 5.51 inches (140 mm) is typical for a compact sedan, suitable for urban environments.

Technical Specifications

Legacy & Market Impact of the Mitsubishi Lancer IX (facelift 2015)

The Mitsubishi Lancer has a storied history, particularly its association with motorsports through the legendary Lancer Evolution. While the Mitsubishi Lancer IX (facelift 2015) 2.4 (168 Hp) AWD CVT variant was not a high-performance Evolution model, it benefited from the Lancer’s overall reputation for durability and value. This particular facelift model, arriving late in the ninth-generation’s lifecycle, was strategically positioned to offer a compelling package in various global markets, including North America, where the Lancer had a consistent presence.

In its primary markets, the Lancer competed against a host of well-established compact sedans such as the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Hyundai Elantra, and Kia Forte. What set this specific Lancer apart, especially in regions like the US, was the availability of its All-Wheel Drive system in a non-performance trim. While Subaru offered AWD across its Impreza lineup, the Lancer provided an alternative for buyers seeking enhanced traction without necessarily opting for a Subaru. This made it an attractive choice for consumers in areas with challenging winter weather or those who simply appreciated the added grip and stability.

The 2.4-liter engine, paired with the CVT, provided a good balance of everyday usability and reasonable fuel economy. While perhaps not the most exhilarating powertrain, it was reliable and smooth, aligning with the expectations of many compact sedan buyers. The facelift itself aimed to keep the Lancer’s design fresh in the face of ever-evolving competition, offering updated aesthetics to appeal to a wider audience before the model’s eventual discontinuation.

The Lancer’s enduring legacy is one of a dependable workhorse, often appreciated for its straightforward mechanics and solid construction. The 2015 facelift served as a testament to Mitsubishi’s commitment to the model, offering a refined and capable compact sedan that, despite its age, still provided a competitive feature set, especially with its unique AWD offering. Its production run from 2015 to 2017 marked the final years of the Lancer in many major markets, making this particular variant a significant part of the nameplate’s final chapter as a global compact sedan. Its impact was felt most strongly by those who valued its practicality, all-weather capability, and the robust engineering that Mitsubishi was known for.