The Mitsubishi Lancer IX (facelift 2015) 2.4 (168 Hp) represents a persistent and refined iteration of a globally recognized nameplate. While much of the automotive world had progressed to newer generations of the Lancer by the mid-2010s, certain markets continued to embrace and evolve this preceding generation. This particular facelift, produced from 2015 to 2017, offered a compelling combination of practicality, a reasonably powerful engine, and the renowned durability Mitsubishi is known for, all within a compact sedan package. It primarily served regions in Asia, the Middle East, and developing economies, demonstrating Mitsubishi’s commitment to catering to diverse global demands.
Mitsubishi Lancer IX (facelift 2015) 2.4 (168 Hp): A Detailed Overview
This detailed review examines the specifics of this Lancer variant, focusing on its powertrain, design philosophy, technical specifications, and its overall impact within the automotive landscape it occupied. Despite its limited presence in markets like the United States by this point, its continued production and refinement highlight Mitsubishi’s strategic approach to serving specific global needs.
Engine & Performance: The 4B12 Powertrain
The Mitsubishi Lancer IX (facelift 2015) 2.4 (168 Hp) is powered by the 4B12 engine, a 2.4-liter (2360 cm3 or 144.02 cu. in.) naturally aspirated inline-four powerplant. This engine is recognized for its strong mid-range torque and reliable operation, producing 168 horsepower at 6000 rpm. Complementing this power output is 226 Nm (166.69 lb.-ft.) of torque, peaking at 4100 rpm, providing ample motivation for confident acceleration and comfortable cruising.
The 4B12 engine utilizes a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing efficiency and contributing to both power and fuel economy. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port manifold injection system, a proven technology offering a balance of performance and reliability. With a compression ratio of 10.5:1, the engine is optimized for gasoline (petrol) and achieves a power-to-liter ratio of 71.2 Hp/l.
Power is transferred to the front wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission. This gearbox choice prioritizes driver engagement and provides a direct connection to the engine’s output, appealing to drivers in the markets where this Lancer variant was popular. The front-wheel-drive architecture is typical for the segment, contributing to predictable handling and efficient packaging.
Fuel efficiency is competitive for its class and era. In urban driving, it achieves approximately 22 US mpg (10.7 l/100 km). On the highway, this improves to around 30.9 US mpg (7.6 l/100 km), with a combined cycle rating of 25 US mpg (9.4 l/100 km). These figures demonstrate the engine’s balance of performance and sensible fuel consumption, making it an economical choice for daily commuting and longer journeys.
Design & Features: A Refreshed Sedan
The Mitsubishi Lancer IX (facelift 2015) maintains the classic four-door sedan body style, a practical choice for families and individuals. The 2015 facelift introduced subtle but effective updates to the exterior, refreshing its appearance and aligning it with contemporary design trends while preserving the recognizable Lancer silhouette. These updates typically included a restyled grille and bumper, and updated lighting signatures, resulting in a sharper and more modern look.
The Lancer measures 182.09 inches (4625 mm) in length, 69.29 inches (1760 mm) in width (80.47 inches or 2044 mm including mirrors), and stands between 58.27 to 59.25 inches (1480-1505 mm) tall, offering a well-proportioned stance. Its 103.74-inch (2635 mm) wheelbase contributes to a stable ride and a surprisingly spacious interior for five occupants. The vehicle’s curb weight of 2976.24 lbs (1350 kg) is relatively light for its class, enhancing its agile feel and fuel efficiency.
Inside, the Lancer provides seating for five passengers, with a focus on ergonomics and durability. Interior features vary by market and trim level, but the facelift likely included updated upholstery, improved infotainment options, and minor dashboard revisions to enhance the user experience. Practicality is a key strength, with a minimum trunk (boot) space of 14.13 cu. ft. (400 liters), suitable for daily errands or weekend trips.
Safety features for the 2015 model year typically included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced stopping power and control. The suspension system comprises an independent McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar at the front, paired with an independent multi-link spring suspension with a stabilizer bar at the rear. This combination provides a comfortable ride and competent handling. Braking is handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, ensuring reliable deceleration. The car rides on 18-inch wheels, fitted with 215/45 R18 tires, contributing to both aesthetic appeal and road grip.
Technical Specifications
| Category | Specification |
| General Information | |
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Lancer IX (facelift 2015) |
| Engine Type | 2.4 (168 Hp) |
| Production Start | 2015 |
| Production End | 2017 |
| Body Type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Performance Specs | |
| Power | 168 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 226 Nm (166.69 lb.-ft.) @ 4100 rpm |
| Fuel Consumption (Urban) | 22 US mpg (10.7 l/100 km) |
| Fuel Consumption (Extra Urban) | 30.9 US mpg (7.6 l/100 km) |
| Fuel Consumption (Combined) | 25 US mpg (9.4 l/100 km) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-Power Ratio | 8 kg/Hp, 124.4 Hp/tonne |
| Engine Specs | |
| Engine Model/Code | 4B12 |
| Engine Displacement | 2360 cm3 (144.02 cu. in.) |
| Number of Cylinders | 4 |
| Engine Configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 3.46 in. (88 mm) |
| Piston Stroke | 3.82 in. (97 mm) |
| Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel Injection System | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine Aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 4.86 US qt (4.6 l) |
| Coolant Capacity | 7.4 US qt (7 l) |
| Dimensions & Weights | |
| Length | 182.09 in. (4625 mm) |
| Width | 69.29 in. (1760 mm) |
| Width incl. Mirrors | 80.47 in. (2044 mm) |
| Height | 58.27 – 59.25 in. (1480-1505 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 103.74 in. (2635 mm) |
| Front Track | 60.24 in. (1530 mm) |
| Rear Track | 60.24 in. (1530 mm) |
| Ride Height (Ground Clearance) | 5.79 in. (147 mm) |
| Minimum Turning Circle | 32.81 ft (10.0 m) |
| Kerb Weight | 2976.24 lbs (1350 kg) |
| Max. Weight | 4078.55 lbs (1850 kg) |
| Max Load | 1102.31 lbs (500 kg) |
| Trunk (Boot) Space | 14.13 cu. ft. (400 l) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 15.59 US gal (59 l) |
| Max. Roof Load | 176.37 lbs (80 kg) |
| Permitted Towbar Download | 121.25 lbs (55 kg) |
| Drivetrain, Brakes & Suspension | |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front-wheel drive, Internal Combustion Engine |
| Drive Wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Gearbox Type | 5-speed manual transmission |
| Front Suspension | Independent, McPherson strut with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear Suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front Brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear Brakes | Disc |
| Assisting Systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering Type | Rack and pinion |
| Power Steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires Size | 215/45 R18 |
| Wheel Rims Size | 18 inches |
Legacy and Market Impact
The Mitsubishi Lancer, in its various forms, has earned a reputation for dependability and practicality worldwide. The Mitsubishi Lancer IX (facelift 2015) 2.4 (168 Hp) continued this legacy. By 2015, the Lancer had largely concluded its run in North America, making this facelifted IX generation a noteworthy chapter in its global story. It wasn’t designed to directly compete with the latest offerings from Japanese or Korean manufacturers in developed markets, but rather to provide a reliable and value-oriented option in regions where durability and proven technology were essential.
In its primary markets, this Lancer variant competed with other long-running compact sedans, such as the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, and Hyundai Elantra. The Lancer’s appeal stemmed from its strong build quality, the robust performance of its 2.4-liter engine, and the straightforward reliability of its mechanical components, including the 5-speed manual transmission. Its relatively simple engineering made it easy to maintain and repair, a crucial factor in many developing economies.
The 2015 facelift was a strategic move by Mitsubishi to extend the life cycle of a successful platform, offering updated aesthetics and features without the significant costs of an all-new generation. This approach allowed Mitsubishi to maintain a competitive presence in key markets, providing a familiar and trusted product to its customer base. The Lancer IX’s long production run, culminating in this facelifted version, is a testament to its fundamental soundness and adaptability. It reinforced Mitsubishi’s image as a manufacturer of durable and practical vehicles, even as the brand shifted its global focus towards SUVs and crossovers. Ultimately, the Mitsubishi Lancer IX (facelift 2015) 2.4 (168 Hp) stands as a significant footnote in the Lancer’s history, representing its enduring appeal and strategic market positioning in its final years of production.
