Cars
2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Full Review & Buyer Guide
Why the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Still Stands Out Today
The 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer remains a highly popular sedan even today thanks to its sporty design, reliable Japanese engineering, and durable construction. This model is often recognized as one of the best “budget sport sedans” of its generation. When Mitsubishi redesigned the Lancer in 2007–2008, it introduced a more aggressive exterior, a wider body, and improved safety elements that quickly made it a favorite among enthusiasts and family buyers.
Today, the 2008 Lancer is still widely preferred across countries like India, Pakistan, Egypt, and the UAE in the used-car market. This article covers everything you need to know — when it was built, when it was discontinued, who manufactured it, its specifications, performance, India availability, and complete quick details.
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Quick Details: 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Mitsubishi Motors (Japan) |
| Model Year | 2008 |
| Generation | 9th Generation Lancer |
| Production Start | 2007 |
| Production End | 2017 (Discontinued globally) |
| Body Type | 4-Door Compact Sedan |
| Engine Options | 1.5L, 1.6L, 1.8L, 2.0L MIVEC |
| Horsepower | 109–152 HP |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual / CVT |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| Seating Capacity | 5 Persons |
| Drive Type | FWD |
| Known For | Reliability, sporty handling, low maintenance |
Background and Production History of the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
The 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer belongs to the 9th generation of the globally recognized Lancer lineup. Mitsubishi first introduced the Lancer in 1973, but the 2007–2017 generation became one of the most iconic. The 2008 model year marked a major design shift with improved aerodynamics, modern styling, and stronger safety architecture.
Mitsubishi Motors, headquartered in Japan, engineered the Lancer with the aim of blending reliability, sporty performance, and durable build quality. Production took place in Japan, Thailand, and Australia for global markets. The Lancer remained in production until 2017 when it was officially discontinued. Despite that, the 2008 variant still remains in high demand in used-car markets worldwide.
Design & Build Quality – Sporty Looks with Long-Lasting Durability
The 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer features one of the most striking designs in its class. Its “shark-nose front fascia,” wide stance, and muscular fenders give it a sporty and dynamic presence on the road. The aerodynamic lines reduce wind resistance and enhance stability during high-speed driving.
Inside, the cabin is simple yet functional, with a driver-focused layout and easily accessible controls. The dashboard features sporty analog gauges, and the seating position offers good visibility. Build quality is solid, as the body consists of reinforced steel for enhanced strength. This strong construction contributes to the Lancer’s notable long-term durability, which remains one of its biggest selling points even today.
Engine, Performance & Fuel Efficiency – Real Driving Experience
The 2008 Lancer came with multiple MIVEC engine options, including 1.5L, 1.6L, 1.8L, and the popular 2.0L variant that produces up to 152 horsepower. This engine delivers smooth acceleration, responsive throttle control, and reliable long-term performance.
The 5-speed manual transmission enhances the sporty feel, while the CVT offers a smoother urban driving experience. The Lancer’s suspension setup balances comfort and stability, making the car enjoyable for both city and highway driving. Fuel economy for the 2008 Lancer ranges between 10–13 km/l depending on driving style and engine size. Engine overheating or major mechanical failures are rare, further strengthening its reputation as a reliable vehicle.
Safety & Comfort – Built for Family and Everyday Use
Safety was a key focus for Mitsubishi when designing the 2008 Lancer. The sedan comes equipped with dual front airbags, reinforced side-impact protection beams, and improved crash-absorption zones. ABS was available in higher trims, making braking performance more secure.
On the comfort side, the Lancer features supportive seats, a well-insulated cabin, and smooth suspension tuning that absorbs road imperfections effectively. The interior space is generous for a compact sedan, especially in terms of rear legroom. Whether for city commutes or long drives, the Lancer delivers a comfortable and safe driving experience that suits small families and daily users.
2008 Mitsubishi Lancer in India – Availability, Market Demand & Pricing
The Mitsubishi Lancer was officially sold in India and gained a loyal following from 2006 to around 2012. The 2008 model was available as a new car during that period. However, the Lancer series has been discontinued in India, and the model is no longer available as new.
Today, the 2008 Lancer is available only in the used-car market. On platforms like OLX India and CarWale, prices typically range from ₹95,000 to ₹3,00,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. Despite being discontinued, the car is still preferred by enthusiasts who appreciate its performance and Japanese reliability. The demand remains stable in the used-car segment due to its strong build and low maintenance nature.
Common Issues & Maintenance Guide – What Buyers Should Know
Although the 2008 Lancer is generally reliable, it has a few commonly reported issues. Suspension bush wear is one of the more frequent maintenance points, especially in older vehicles. Some owners report dashboard fading and occasional CVT transmission jerks.
The manual transmission models are considered more dependable and cost-effective to maintain. Mitsubishi’s MIVEC engines are known for long-term durability, and with regular oil changes, coolant maintenance, and scheduled services, the Lancer can easily last over 300,000 km.
Parts availability in India has decreased, but imported and aftermarket parts are still accessible. Proper maintenance ensures the Lancer continues performing smoothly for years.
Should You Buy the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Today?
If you want an affordable, sporty, and reliable Japanese sedan, the 2008 Lancer is still a strong competitor in the used-car market. Its solid build quality, excellent driving experience, and long engine life make it a smart choice for buyers on a budget.
While spare parts availability is not as strong as it once was, they can be sourced online or through specialized parts dealers. The manual transmission version is especially recommended for buyers who want both reliability and lower maintenance expenses. Overall, the 2008 Lancer offers far better performance and durability compared to many modern budget sedans.
Conclusion
The 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer remains one of the most respected Japanese sedans ever produced. Its combination of sporty styling, solid build quality, and long-lasting engine performance continues to attract buyers even years after its global discontinuation. The car’s aggressive exterior, comfortable interior, and dependable MIVEC powertrain make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable used sedan.
In India, although the Lancer is no longer sold as a new model, the used-car market still offers good options at affordable prices. Yes, the availability of spare parts can sometimes be a challenge, but the Lancer’s durability and low maintenance needs compensate for this. If you want a sedan that delivers strong value, dependable performance, and a sporty driving feel, the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer remains a smart and practical choice even today.
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