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AutoBuzz Special: The 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
By Ulysses Ang
Photos By Jason Ang
Information Courtesy of Diamond Motors

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After being aptly described as ‘long in the tooth’, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has finally released their biggest competitor to the 1.6-liter segment yet…the all-new 2003 Lancer.  Automotive enthusiasts have patiently and anxiously waited for this sedan to carry on the legendary nameplate for the three-pointed diamond.  Has the wait been worth it? 

Definitely.  The all-new Lancer is one technologically advanced and handsome machine.  From the outside, the Lancer’s new sheet metal is crisp without clutter or distractive elements.  Though there’s an obvious lack of chrome exterior bits, exterior detailing is great with attractive multi-reflector headlamps and a sporty horizontal grille design.  The pull-type door handles (chrome on the top-of-the-line MX) gives the 2003 version some flair.  From the back, the red / white combination tail lamps serve as a great finishing touch. 

Both the MX and the GLS come with 195 / 55 HR 15 Goodyear NCT3 tires mounted on 6-spoke aluminum alloy wheels with a chrome center cap design.  The GLX meanwhile gets 185 / 65 HR 14 tires. 

In terms of size, the 2003 Lancer has grown in every aspect compared to the model it replaces. It now measures in at 4500 in overall length, 1695 in overall width and 1445 in overall height. The biggest change however with this model is the wheelbase: 2600 mm.  That's a 100 mm growth!

Inside, the Lancer is classy with a beige and bronze combination scheme highlighted by a very ergonomic center dash design.  The sporty, yet elegant interior is, like on the outside, uncluttered.  The materials put Mitsubishi back into the game with high-grade plastics all throughout. 

The range topping MX gets a Pioneer single DIN stereo with 6-disc CD / VCD changer that’s mounted under the front passenger seat.  In addition, it gets a pop-up LCD screen that enables the passengers to watch their favorite movies on the go. 

Capping it all off is a 6-speaker system that delivers a high-fidelity sound experience.  The MX also receives wood grain paneling—that finally looks like it oozes class. 

The range-topping Lancer MX is a great bargain at P840,000. It comes standard with a 6-speed CVT INVECS-III transmission with Sportronic plus an all-leather interior and wood grain paneling.

This will definitely be the volume seller of the range. The GLS, like the entire Lancer line is powered by a 110-bhp inline-4 engine. The GLS can be bought with an optional for the exceptionally smooth CVT transmission system.

Even if it's destined for the fleet market, the Lancer GLX still gets a decent spec thanks to a Pioneer in-dash CD player and stereo system. In addition, it also gets a 3-year / 100,000 kilometer warranty. It's only available as a 5-speed manual.

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