A nice alternative to the all too common civic or corolla. I would describe the acceleration as adequate (hence 3 stars for performance). Handling has a definite sporty feel. Understeers quite predictably. Easy to drive at the limit. Smooth clutch operation, but shifter lacks the precision of a Honda’s. It shifts smoothly, but just not perfectly. Nice brake feel, easy to modulate. ABS really not necessary since the brakes have a very direct feel. So, this is a fun little car! Great mileage- 30+ on the highway. Just as with other small sedans, cost of ownership is very low. This is a practical, everyday car that has a bit of a sports car feel. If you are in the market for a civic, corolla, etc- don't forget to check out the lancer.

I love getting Japanese quality for Korean prices. The Lancer gets passed up as an "off-brand" Japanese car, making used-car prices appealingly low. The thing's a blast to drive, even in automatic trim. It's peppy (for a small car) and relatively quiet. Cost of ownership is very low. Aside from regular oil /fluid changes and a timing belt swap at 120k, the car has not required any service.

good handling car, doesn't go fast, doesn't look very good, has good gas mileage. Can beat any car with a V8 or lower, in any race with turns

This car is quick with the 2.4L MIVEC power plant. The FWD isn't the greatest, there ia a little torque steer on hard take offs, but not enough for very many people to notice. A LSD would go nicely up there. The handling around back road twists is very neutral. There are some curves that i was afraid to take the Z around at any sort of speed, those are the curves where the Lancer shines. This is a great performing car. The interior is pretty basic, one complaint is the lack of a map light, but it's no big deal. I have gotten around 23-24 MPG with mixed driving

Great car. Japanies brand are always bulletproff. No matter how hard the conditions are it has always proved its good traction and handling. The only thing that created problems was when it was checked by the local machanic. Otherwise its lots of fun.