Mitsubishi Lancer Sixth Generation

Sixth generation

In 1995, the Lancer was renewed for its sixth generation, building on the earlier model's format. Apart from the Evo models' continuation, it did not depart from the established Lancer formula. A sedan and wagon (Libero in Japan) were offered, with a related Mirage model. The coupé continued as the Mirage Asti in Japan, known as the Lancer Coupé elsewhere. The 1995 Lancer (Model from 1995-2002 in some countries) is more popularly known as the 1997 Lancer. A turbocharged GSR version continued to be sold until the end of the 1990s. This platform was also the basis for the Mirage, as it was known in North America and various other markets.

From 1996-2004, the Mitsubishi Carisma replaced the Mitsubishi Lancer in some markets.

It is of note, that the Lancer Evolution V was the only Lancer Evolution to gain Mitsubishi the WRC constructors championship. However, driver Tommi Makinen was able to claim four WRC driver's championships for himself, in 1996-1999, driving Mitsubishi's Lancer Evolution III, IV, V & VI.

Australia (1996–2004)

In Australia, the sixth sold from 1996-2004. It was designated as the CE series. Like the previous generation, it was available in a variety of body styles, which helped to cater for a more broad audience. The introduction of a sporty MR coupe helped to target this model directly towards a younger audience. The station wagon continued on as a CE model, even though it was essentially carried over from the previous generation. This model had an unusually long model run, becoming increasingly uncompetitive as the years went by and often heavily discounted by dealers. Towards the end of its model run, Mitsubishi introduced some limited edition models (based on the GLi) to remain competitive with its rivals, these editions featured extras such as sports interiors, alloys and body kits off higher spec models. Generally, this generation sold well throughout its production run.

It should be noted that despite the introduction of the eighth generation Lancer Cedia in 2002, the CE series continued to be sold alongside it until mid-2004. The sedan was available in GLi trim, until it was finally discontinued in 2003. The coupe was facelifted and now only available in GLi and MR trims.

Due to its appearance, affordability, and the rise in status of the Lancer Evolution, this generation was quite popular with young car enthusiasts and the aftermarket modified Japanese car scene. Some popular modifications include exhaust systems, suspension, after market stereos and replica Evolution body kits.

Model and trim levels:

Series I (96-98) and Series II (98-99)

• GLi - 2-door coupe and 4-door sedan. Powered by a 4 cylinder, 1.5 L engine (4G15 SOHC - 69 kW)
• GLXi - 2-door coupe and 4-door sedan. Powered by a 4 cylinder, 1.8 L engine (4G93 SOHC - 88 kW)
• MR - 2-door coupe. Powered by a 4 cylinder, 1.8L engine (4G93 SOHC - 86 kW)
• MR - 4-door coupe. Powered by a 4 cylinder, 1.6L MIVEC engine (4G92 DOHC - 130 kW)
• GSR - 4-door sedan. Powered by a turbocharged 1.8 L engine (4G93t DOHC - 141 kW)

Series III (99-03)

• GLi - 2-door coupe (1.5 L or 1.8 L) and 4-door sedan (4 cylinder, 1.8 L)
• GLXi - 2-door coupe and 4-door sedan. Powered by a 4 cylinder, 1.8 L engine
• MR - 2-door coupe. Powered by a 4 cylinder (6 cylinder, 99-00), 1.8 L engine

Series IV (02-04) coupe update only

• GLi - Choice of 1.5 L engine (discontinued in 2003) or 1.8 L engine, 4 Cylinder
• MR - Powered by a 1.8 L engine, producing 86 kW (115 hp) & 163 N·m (120 lb·ft) of torque (1500-4500 rpm) out of a 4 cylinder

Philippines (1996–2002)

Described as "Lancer Pizza" such for their pizza-shaped rear lamps.

• EL - 4 door sedan with 1.3 L carb engine (4G13 - 55 kW)
• GL - 4 door sedan with 1.5 L engine (4G15 - 65 kW)
• GLXi - 4 door sedan with 1.6 L SOHC engine (4G92 - 85 kW)
• GLX - 1999-2002 model 4 door sedan with 1.5 L carb engine
• GLS - 1999-2002 model 4 door sedan with 1.6 L Fuel injected engine
• MX - 1999-2002 model 4 door sedan top of the line with 1.6 L EFI SOHC engine with INVECS automatic transmission.
• GSR - 2-door coupe (97-02) Powered by 1.6 L 4G92 SOHC engine

Production	1995–2000
Body style(s)	2-door coupe 4-door sedan 4-door station wagon
Layout	Front engine, front-/four-wheel drive
Engine(s)	1.5 L SOHC I4 1.8 L SOHC I4 1.8 L DOHC Turbo I4
Transmission(s)	4-speed automatic 4-speed semi-auto 5-speed manual
Wheelbase	2,500 mm (98.4 in) (sedan) 2,440 mm (96.1 in) (coupe)
Related	Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Mitsubishi Carisma Volvo S40 Volvo V40 Mitsubishi Mirage Mitsubishi Chariot/Space Wagon/Expo Dodge/Plymouth Colt Eagle Summit Soueast Lioncel