Mitsubishi
Lancer
Subaru
Impreza
Mitsubishi Lancer vs Subaru Impreza: 2023 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Subaru Impreza comes out ahead of the Mitsubishi Lancer on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Lancer
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided between the standard Lancer models and the high-performance Evolution variants. For standard Lancers (ES, GTS, Aspire, etc.), owner feedback is generally positive regarding reliability, practicality, and low-cost ownership. These models are frequently described as "super reliable," with specific praise for the 4G94 and 4B11 engines, cheap parts, and straightforward maintenance.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a single "best" version, as preferences split by purpose. For reliability and low-cost operation: the standard Lancer with a manual transmission is highly recommended to avoid CVT complexities.
Known issues
- ⚠CVT transmission reliability concerns: uses JATCO CVT shared with other brands; long-term reliability questioned, though some owners report high mileage (280,000+ km) without fluid changes. Fluid changes are critical. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Electrical gremlins: issues include non-responsive accelerator pedal (2013 model), headlights staying on permanently (2008 model), and complete electrical system failures (radio, wipers, HVAC) with flickering lights. Frequency: isolated.
- ⚠Rough idle on cold start: reported on a 2009 2.4L model; not resolved by air filter or oxygen sensor replacement. Frequency: isolated.
Impreza
Overall
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide. Long-term owners of older models (circa 2005-2013) with naturally aspirated engines and manual transmissions frequently praise the vehicles for their practicality, spacious interiors (especially hatchbacks), and exceptional all-wheel-drive capability in winter conditions. These owners report high satisfaction with reliability when maintenance is followed, though they note poor fuel economy and high road tax as significant drawbacks.
Best version to buy
Models from 2014 or newer are frequently recommended for their updated FB engines which resolved the pervasive head gasket issues of earlier EJ25 engines. Within this generation, the manual transmission is strongly preferred by a segment of owners to avoid the widely criticized CVT.
Known issues
- ⚠CVT transmission problems: Jerky, hesitant behavior in stop-and-go traffic (10-30 mph / 16-48 km/h); pronounced concerns about long-term reliability and high replacement costs; fluid leaks indicative of failure. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Excessive oil consumption: Primarily noted on older models (pre-2014) with EJ-series engines, requiring frequent top-ups. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Head gasket failures: A historical issue strongly associated with pre-2012 models equipped with the EJ25 engine, particularly in North America. Frequency: recurrent (for older generations).
The verdict
The Subaru Impreza is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Mitsubishi Lancer, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Mitsubishi Lancer is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Mitsubishi Lancer or the Subaru Impreza?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Mitsubishi Lancer and the Subaru Impreza. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Mitsubishi Lancer or the Subaru Impreza?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Mitsubishi Lancer is classed as a Sedan, the Subaru Impreza as a Hatchback, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Mitsubishi Lancer or the Subaru Impreza?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Mitsubishi Lancer or the Subaru Impreza?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Mitsubishi Lancer than the Subaru Impreza. See the known issues comparison above.