Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Ford Focus, Subaru Impreza, Chevrolet Cruze
Competitive Analysis
Usp:
Often praised for its sporty styling, engaging handling (especially Ralliart and Evolution variants), and good value proposition.
Key Features
Design Philosophy:
Aggressive, 'jet fighter' grille design, sharp lines, and sporty proportions.
Variant Diversity:
Available in various trims from economical ES to sportier GTS, SE, Ralliart, and the high-performance Lancer Evolution (though the manual covers all variants, including the standard models).
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage Scope:
All models and all engines for the 2010 production year
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Likely over 1500 pages (based on typical OEM service manual density)
Manual Type
Type:
Official Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
DVD ISO (Digital, likely containing PDF or proprietary viewer files)
Step-by-step instructions for removing and installing major and minor components
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and electrical system schematics.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format:
ISO Image (typically contains PDFs, HTML files, or proprietary viewing software)
Print Quality
Digital Quality:
High-resolution, searchable text and clear diagrams/illustrations, suitable for printing specific pages.
Binding Type
Digital Binding:
N/A (Digital format, no physical binding)
Paper Type
Digital Paper:
N/A (Digital format, no physical paper)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code Common:
4B10 / 4B11
Displacement Common:
1.8L (1798cc) and 2.0L (1998cc) MIVEC DOHC inline-4
Bore Stroke 1.8L:
86.0 mm x 77.0 mm
Bore Stroke 2.0L:
86.0 mm x 86.0 mm
Compression Ratio 1.8L:
10.0:1
Compression Ratio 2.0L:
10.0:1
Performance
Horsepower 1.8L:
Approx. 143-148 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 1.8L:
Approx. 128-132 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm
Horsepower 2.0L:
Approx. 152 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 2.0L:
Approx. 145 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm
Fuel System
Injection Type:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Octane Rating:
87 Octane (Minimum)
Engine Management
ECU Type:
Mitsubishi Electronic Control Unit (ECU) with MIVEC control
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission (5MT)
Optional
Optional Transmission:
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with INVECS-III technology
Optional Transmission Alt:
6-speed TC-SST (Twin Clutch-SST) 'Sports Shift' automatic (primarily for Ralliart and Evolution variants, but covered)
Features
Cvt Features:
Steptronic-style paddle shifters (on certain trims), simulated gear shifts
Transmission Fluid
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
API GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-85 (Consult manual for exact fill)
Cvt Fluid Spec:
Diamond ATF SP-III or equivalent (Consult manual for exact fill)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length Overall:
Approx. 177.7 inches (4515 mm)
Width Overall:
Approx. 69.4 inches (1763 mm)
Height Overall:
Approx. 58.3 inches (1481 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.4 inches (2650 mm)
Front Track:
Approx. 60.2 inches (1530 mm)
Rear Track:
Approx. 60.4 inches (1535 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Min:
Approx. 2910 lbs (1320 kg) for base models
Curb Weight Max:
Approx. 3483 lbs (1579 kg) for Ralliart/EVO variants
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 14.3 cubic feet (405 liters)
Wheels Tires
Standard Wheel Size:
16-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels
Standard Tire Size:
205/60R16, 215/50R17 (Varies by trim)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)
Wheel Lug Nut Torque:
76-101 lb-ft (103-137 Nm)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Driver Rating:
5-Star (for 2010 models where tested)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Rating:
5-Star (for 2010 models where tested)
NHTSA Side Driver Rating:
5-Star (for 2010 models where tested)
NHTSA Side Passenger Rating:
5-Star (for 2010 models where tested)
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger Rating:
5-Star (for 2010 models where tested)
IIHS Front Crashworthiness Rating:
Good (for 2010 models where tested)
IIHS Side Crashworthiness Rating:
Good (for 2010 models where tested)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Available Active Stability Control (ASC)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags (standard on most trims)
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Rockford-Fosgate premium audio system with subwoofer available on higher trims. Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 with auxiliary input.
Navigation:
Optional HDD-based navigation system with touch-screen interface on select trims.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Keyless Entry:
Available keyless entry and start system
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free phone system
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 4,500 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (Consult manual for specific recommendation).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Recommended replacement every 30,000 miles.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Recommended replacement every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement 4B10:
Iridium type: 75,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement 4B11:
Iridium type: 75,000 miles
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type Common:
SAE 0W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified
Engine Oil Capacity 1.8L:
Approx. 4.2 US quarts (4.0 liters) with filter change
Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L:
Approx. 4.4 US quarts (4.2 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 5.7 US quarts (5.4 liters) for 1.8L / 6.2 US quarts (5.9 liters) for 2.0L
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
DEXRON III MERCON or equivalent ATF (Check manual for exact specification)
Known Issues
Cvt Issues:
Some early CVT models reported occasional hesitation or transmission fluid leaks. Regular fluid changes are crucial.
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear of engine mounts can lead to increased vibration, especially noticeable at idle or under acceleration.
Evap Emissions System:
Potential issues with the EVAP (Evaporative Emission Control) system, such as faulty vent control valves or purge solenoids, can trigger check engine lights.
Interior Rattles:
Some owners report interior trim rattles, particularly around the dashboard and door panels.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mitsubishi Motors History:
Japanese manufacturer with a long history in automotive production, known for innovations like the Outlander, Eclipse, and the legendary Lancer Evolution.
Model Evolution
Lancer Lineage:
The Lancer nameplate has been used by Mitsubishi since 1973, evolving through multiple generations and body styles. The 2010 model represents the tenth generation (Lancer 'Global' Platform).
Tenth Generation Launch:
Introduced for the 2008 model year, the tenth generation Lancer brought a significant design and engineering update, moving to the GS platform shared with the Outlander.
Production
Assembly Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan (Mizushima Plant) and Australia (Tonsley Park Plant).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
IIHS Top Safety Pick Candidate:
The Lancer model range generally performed well in safety tests, making it a candidate for safety accolades.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Varies by specific year and trim, but generally considered average to above-average in reliability and performance for its class.