ASC (Active Stability Control) or ASC + TC (Active Stability Control + Traction Control)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags, side curtain airbags, front-seat side airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Body Structure:
RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body construction
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Available Rockford-Fosgate premium audio system, touchscreen infotainment with Bluetooth, USB connectivity, navigation (optional)
Driver Assistance
Optional Features:
Keyless entry and start, rearview camera, HID headlights (on select trims)
Connectivity
Bluetooth Handsfree:
Standard on most trims for phone calls and audio streaming.
Controls
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,750 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for exact OEM recommendation).
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed; typically every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by spark plug type (Iridium is common), often around 60,000 - 105,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change:
CVT fluid: often 'lifetime' but early changes recommended (e.g., 60,000 miles); Manual/Auto: check condition, typically 50,000 - 100,000 miles.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20 (API SN or ILSAC GF-5 compliant recommended)
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC), or equivalent (green)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Cvt:
DiaQueen CVT Fluid J1
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-3 or GL-4 SAE 75W-85
Known Issues
Cvt Reliability:
Some CVT models have reported issues with longevity or requiring specific fluid changes; refer to service bulletins and manual for proper care.
Suspension Wear:
Front control arm bushings and sway bar links can wear over time, leading to knocking noises.
Engine Mounts:
Engine and transmission mounts can degrade, causing increased vibration.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mitsubishi Motors Legacy:
Mitsubishi has a long history in motorsports, particularly rallying, which influences the sporty nature of the Lancer line.
Model Evolution
Lancer Lineage:
The Lancer Sportback is part of the Lancer family, which has seen numerous generations and variations, including sedans and performance models like the Evolution (Evo).
Eighth Generation Context:
The 2012-2015 models fall within the eighth generation (CY) of the Lancer, which debuted in 2007. The Sportback variant was introduced later as a more practical alternative to the sedan.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan (Mizushima Plant) and other global facilities.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Safety Awards:
Models from this generation often received good safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, but specific awards vary by year and test criteria.
Ratings
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Certain model years may have qualified for IIHS Top Safety Pick awards.
Certifications
Emissions Compliance:
Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for its respective model years.