When our mechanic called to tell us that our 1999 Mazda Millenia needed 1000s of dollars in repairs and we'd be better off finding a new car, my wife and I found ourselves unexpectedly car shopping. I'd seen the new Lancers in pictures and a few on the road, and really liked what I'd seen and read. My wife, OTOH, wanted a Toyota Camry. After much discussion, and since this would be the car I'd be driving, she agreed to let me buy the Lancer. I'm glad I did. The Lancer is a stunning shape on the outside, and offers nice amenities that would run thousands of dollars more in a car like the Camry. To the base Lancer I added the Sun & Sound Package with the excellent Rockford Fosgate stereo. And I also added the fantastic Navigation unit. So for the cost of a base Camry, I got a loaded Lancer including alloy wheels, a wonderful stereo, a Nav unit that stores and plays back 100 of my favorite CDs and all the expected little amenities (remote lock, variable intermittent wipers, one-touch windows, Alarm, Immobilizer etc.). The interior is pleasant looking and functional, if some of the plastic (especially in the doors) is rather cheap feeling. It's also a very roomy car... not quite as much as a Camry, but more than adequate for a family of four. (It's got the same interior dimensions as a Mazda 6). On the highway, at speed, the car is quiet and well mannered and will return 32-34 mpg all day long. However on hard acceleration the engine and CVT transmission is loud and buzzy (definitely reminds you you're in an economy car). Power is also adequate for a family car, but won't set any records at the drag strip. Handling is confident and fun. In town, the mileage I've experienced is closer to the advertised 22 mpg, which is a bit disappointing. But all in all, this car puts a smile on my face every time I get in it. And you can't ask for more than Mistu's 5 year, 60,000 mile bumper to bumper, 100k powertrain warranty.
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