Mitsubishi LANCER
20,457 registered in New Zealand · 1976–2019 · 97% from Japan
The Mitsubishi LANCER is a well-established model on New Zealand roads, with 20,457 registered across model years 1976 to 2019. It averages 8 L/100km in fuel consumption and produces an average of 104 kW. Most are petrol-powered saloons with a 2.0L engine.
Below you'll find a complete breakdown of fuel types, body styles, drivetrain options, regional distribution, and estimated running costs. Select a specific model year to see detailed specs, buyer insights, and variant-level data for that generation of the LANCER.
Fuel Types
Mitsubishi LANCER fuel type breakdown: PETROL 100%, DIESEL 0%.
Fleet Age Profile
How many Mitsubishi LANCER vehicles from each manufacture year are still registered in NZ. Taller bars mean more of that year on the road — better parts availability and more mechanics who know it.
Mitsubishi LANCER fleet age profile: 2014: 1,449, 2015: 1,113, 2016: 918, 2017: 778, 2018: 365.
Drivetrain
Transmission
Mitsubishi LANCER transmissions: CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE 38%, 4-GEAR AUTO 14%, 5-GEAR MANUAL 10%, 6-GEAR AUTO 3%, 6-GEAR MANUAL 0%.
Engine Size
Mitsubishi LANCER engine sizes: 2.0L 41%, 2.0L 10%, 1.8L 9%, 2.0L 8%, 1.5L 6%.
Imported From
Mitsubishi LANCER imported from: Japan 97%, Not Known 2%, Other 1%, Australia 0%, New Zealand 0%.
When They Arrived in NZ
When Mitsubishi LANCER vehicles were first registered in New Zealand — showing import waves and buying trends.
Mitsubishi LANCER NZ arrival timeline: 2022: 158, 2023: 83, 2024: 76, 2025: 31, 2026: 7.
Estimated Running Costs
Select a model year to estimate fuel costs for that specific Mitsubishi LANCER.
Colours
Colours shown are approximate representations of NZTA basic colour categories, not exact manufacturer paint codes.
Where They Are in NZ
Mitsubishi LANCER regional distribution: AUCKLAND: 5,154, CHRISTCHURCH: 1,261, HAMILTON: 880, WELLINGTON: 668, TAURANGA: 622.
Body Types
Similar Cars
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Mitsubishi LANCER are there in New Zealand?
There are 20,457 Mitsubishi LANCER vehicles registered in New Zealand as of March 2026, making up 0.6% of the total passenger fleet. Model years range from 1976 to 2019. A large fleet means parts are widely available and mechanics are familiar with this model.
How much does it cost to run a Mitsubishi LANCER?
Based on NZTA fuel economy data, the Mitsubishi LANCER averages 8 L/100km. At current fuel prices ($3.41/L), that works out to roughly $63 per week or $3,274 per year in fuel, assuming 12,000 km of annual driving. Actual costs vary by model year, driving conditions, and fuel type.
What body type is the Mitsubishi LANCER?
The Mitsubishi LANCER is primarily classified as a saloon in the NZTA fleet register. It is also available in other body configurations: hatchback, station wagon, sports car. The most common fuel type is petrol.
Are Mitsubishi LANCER cars imported or NZ-new?
97% of Mitsubishi LANCER vehicles in New Zealand originated from Japan. The majority arrived as used imports, which is typical for this model. Check the import status and origin country for the specific year you're considering on the individual year pages.