MITSUBISHI Lancer Hatchback 1988-1993 Photos, engines & full specs

Mitsubishi introduced the third generation of the Lancer in 1998, and it made it available in three bodywork versions: sedan, hatchback, and station wagon.

While the sedan was also produced and sold under different badges and made a successful carer, the hatchback was somehow overshadowed. Yet, it was a practical solution for those who needed a larger vehicle but didn't want a long-roof, classic station wagon. Moreover, the hatchback provided a lot of room in the luggage compartment and also ease of loading and unloading, thanks to the large tailgate.

The front fascia resembled the same look as its hatchback sibling, with a narrow grille flanked by wide headlights and underlined by the black trim from the bumper. However, its corner-mounted turn signals offered a unique styling design, with an ascending look for its rear edges. On the apron, Mitsubishi made room for pair of small scoops and a larger, lower mounted grille. At the back, the racked-forward D-pillar that supported the rear windscreen forced the carmaker to install a third side window behind the C-pillars. At the back, the taillights were big enough to be clearly seen from a long distance.

Inside, Mitsubishi tried to offer a decent cabin. It even installed an adjustable steering column for height and reach, which was not that common in the late '80s. The front bucket seats were slim and lower on the car's floor, but that led to smaller legroom for the rear passengers. Still, the split-folding bench was good enough to carry three children or two adults, but with some sacrifices for the knee room.

Under the hood, Mitsubishi relied on a small engine range that offered between 60 hp and 136 hp, depending on the version.