Mitsubishi Lancer EX production to end in 2017, continue as Fortis

The Mitsubishi Lancer has been in production for 43 years, with the current generation soldiering on for almost a decade. That’s how big a memory it is going to be after this August. Yes, the iconic Lancer is on its way out with no replacement in sight. The depose of the popular sedan is due to Mitsubishi’s new strategy that involves just crossovers and SUVs.

The Mitsubishi Lancer has been offered as everything from a boring econobox to a fire-breathing road-going rally car. We had to wave bye, rather reluctantly, to the iconic Lancer Evolution a couple of years ago and now as Mitsubishi Motors North America’s executive vice president and chief operating officer, Don Swearingen confirms, the sedate model has also been shown the door.

The firing of the Lancer can be explained by the sales charts that have been registering a consistent decline in Lancer’s popularity over the years. And as Mitsubishi has tied up with Nissan recently, the need for a commuter car from the brand is not significant.

However, it may carry on with further facelifts in developing markets, as a new one seems to be due for 2017 in China, while the Taiwanese Mitsubishi Lancer Fortis facelift continues to be sold in Kuwait.