Martin is looking to upgrade from his Mitsubishi Colt and because of his previous positive experiences with the Mitsubishi brand is eyeing the Lancer as a possible replacement.
"Before retiring I owned a Mitsubishi V3000 and loved it, hence the bias toward the brand," says Martin.
The one doubt in his mind regarding the Lancer is that he has not seen any recent media comment on the vehicle. The budget: $33,000
One of the reasons you haven't heard too much about the Lancer is because it has been around so long - and I don't mean that in a negative way.
Most of the Japanese brands have a life cycle of about five years, but the Lancer has been in production an awful lot longer than that.
It still provides a solid, if not exciting, all-round package, however, and sells on price rather than class-leading specification levels.
Some would sum the car up by saying it is "dated".
Mitsubishi NZ has done a good job of refreshing the car over the years in an effort to retain its appeal. As a motoring company it has almost reinvented itself in recent years with a big emphasis on improving its model range.
It's an old campaigner that does fall behind in regards to the latest in technology, but it still offers the benefits of new car ownership at an affordable price.
Mitsubishi Lancer
Mitsubishi Lancer. Photo / Supplied
The GSR can be purchased as a hatch or sedan. Both are now being sold for $25,990.
A sports body kit and 16-inch alloy wheels help lift the exterior appeal and add to the value-for-money proposition.
The 2-litre engine has a claimed combined fuel consumption of 7.3L/100km. Interior features include touch-screen audio, Bluetooth, reversing camera and a leather-covered steering wheel.
Its safety package includes Electronic Stability Control and multiple airbags.
Kia Cerato EX
Kia Cerato. Photo / Stuart Munro
The EX is also available as a sedan or hatch and has daytime running lights, heated exterior mirrors, leather-bound steering wheel, front and rear parking sensors and a reversing camera.
The 1.8-litre engine has a claimed combined fuel consumption of around 7.5L/100km. The EX comes standard with an extensive safety package, and is being advertised with a special retail price of $30,590.
Mazda3 GSX
Mazda3 GSX. Photo / John Borren.
The Mazda3 sets the benchmark in this market segment if winning over the motoring press is any indication.
At $35,595, it's more expensive than the other options listed, but it's worth visiting a Mazda showroom to compare.
Driven recommends
After all these years, the Lancer is still an attractive option but don't buy on price alone. However, if it still ticks all your boxes then why not.
