The MITSUBISHI LANCER (2004-08) 5DR ESTATE 1.6 ELEGANCE is a compact family estate: a practical alternative to a hatchback, with extra room for luggage without the bulk of a large SUV. In the UK used-car market, it sits among affordable, less common Japanese family cars. Mycarcheck.com recorded 76 checks covering 51 different cars, giving a useful snapshot rather than a full reliability verdict. The average private-sale value was £700, with recorded mileage averaging 96,000 and annual use around 4,000 miles. Cars had about 2.4 previous keepers on average, suggesting many have changed hands a few times. This Lancer estate suits commuters, couples and families wanting a car with carrying space for shopping, pets or trips. The 1.6 Elegance offers sensible transport rather than sporty performance or premium-car polish. Compared with estate rivals, its appeal is value and practicality; check history and condition, as age and upkeep matter more than averages.