My current ride is a 2003 Lancer MX.
Mileage is 72k. No problems whatsoever with the CVT. Its very durable.
I drove it roughly, shifting up at 6k rpm when driving up to Baguio.
I also frequently shift neutral, when coasting, then shift to drive again when I want to accelerate. CVT still shifts like when its new.
About road noise, yes, its the tires. Our tires are low profile ones hence more noise transmitted. Change to more expensive tires = lower noise. But I'd rather get cheaper ones...better on the pocket.
Sound system is also nice. Nicer than that of the Altis.
I'd like to debunk about the post that Altis is bigger than the Lancer.
Altis
Length (mm) 4530
Width (mm) 1705
Height (mm) 1500
Lancer
Length (mm) 4535
Width (mm) 1695
Height (mm) 1445
You really won't notice it inside.
Lancer is really a cruiser, on long drive (taking advantage of that "6th" gear) will warrant you a good fuel economy. Around 15 - 17km/l.
City driving will always depend on traffic, so no sense comparing that. All similar engined cars will drink the same fuel when stuck in traffic.
What I like most about the Lancer is
1. Stereo = Top of the line pioneer (You get an LCD version if your lucky)
2. Very strong body, na bangga na ako ilang times, paint damage lng sa bumper.
3. Doors closing sounds solid. Parang Benz.
All in all, its a good buy. Since you're buying a 2nd hand car anyway...if you sell it as 3rd hand...Altis vs Lancer 3rd hand price difference would be around 3k -5k lng naman. Small change lng yan.