Ratings on the 03 Lancer ES???

I'm carshopping and I found a 03 Lancer, but I'm wondering how well they ride, how much maintenance is required, gas mileage, etc. from a drivers perspective, not the car salesman. So, anyone own a Lancer? What do you think of it? Thanks for your time.
~Truth Seeker~

I own a 2002 oz. but with my experience its not quick or slow for a sedan. the gas milage is great and i have had mine only for about 1000 miles and got it with 90k on it and when i bough it changed all the regular stuff and its still kicking great. I also love the handling it is just soo smooth to me but the real only other thing i drive is my TA and thos handel ok. only thing is you feel everything and with the lancer you dont feel half of the shit and bumps on the road.

im also in the market to buy an 03 es. im intrested in taking it out to dirt roads and messing with rally style. is this a good car to do it in and what will it take to get it there? and its an AT