Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

Source - Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi Motors Releases Exterior Image of Lancer Evolution

Mitsubishi Motors in Japan revealed an exterior image of the production version of the Lancer Evolution high performance sedan. The image, released in conjunction with a financial results announcement, reveals the subtle exterior details of the forthcoming production model, whose styling direction was first suggested with Concept X (2005 Tokyo Motor Show) and later reinforced with Prototype X (2007 NAIAS). The soon-to-market Lancer Evolution represents the zenith of the Lancer badge's performance development; a rally racing story that began over 30 years ago in the deserts of the Safari Rally, later saw dominance on the WRC stage in the 1990's, and now combines the lessons from competition with high technology to bring an enthusiasts' hero to the streets.

The development concept for the all-new Lancer Evolution¹ specifies a 'next-generation high-performance 4WD global sedan that allows all levels of driver to enjoy the car's speed and handling with ease and in safety'. The new model features Mitsubishi's S-AWC² traction and handling system. This advanced all-wheel-drive system integrates a superior level of drive torque distribution and braking management, making this the best handling Lancer Evolution vehicle of the series. This technology when mated to the new, more rigid Lancer platform results in a Lancer Evolution that is highly responsive, offering intuitive handling and a greater degree of control in addition to outstanding vehicle attitude stability. Other examples of Mitsubishi Motors' latest automotive technology to be featured in the new model include a new lightweight, high-performance 2.0-liter turbocharged MIVEC3 engine with aluminum cylinder block and a 6-speed automated manual transmission that contributes to vehicle's exceptional performance while offering improved fuel economy.

Expect the all-new Lancer Evolution sedan will go on sale in North America in the first quarter of 2008.

Source - Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation announces today that it will launch the Lancer Evolution X high-performance 4WD sedan, newest of the company's legendary vehicles, on October 1 at dealerships throughout Japan. Featuring a new platform, engine, and exterior and interior designs, the totally redesigned 2.0-liter model will carry a tax-inclusive price tag ranging from 2,997,750 to 3,750,600. Models fitted with the Twin Clutch SST transmission are due to be launched towards the end of November.

The development goal for the new Lancer Evolution X was to make the car as fast as possible, while also making it as safe to drive as possible. To that end Lancer Evolution X is loaded with the very latest in automotive engineering technology, including the S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) vehicle dynamics control system and the newly developed, power-efficient Twin Clutch SST (Sport Shift Transmission). Lancer Evolution X is a new-generation high-performance 4WD sedan that allows a new category of driver access to Mitsubishi's dynamic driving experience by underpinning speed with control, security and safety.

Lancer Evolution X's handsome and aggressive functional design presents an intimidating and exciting aerodynamic exterior suggestive of its superior road performance. This is complemented by a functional interior that encourages the driver to concentrate fully on piloting his machine. Lancer Evolution X uses the front end design identity common to all new Mitsubishi Motors sedans (inverted-slant nose with a trapezoidal grille design) first seen on the new Galant Fortis*. As well as shouting loud the aggressive qualities that mark a high performance sports sedan, the front fascia is crafted for optimum aerodynamic performance.

Lancer Evolution X realizes very high levels of motive and driving performance thanks to its new high-output and lightweight 2.0-liter DOHC MIVEC turbocharged engine with aluminum block, an all-new body and stiffer suspension. Despite its turbocharged pedigree the new model earns a 3-star rating for emissions that are 50% lower than the requirements of the Japanese 2005 standards. And complementing its powerful and clean road performance is the kind of a safety specification one would expect of a new-generation high-performance model: SRS dual-stage airbags for driver and front passenger, SRS knee airbag for driver and adaptive front lighting system (AFS) are all standard equipment on the GSR trim level.

The Twin Clutch SST is a 6-speed automated manual transmission incorporating a dual automated clutch system to deliver lightning-fast, slick shifting for feel-good acceleration; while it also provides high-efficiency power transmission for outstanding fuel economy. In keeping with the higher output and torque developed by the new engine, Lancer Evolution X is offered with a new 5-speed manual transmission that delivers smoother shifting and improved shift feel for those who prefer the joys and more direct control of manual shifting.

All Lancer Evolution X GSR models are fitted with the S-AWC vehicle dynamics control system. The system intelligently manages several component systems to regulate drive torque and braking force at each wheel, reading and reflecting driver intent in real time over a wide range of situations. This allows drivers of all abilities to enjoy sporty driving with peace of mind.

* Lancer / Lancer EX in overseas markets.

1. Model lineup

Sporting the S-AWC and Twin Clutch SST and other cutting-edge automotive technology as well as a more comprehensive functional and convenience equipment specification, the GSR trim level (also available with a 5-speed manual transmission) leads the new Lancer Evolution X lineup. The lineup also continues to offer the RS competition base model, with a less comprehensive and simplified equipment specification to reduce weight to a minimum.

To meet customers' wide-ranging expectations in a high-performance sports sedan, the GSR trim level is available with the following option packages:

# High Performance Package : Raises the bar a notch further in terms of driving performance.

# Stylish Exterior Package : Adds classy dressup elements to the exterior.

# Leather Combination Interior : For a more uptown and comfortable interior.

Also available is the Premium Package that combines all these packages and adds 18-inch BBS lightweight alloy wheels to meld the ultimate in performance with a classy and quality appearance.

2. Exterior

The exterior is crafted with sophisticated and aggressive styling to give the low-and-wide squat stance body an aerodynamically clean profile that flows liquidly from the inverted-slant nose over the roof to the tail end, using wind-tunnel proven aero parts.

Molded around the inverted-slant nose and trapezoidal grille, the aggressive and powerful front fascia features larger air intake openings and new ducting for superior engine cooling and aerodynamics and leaves no doubt as to Lancer Evolution X's high performance.

The engine hood air outlet and fender vents effectively exhaust heat from the engine compartment. Together with the engine hood air scoop that supplies cooling air to the turbocharger these elements give vivid accent to Evolution X's exterior looks.

The oversize rear spoiler — standard on the GSR — uses a twisted-section wing panel with different attack angles at its ends and in the center portion to match the airflow over the body surface.

A large undercover rectifies underbody airflow for better aerodynamics and also improves drivetrain cooling. The underside of the rear bumper employs a diffuser design that helps to exhaust the underbody airflow more effectively and also adds a distinguishing touch to the rear view.

The Stylish Exterior Package option uses a chrome finish for the front grille lattice and beltline molding, body color-keyed fender vents and adds fog lamps to give the exterior a touch of uptown elegance.

The GSR trim level is offered in a lineup of five body colors designed to strongly project a functionally aesthetic image and including a vividly sporty Red Metallic and a new classy and deep-hue Phantom Black Pearl. RS is offered in two body colors, including White Solid which is exclusive to this trim level.

3. Interior

The interior design places emphasis on functional and operational elements to encourage and allow the driver to concentrate on operating his machine while at the same time realizing levels of comfort and quality that expected in a new-generation sports sedan.

Seats are done by Recaro — well-known for providing excellent location, hold, and for alleviating fatigue on longer journeys — with a new full bucket front seat design. The new seats offer additional safety, accommodating the factory-fitted optional SRS side airbag; and comfort, with improved seating feeling, easier exit and entry and a less 'constraining' feeling. The rear seats feature a central armrest with handy cup holders.

Lancer Evolution X uses a small diameter steering wheel designed for smooth operation; its genuine leather wrap provides a positive and comfortable fitment to the hand. For optimum operability the S-AWC mode selector is located on the left spoke. (The selector is located on the shift lever panel on models with the factory-fitted MMCS HDD navigation system option, in which case the steering wheel spokes are used to locate the remote audio controls.)

Lancer Evolution X uses a high-contrast instrumentation cluster providing excellent viewability. A Multi-information Display provides the driver with at-a-glance vehicle status information, including: fuel remaining, Twin Clutch SST mode, and S-AWC operating mode.

The dashboard uses a bowed design with the center panel offset toward the driver that provides more knee space and realizes a functional and comfortable cockpit environment for the driver.

The black interior color scheme uses silver accents on the steering wheel spokes, shift lever panel and other operating controls to impart a look that is sporty and also evoke the feeling of a precision instrument.

The Leather Combination Interior package uses leather combination seat upholstery (genuine leather with Glanluxe*1), doors and floor console lid trimmed in soft synthetic leather and aluminum front scuff plates. The package also boosts sound insulation, making for a classier and more comfortable interior.

*1: An artificial suede-finish leather made by Seiren Co., Ltd.

4. Powertrain

Engine

Lancer Evolution X is powered by a new turbocharged engine that adds a high-performance turbocharger to the 4B11-type 2.0-liter 4-cylinder 16-valve DOHC MIVEC unit used in the Galant Fortis. Developing more power over the full rev range, this engine generates more torque at 422 Nm (43.0 kg-m)/3500 rpm and has better response than its 4G63 predecessor. The new engine is also lighter and returns better environmental performance.

The application of continuously variable valve timing technology (MIVEC) to both intake and exhaust camshafts realizes valve timing optimally matched to engine speed and load to stabilize combustion characteristics and allow the engine to develop more power over the full rev range. It also improves emissions performance. Lancer Evolution X earns a 3-star rating for emissions that are 50% under the Japanese 2005 Emissions Standards levels.

The new engine, excluding auxiliary equipment, is 12 kg lighter than the 4G63 thanks to the use of a die-cast aluminum cylinder block, head cover and chain case.

Using a titanium-aluminum alloy turbine wheel and aluminum alloy compressor wheel, the turbocharger features a shape-optimized compressor wheel that improves boost response and increases low-end and mid-range torque.

The adoption of a rearward facing exhaust manifold layout has, as well as improving exhaust efficiency, allowed the engine to be mounted lower, lowering the center of gravity. Other innovations have reduced intake/exhaust system losses and valvetrain friction, contributing to improved engine performance.

Transmissions

The GSR is available with the new Twin Clutch SST 6-speed automated manual transmission that eliminates the need for a clutch pedal and provides slick, smooth shifting. Twin Clutch SST puts odd (1st, 3rd, 5th) and even (2nd, 4th and 6th) gears on separate input shafts each with its own clutch and, through tight cooperative control with the engine, switches between these clutches to realize seamless and lightning-fast shifting for feel-good acceleration. Because it uses clutches rather than a torque converter to transmit power, Twin Clutch SST allows superior power transmission efficiency with little loss of motive power and returns excellent fuel economy. Twin Clutch SST allows the driver to choose between Autoshift fully automatic shifting and Manual Shift, where the driver can change gears as with a manual transmission. A toggle switch located at the base of the shift selector allows the driver to choose between Normal, Sport and Super Sport modes for the optimum shift scheduling for a wide variety of situations ranging from driving around town to tracing a tight line on a winding road.

Twin Clutch SST models are fitted as standard with steering column-mounted lightweight magnesium paddle shifters that allow the driver to shift manually without taking his hand off the steering wheel.

For drivers who enjoy having more direct control over their machine, the GSR is available with a new 5-speed manual transmission. (The RS is only available with this manual gearbox.) Benefiting from the know-how Mitsubishi Motors has accumulated in the motorsport arena the new manual gearbox features a greater torque capacity to handle the higher torque generated by the new turbocharged engine without growing in size. First to fourth gears use close ratios. 1st gear uses a lower ratio than previously for better standing acceleration while 5th gear uses a higher ratio for more comfortable high-speed cruising. The new transmission uses multi-cone synchronizer rings on all gears for smoother shifting and a more positive shift feel as well as for improved durability.

5. Chassis

Body

Lancer Evolution X's new platform achieves significant increases in body stiffness, with gains in torsional and flexural stiffness of 40% and 60% respectively over Lancer Evolution IX MR. This results in better handling stability and crashworthiness, as well as in improved ride and in reduced vibration and noise, to realize levels of quality and comfort that befit a new-generation sports sedan.

Lancer Evolution X's wider track and longer wheelbase not only create a more spacious living space but also bring improved stability and ride. Other factors contributing to the new model's improved handling include its lower center of gravity stemming from the lower powertrain, and better front/rear weight distribution resulting from the lower engine weight, a front overhang that is 20 mm shorter than on the Lancer Evolution IX MR, and the transfer of the battery to the trunk.

To reduce weight and lower the center of gravity, aluminum is used in the roof panel, front fenders and the rear spoiler frame structure.

Suspension & tires

While based on the MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension arrangement used on previous models in the series, Lancer Evolution X features a revamped suspension layout with wider tracks and 18-inch tires. Geometry optimization and greater stiffness in the mountings maximizes the contact patch and allows S-AWC to perform to its full potential as well as bringing improved straight line stability, cornering and ride.

GSR comes standard with 245/40R18 wide and low-aspect tires on 18-inch Enkei 12-spoke high-rigidity cast alloy wheels. 18-inch BBS lightweight alloy wheels are also available as a factory-fitted option for GSR and add a distinctive custom touch with a luster finish.

GSR comes standard with brembo 18-inch front and 17-inch rear ventilated disc brakes. The increased disc size improves stopping power and fade resistance as well as improving brake pedal feel.

The factory-fitted High Performance Package comprises the Bilstein single tube shock absorbers and Eibach coil springs used on Lancer Evolution IX MR. It also includes brembo 2-piece disc brakes that realize a saving of 1.3 kg at each wheel and high performance tires with stiffer walls and better grip. This package brings further improvements in grip, steering response, stability and cornering.

4WD system (S-AWC)

The GSR trim level comes with Mitsubishi Motors' own 4WD vehicle dynamics control system S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) standard. For Lancer Evolution X, Active Stability Control (ASC) has been added to the ACD*2, AYC*3 and Sport ABS*4 component systems featured in previous Lancer Evolution. S-AWC uses integrated management of these systems to exert high-precision control on drive torque and brake force at each wheel to enhance cornering and stability under all conditions from everyday driving to emergency evasion; thereby producing vehicle behavior that faithfully reflects driver intent. S-AWC offers three operating modes — TARMAC for dry, paved surfaces; GRAVEL for wet or unmade surfaces, and SNOW for snow covered surfaces — allowing the driver to select the mode best suited to current road surface conditions and realize greater stability.

*2: ACD (Active Center Differential)

The Active Center Differential uses an electronically-controlled hydraulic multi-plate clutch to optimize front/rear wheel torque split and thereby produce the best balance between traction and steering response.

*3: AYC (Active Yaw Control)

AYC uses a torque transfer mechanism in the rear differential to control rear wheel torque differential for different driving conditions and so limit the yaw moment that acts on the vehicle body and thus enhance cornering performance. AYC now features yaw rate feedback control using a yaw rate sensor to more accurately determine the cornering dynamics on a real-time basis. And the addition of braking force control allows the system to realize vehicle behavior that more closely mirrors driver intent. Posted on conceptcarz.com.

*4: Sport ABS (Sport Anti-lock Brake System)

ABS allows the driver to maintain directional control and keeps the vehicle stable by preventing the wheels from locking under heavy braking or when braking on slippery surfaces. The addition of yaw rate sensors and brake pressure sensors to the Sport ABS system has improved braking performance through corners.

*5: Active Stability Control (ASC)

The ASC system stabilizes vehicle attitude while maintaining optimum traction by regulating engine power and the braking force at each wheel. ASC elevates vehicle stability by suppressing skidding in an emergency evasion maneuver or as the result of other sudden steering inputs. It also improves traction under acceleration by preventing the driving wheels from spinning on slippery surfaces.

6. Peace of mind / Safety specifications

Standard on GSR are driver and front passenger SRS dual-stage airbags (driver dual-stage airbag standard on RS), the inflation pressure of which is controlled to match the severity of the impact, and the driver SRS knee airbag used on the Delica D:5 and Galant Fortis. SRS side and curtain airbags are available as factory-fitted options.

GSR comes standard with discharge headlights and the adaptive front lighting system (AFS), in which auxiliary lights turn in the same direction as the steering wheel to increase the area of road illuminated and improve driver visibility at night.

Rain-sensitive auto wipers that adjust wipe speed and interval to rain intensity and auto light control that monitors the intensity of peripheral light, turning the headlights on or off accordingly, are factory-fitted options on the GSR.

All models come standard with an engine immobilizer and security alarm to deter theft. (The security alarm is standard on the GSR only.)

7. Audio / Utility

The GSR trim level is available with the Mitsubishi Motors Communication System (MMCS) as a factory-fitted option which comprises a 30Gb hard disk drive audio/navigation system with 7-inch LCD screen.

Available as a factory-fitted option on the GSR is the Rockford Fosgate premium sound system — well received on the Outlander and other models. The system uses a 650-Watt amplifier and nine speakers to deliver awesome high-fidelity sound assisted by the use of acoustic and damping material to seal off openings inside the doors and turn them into speaker boxes.

Available as a factory-fitted option on the GSR is a keyless operating system that allows the driver to lock or unlock the doors and to start or stop the engine without having to take the remote unit out of pocket or handbag.

Standard on all models is the Mitsubishi Motors ETACS (Electric Time and Alarm Control System) system. The system controls the operating environment for the Comfort Flasher — a dab on the flasher stalk causes the turn signal to flash three times; very handy when changing lanes — and the headlight auto-off feature which prevents accidental drainage of the battery and other electronic systems fitted to Lancer Evolution X.
The Mitsubishi Lancer was first introduced in 1973, and since that time more than six million examples have been sold. It has carried many different names, sold by different manufacturers, and come in different shapes and sizes. Since the cars inception, it has proven to be a solid competitor in rally competition. It has been a very versatile, and capable automobile.

When first introduced, it joined Mitsubishi's other models which included the Galant, their compact car, and the Minica kei car. The Lancer fell into ranks between these two models, serving as the company's lower-to-middle class vehicle. When introduced, it was offered in twelve different trim levels, included the base 1.2-liter sedan, and ranging towards the rally-prepared 1600 GSR. Two bodystyles were offered, the 2-door coupe and the 4-door sedan. There was also a five-door station wagon, but the production levels on this never reached very high. A hatchback was added in 1975, called the Mitsubishi Lancer Celeste and offered with either a 1.4- or 1.6-liter engine. A 2.0-liter unit was later added.

The second generation of the Mitsubishi Lancer was introduced in 1978 and remained in production until 1983. The only bodystyle offered was the four-door sedan; two engine sizes were available, a 1.4- and 1.8-liter four-cylinder unit. The big news for this generation was the addition of the Lancer EX, which brought with it a turbocharger for the 1.8-liter engine.

In 1982 the next generation of the Lancer was introduced. A new model was launched, dubbed the lancer Fiore and based on the Mitsubishi Mirage. This generation of the Lancer was offered in a 3-door hatchback, 4-door sedan, 5-door hatchback, and five-door station wagon. The 1.6- and 1.8-liter engines were still available. A diesel version was introduced, and fuel injected and turbocharged versions were offered.

The station wagon was added in 1985, and it was followed quickly by a four-wheel drive version.

In 1988 the next iteration of the Lancer began, and would persist until 1992. The design changed; the car became less boxy, and more aerodynamic in appearance and principle. The edges became more round and modern. The shape followed the design of the Galant.

By now, the Lancer name was being shared with the Dodge Lancer, which was being sold in the United States by Chrysler Group. In Japan, the model was known as the Mirage Aspire.

This generation of the Lancer was sold as a 3-door hatchback, four-door sedan, and 5-door hatchback. Front and four-wheel drive was available.

In 1991, the differences between the Mirage and the Lancer became even greater, though both were still built on the same platform. In the North American market, the Lancer was sold as the Eagle Summit.

A V6 engine, which displaced just 1.6-liters, was introduced and powered the Mirage, along with other Mitsubishi cars. It would even become the power source for one of the HSR Concept vehicles. This V6 engine was the smallest mass-produced V6, a title it retains to this day. Other engine options included a 1.3, 1.5, 1.8, and 1.6-liter four-cylinder engines. The 1.3 and 1.5-liter versions were SOHC while the rest were DOHC. The 1.8 was created in both SOHC and DOHC fashion. The standard gearbox was the five-speed manual, with the four-speed automatic being sold as optional equipment.

The big news was the Lancer GSR, which had a high-performance turbocharged engine and would form the groundwork for the Lancer Evolution, commonly known as the Lancer Evo, which began in September of 1993. The Evo used the drivetrain of the Galant VR-4 rally car, and would soon prove its potential as a high performance competition machine.

All of the Lancer Evolutions has shared a two-liter, turbocharged engine and four-wheel drive system. The Evolutions, prior to version V, are the officially-approved models for Mitsubishi's efforts in the World Rally Championship's Group A class and SCCA Pro Rally Championship. The cars are built on the same platform as the other Lancers, but given many performance upgrades and mechanical improvements.

Lancer Evolutions continue to race in Group A and Group N classes.

The seventh generation of the Lancer was introduced in 1995 and produced until 2000. It continued the Lancers successful formula of enjoying strong sales throughout the world. In Japan, the name for the sedan and wagon continued as the Libero; related Mirage models were still available. The Coupe was known as the Mirage Asti in Japan, and the Lancer Coupe in the rest of the world.

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution V is the only Mitsubishi to earn the WRC Constructors Championship for its marque. Tommi Makinen has claimed four WRC Drivers Championships, from 1996 through 2000, in a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (IV, V & VI). Makinen has driven Mitsubishi's in most of his WRC career. The exception being a Ford Escort RS Cosworth in 1994 and a Subaru Impreza WRC in 2002.

The eight generation of the Lancer was introduced in 2000 in Japan. Most of the other markets continued with the seventh generation. The 8th gen Lancer was available in a four-door sedan configuration or as a station wagon.

Styling changes for the Lancer occurred in 2004 and 2005 for the North American market. The grille was given more fins so it was closer in design to the American version of the Galant. The facia was changed slightly again in 2006.

The Sportback and Ralliart were introduced to the US in 2004. Both of these trim levels brought more equipped and bigger engines. The Sportback has a 160 horsepower engine and the Ralliart was just a little higher, at 162. For both, the suspension had been improved, resulting in better handling and performance. The cars were lowered and 16-inch alloy wheels could now be found on all four corners. Aerodynamic ground package, fog lamps, and front bucket seats completed the ensemble. The Ralliart was given clear rear tail lights and a rear deck spoiler, which did little except enhance the cars appearance. All Sportbacks were equipped with an INVECS-II automatic gearbox. The Ralliart had the five-speed manual as standard and the four-speed automatic as optional.

Slow sales and financial difficulties for Mitsubishi had the Sportback canceled after just one year.

The Mitsubishi Concept X was unveiled to the public at the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show; Concept-Sportback was shown a little while later at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The new lancer drew its design inspiration from both of these concepts, which was officially unveiled at the 2007 Detroit Motor Show. Sales for this generation of vehicle went on sale in the US in March of 2007. it is available as a four-door sedan.