Segment:
Performance Sedan / Rally Homologation Special
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, performance drivers, rally participants, dedicated DIY mechanics
Key Competitors:
Subaru WRX STI, Ford Focus RS, Honda Civic Type R (in spirit, though different classes)
Rally Heritage:
Direct descendant of the World Rally Championship Lancer Evolution series
Performance Focus:
Designed for high-performance driving and track capability
AWD System:
Advanced Mitsubishi All-Wheel Control (AWC) system with Active Center Differential (ACD) and Active Yaw Control (AYC)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection system, starting system, charging system, sensor diagnostics, ECU (Engine Control Unit) operation
Transmission:
Manual transmission (6-speed), clutch system, driveline, transfer case, rear differential, driveline components
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (Brembo on many models), hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), parking brake, rotor and pad replacement
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, tie rods, steering rack, alignment
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, power windows, power locks, mirrors, audio system, HVAC controls, body control module (BCM)
Body And Chassis:
Body construction, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, interior trim, chassis components, corrosion protection
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system diagnostics and repair
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel injectors, EVAP system
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement intervals, belt inspections
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical diagnostics
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment
Rebuilding:
Detailed procedures for engine and transmission rebuilds
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, alignment settings
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including diagnostics and component-level repair.
Engine Type:
2.0L DOHC 16-valve turbocharged inline-4
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Horsepower Usdm:
276 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque Usdm:
286 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) with electronic control
Fuel Type:
Unleaded premium gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Turbocharger:
Mitsu TD05H-16G turbocharger with intercooler
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 liters (4.8 US quarts) with filter change
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, ACEA A2/A3, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific climate recommendations)
Transmission Type:
6-speed manual transmission
Transmission Type:
None (only manual offered)
Awc System:
Active Center Differential (ACD), Active Yaw Control (AYC) on rear differential
Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 2.2 liters (2.3 US quarts) GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 (refer to manual for specific recommendations)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not officially rated in all markets, but generally considered robust.
IIHS Side Impact:
Not officially rated in all markets.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Active Traction Control (TCL)
Electronic Stability:
Standard Active Stability Control (ASC) (often integrated with AWC)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side airbags (optional or standard depending on market)
Seatbelts:
3-point ELR seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Structure:
Reinforced chassis and safety cell construction
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe use may require more frequent changes)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (iridium type)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles or 7 years (critical component, consult manual for specific procedure)
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (MS-97641) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 compatible (refer to manual)
Engine Reliability:
Generally robust 4G63T, but susceptible to issues from aggressive modification, poor maintenance, or oil starvation. Check for rod knock.
Turbocharger:
Turbocharger can develop issues if oil is not changed regularly or if oil feed/return lines become clogged.
Clutch Wear:
Clutch can wear prematurely with aggressive driving or track use.
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber suspension bushings can degrade over time, leading to less precise handling.
Rust Corrosion:
Subframes, sills, and wheel wells are common areas for rust, especially in areas with road salt.
Heritage:
Mitsubishi Motors has a long history in motorsport, particularly in rallying with the Lancer Evolution lineage.
Evolution Series:
The Lancer Evolution VIII is the eighth generation of Mitsubishi's iconic performance car, building upon decades of rally-bred technology and development.
Key Changes From Evo Vii:
Updated ACD, revised AYC, new 6-speed transmission, improved suspension geometry, and engine tuning.
Production Years:
2003-2005
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (Mizushima Plant)