Segment:
Performance Sedan / Rally-inspired Sports Car
Reputation:
Iconic performance vehicle known for its rally heritage and AWD capabilities.
Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Focus RS, Lancia Delta Integrale (historical context).
Performance Highlights:
Powerful turbocharged engine, advanced AWD system (ACD/AYC), stiff chassis, performance-oriented suspension.
Rally Heritage:
Direct lineage from Mitsubishi's WRC success, offering a street-legal rally experience.
Documentation Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Content Scope:
Comprehensive, including diagnostics, maintenance, repair, and specifications.
Type:
Official Factory Service Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine (4G63T MIVEC, turbocharger, fuel injection, ignition), Transmission (manual, automatic - if applicable), Drivetrain (AWD system, ACD, AYC), Clutch.
Chassis:
Suspension (front/rear McPherson strut, multi-link), Steering (power steering), Brakes (ABS, EBD, performance brakes).
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, ECUs, sensors, lighting, instrumentation, audio system, power windows, central locking.
Body:
Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system, body sealing.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and changes, belt inspections.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II troubleshooting, error code interpretation, component testing, sensor diagnosis.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service, electrical component repair, body panel replacement.
Installation:
Component replacement (e.g., turbocharger, injectors, clutch), accessory installation guidance.
Level:
Advanced diagnostics, full component overhaul, torque specifications, wiring schematics, system testing procedures.
Engine Type:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged with intercooler.
Engine Code:
4G63T (MIVEC version)
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1997 cc)
Horsepower:
271 hp @ 6500 rpm (USDM GSR/MR)
Torque:
273 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (USDM GSR/MR)
Induction:
Turbocharged, Intercooled
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91+ octane recommended)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Valve Train:
DOHC with MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control system)
Turbocharger Model:
Mitsubishi TD05H-16G (or similar variants)
Type:
6-Speed Manual (Getrag Aisin)
Type:
5-Speed Automatic (less common, often found on non-performance variants or specific markets)
AWD System:
Full-time Four-Wheel Drive with Active Center Differential (ACD) and Active Yaw Control (AYC - on MR models)
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed within the manual for each gear.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen GL-5 SAE 75W-90 (or equivalent)
Transfer Case Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific type (often GL-4 or GL-5).
Rear Differential Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific type (often GL-5).
Length:
Approx. 4490 mm (176.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 1770 mm (69.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1415 mm (55.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2625 mm (103.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1400-1500 kg (3086-3307 lbs) depending on trim and options.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle placard.
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 10.8 cu ft (subject to regional variations).
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
Not consistently rated for all trims/years in all markets. Consult specific regional data.
IIHS Crash Test Performance:
Varies by test and year. Generally good for its era, but not always top-tier compared to modern vehicles.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
AWD Acd:
Active Center Differential for optimal torque distribution.
Ayc:
Active Yaw Control (standard on MR, available on others) for enhanced cornering stability.
Airbags:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), side airbags (optional/market dependent).
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seatbelts.
Chassis Construction:
Reinforced chassis structure designed for performance and safety.
Audio System:
Stock Mitsubishi audio system with CD player, AM/FM radio. Higher trims may have premium sound systems (e.g., Rockford Fosgate).
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system on some higher trims.
Traction Control:
Integrated into the AWD and AYC systems.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Bluetooth:
Not standard; typically an aftermarket addition.
Usb Ports:
Not standard; typically an aftermarket addition.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe driving conditions recommended for performance cars).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on spark plug type (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years (critical interval due to interference engine).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change (refer to manual for exact capacity).
Engine Oil Type:
5W-30 or 10W-30 Synthetic (API SN or higher, ACEA A3/B4 recommended).
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with OAT/HOAT technology).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Engine Reliability:
Generally robust 4G63T, but susceptible to issues from improper maintenance, overheating, or extreme abuse (e.g., turbo failure, ringland failure).
Transmission Wear:
Manual transmissions can experience clutch wear and synchro issues with hard use. ACD and AYC systems can require specialized maintenance.
Suspension Components:
Bushings and ball joints can wear over time, especially with aggressive driving.
Electrical Gremlins:
Can occur with age, but typically manageable with proper diagnostic procedures.
Motorsport Legacy:
Mitsubishi has a strong history in World Rally Championship (WRC) with Lancer Evolution models, winning multiple championships.
Generations:
The Evo 8 is the eighth generation of the Lancer Evolution, building upon the success of its predecessors.
Key Variants Evo8:
GSR, RS, MR (GSR and MR were more common in North America).
Manufacturing Plant:
Mizushima Plant, Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan
Production Years:
2003-2005
Car And Driver 10Best:
Frequently cited as a benchmark for performance and handling in its class.
Sport Compact Car Of The Year:
Received numerous accolades from automotive publications for its performance capabilities.
Emissions Standards:
Complies with relevant emissions standards for its production year (e.g., EPA, Euro IV).