Market Position:
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI (Evo VI) represented the pinnacle of rally-inspired performance sedans in its era, positioned as a homologation special for WRC. It competed directly with iconic vehicles like the Subaru Impreza WRX STI.
Competitive Analysis:
Evo VI excelled in its advanced four-wheel-drive system (AYC/ACD), potent turbocharged engine, and robust chassis. Its direct competitors were predominantly the Subaru Impreza WRX STI of the same period, offering a similar blend of performance and motorsport pedigree.
Key Features:
Iconic 4G63T engine, advanced Active Yaw Control (AYC) and optional Active Center Differential (ACD), rally-bred suspension and chassis, aggressive aerodynamic styling, powerful braking system, homologation for Group A racing.
Coverage Areas:
Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Body, HVAC, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Specifications
Page Count:
Approximately 2000+
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM)
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Accessibility:
Instant download upon purchase, no impediments.
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel and emissions, cooling, lubrication, exhaust, manual transmission (5-speed), automatic transmission (optional, less common for Evo VI), transfer case, propeller shaft, rear differential, suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (front and rear discs, ABS), wheel alignment, chassis, body panels, doors, windows, exterior trim, interior trim, HVAC system, SRS airbags, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, diagnosis and testing procedures.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical system diagrams including engine management, chassis electricals, lighting, and optional accessories.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, scheduled maintenance intervals, engine overhaul (complete disassembly and reassembly), transmission repair and overhaul, differential service, suspension component replacement, brake system bleeding and component replacement, steering system repair, electrical troubleshooting and component testing, HVAC system diagnosis and repair, body panel alignment and repair, interior component removal and installation, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and resolution.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Extensive troubleshooting charts and diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults across all major vehicle systems.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers all aspects from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine, transmission, and chassis rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures, component specifications, torque values, and electrical schematics.
Configuration:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Horsepower Ps:
280 PS (276 hp) at 6500 RPM (JDM/European spec; often under-reported)
Horsepower Hp Usdm:
276 hp at 6500 RPM
Torque Nm:
373 Nm (275 lb-ft) at 3000 RPM
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (premium recommended)
Engine Type:
Intercooled Turbocharged, DOHC
Fuel System:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI), ECI-MULTI
Turbocharger:
Mitsubishi TD05HR-16G (twin-scroll)
Safety Ratings:
N/A (No standardized global NCAP ratings for this era and model type, but designed with motorsport safety in mind)
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), AYC, ACD, Limited Slip Differential (LSD) front and rear.
Passive Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, reinforced safety cell, side impact door beams, collapsible steering column.
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM/CD player with optional premium sound system. Analog gauges for speed, tachometer, boost pressure, oil temperature.
Driver Assistance:
Advanced AWD system (AYC/ACD) is the primary driver assistance technology, managing torque distribution for optimal traction and handling.
Connectivity:
Minimal by modern standards. Features power windows, central locking, and potentially remote keyless entry on higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 km (3,100 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe duty/performance driving recommended).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 60,000 km (37,000 miles)
Timing Belt Replacement:
100,000 km (62,000 miles) or 5 years
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (for performance, synthetic is recommended)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based, pink or red long-life coolant (e.g., Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant)
Transmission Fluid Spec:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (Manual Transmission)
Differential Fluid Spec:
API GL-5, SAE 90 (Front and Rear LSD; Center Diff often GL-5 75W-90)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF
Known Issues:
Head gasket failure (especially in highly tuned examples), turbocharger wear, AYC/ACD pump failure, clutch wear, rust in common areas (wheel wells, rocker panels), connecting rod failure (in high-stress applications with stock internals).
Brand Heritage:
Mitsubishi has a strong motorsport heritage, particularly in rallying, with numerous championships in the World Rally Championship (WRC) driven by the Lancer Evolution lineage.
Model Evolution:
The Evo VI was a significant evolution from the Evo V, featuring a larger turbocharger, improved cooling, forged pistons and connecting rods, a titanium-aluminum turbine wheel for quicker response, and enhanced AYC system. The 'Tommi Mäkinen Edition' was a special variant celebrating rally driver Tommi Mäkinen's WRC titles, featuring a different turbo, unique ECU mapping, and suspension tuning.
Tommi Makinen Edition Differences:
Specific ECU tune, larger catalytic converter, titanium-aluminum turbine wheel, different camshafts, stiffer suspension settings, quicker steering rack, red engine covers, unique decals, optional WRC rally decals.
Production Years:
1999-2001
Production Location:
Mizushima, Japan