Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan (Homologation Special)
Key Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (previous generations)
Performance Focus:
Designed for rally racing homologation, emphasizing all-wheel drive performance, turbocharged power, and agile handling.
Legendary Status:
Reputation as one of the most capable and engaging turbocharged performance cars of its era.
Powertrain:
Engine (4G63 MIVEC), Transmission (Manual & Automatic Options), Drivetrain (AWD, ACD, AYC)
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS, EBD), Wheels, Tires
Electrical:
Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting, Audio, HVAC, SRS (Airbags)
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Replacement
Engine Repair:
Disassembly, Assembly, Overhaul, Timing Belt/Chain, Cylinder Head, Piston/Rings, Crankshaft
Transmission Repair:
Clutch Replacement, Gearbox Overhaul, Differential Service
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, DTC codes, Component testing
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, Component testing, Circuit tracing
Body Repair:
Panel alignment, Dent repair, Trim replacement
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting.
Engine Type:
4G63 MIVEC Turbocharged Inline-4
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1997cc)
Horsepower:
286 hp @ 6500 RPM (US Spec)
Torque:
289 lb-ft @ 3500 RPM (US Spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Turbocharger
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 16 Valves with MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Turbocharger:
Mitsubishi TD05HR-16G Twin-Scroll Turbocharger
Intercooler:
Front-Mounted Air-to-Air Intercooler
Transmission Type Standard:
6-Speed Manual
Transmission Type Optional:
5-Speed Automatic (Less Common, Less Desirable for Performance)
AWD System:
Full-Time All-Wheel Drive with ACD (Active Center Differential)
Rear Differential:
AYC (Active Yaw Control) with Super AYC (Super Active Yaw Control) on MR models
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic Clutch Actuation
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Not Specifically Rated for this Generation in US
IIHS Crash Test Performance:
N/A (Vehicle predates widespread IIHS testing focus on performance cars)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Acd System:
Active Center Differential (ACD) - Controls torque split between front and rear axles
Ayc System:
Active Yaw Control (AYC) / Super AYC (Super Active Yaw Control) - Manages torque to rear wheels for improved cornering
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags, Optional Side Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-Point ELR Seatbelts with Pretensioners
Body Structure:
Reinforced Safety Cell, Front and Rear Crumple Zones
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD Player with available Rockford Fosgate premium audio upgrade.
Navigation:
Optional Factory GPS Navigation System (Rare)
Cruise Control:
Standard Cruise Control
Performance Modes:
ACD system offers selectable modes (Tarmac, Gravel, Snow) to optimize torque distribution.
Auxiliary Input:
Optional AUX input for audio devices
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (Recommended for performance driving)
Engine Air Filter:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually
Spark Plugs:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (Depending on plug type)
Timing Belt:
Every 60,000-90,000 miles (Critical component, consult manual for exact interval)
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 Synthetic (API SG or higher, ACEA A3/B3 or higher, consult manual for specific certifications)
Coolant:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent Ethylene Glycol based coolant
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 75W-90 Gear Oil (e.g., Mitsubishi DiaQueen LSD Gear Oil)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF-SP III (Mitsubishi Genuine ATF)
Differential Fluid Ayc:
GL-5 75W-90 or 75W-85 GL-5 with LSD additive (Consult manual for specific AYC fluid)
Engine Reliability:
Generally robust 4G63, but can be sensitive to oil starvation, overheating, and improper tuning on modified engines.
Acd Ayc Failures:
Issues with the ACD/AYC pumps and sensors can occur with age and mileage. Fluid contamination is a common cause.
Clutch Wear:
Performance driving can lead to accelerated clutch wear. The stock clutch is robust but not indestructible.
Turbo Wear:
Premature turbo failure can occur if maintenance is neglected, especially oil changes.
Motorsport Legacy:
Mitsubishi's deep roots in the World Rally Championship (WRC) heavily influenced the Lancer Evolution's development.
Evolution Series:
The Evo 9 is the final iteration of the iconic CT9A chassis, building upon the success of the Evo 7 and Evo 8.
Key Upgrades Over Evo8:
MIVEC engine technology, improved turbocharger, revised ACD, aerodynamic enhancements.
Manufacturing Plant:
Mizushima Plant, Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan
Global Availability:
Primarily sold in Japan, Europe, Australia. Limited US market release, primarily through grey market imports until official import of Evo X.
