Market Position:
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI (Evo VI) occupied a niche in the performance car market as a homologation special for rally racing, appealing to driving enthusiasts seeking ultimate on-road performance and handling.
Key Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Escort Cosworth, Lancia Delta Integrale Evoluzione.
Rally Homologation:
Developed for WRC homologation, inheriting technology and tuning from its rally counterparts.
All Wheel Drive:
Advanced Super Active Yaw Control (AYC) and Active Center Differential (ACD) for superior traction and cornering.
Engine Performance:
Renowned 4G63T turbocharged inline-four engine known for its robustness and tuning potential.
Engine System:
Full diagnosis, overhaul, tuning, and component repair for the 4G63T engine.
Drivetrain System:
Manual and automatic transmissions, transfer cases, front and rear differentials, driveshafts, and CV joints.
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, anti-roll bars, and wheel alignment.
Braking System:
Front and rear brake systems, including ABS, caliper service, rotor replacement, brake fluid flush, and parking brake.
Steering System:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rod ends, and steering column.
Electrical System:
Complete electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, ECU functions, sensors, actuators, lighting, and battery/charging system.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter, and fuel tank service.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fans, and coolant specifications.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, and exhaust pipe service.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, and chassis structure.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance schedules, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, and fluid checks.
Troubleshooting:
Detailed diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation, and problem isolation.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and rebuilding for all major vehicle systems.
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) procedures, sensor testing, and ECU flash/update information.
Calibration:
Wheel alignment specifications and procedures, steering angle sensor calibration.
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures with torque specifications and assembly sequences.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Type:
4G63T, 2.0L Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, Turbocharged
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Horsepower:
Approx. 276-280 PS (203-206 kW; 272-276 hp) (JDM/European spec, often understated)
Torque:
Approx. 343-370 Nm (253-273 lb-ft)
Redline:
Approximately 7,500 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sequential multi-port injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (premium, 95+ RON recommended)
Turbocharger Model:
Mitsubishi TD05HR-16G (often upgraded in aftermarket)
Intercooler:
Front-mounted air-to-air intercooler
Length:
Approx. 4,350 mm (171.3 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,770 mm (69.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,405 mm (55.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,600 mm (102.4 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 135 mm (5.3 in) (can vary)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,440 kg (3,175 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not typically specified for performance models in this era.
Trunk Capacity:
Limited, typical for compact sport sedans.
Crash Test Ratings:
No official NHTSA/Euro NCAP ratings for this specific JDM homologation model, but built to robust rally standards.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Active Yaw Control (AYC) and Active Center Differential (ACD) for enhanced traction and stability.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners
Body Structure:
Reinforced chassis and body for rally-era safety and rigidity.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 - 10,000 km (4,500 - 6,000 miles) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions. Enthusiast driving may warrant more frequent changes.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Approximately 90,000 - 105,000 km (56,000 - 65,000 miles) or 7 years. Crucial due to interference engine design.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 40,000 - 60,000 km (25,000 - 37,000 miles) depending on plug type.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG, SH, or SJ rated; Viscosity 10W-30 or 10W-40 (synthetic recommended for performance).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 - 4.7 liters (4.8 - 5.0 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mitsubishi recommends their Dia-Queen Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (synthetic recommended).
Differential Fluid Front:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90.
Differential Fluid Rear:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (some LSDs may require specific friction modifiers).
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Engine Bearing Wear:
Rod bearing wear is a common concern at higher mileage or with aggressive tuning, especially on the 4G63T.
Ayc Pump Failure:
The AYC pump can fail over time, affecting yaw control. Regular fluid level checks are important.
Rust And Corrosion:
Common in older Japanese performance cars, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and subframes.
Turbocharger Wear:
The TD05HR turbo is robust but can wear out, leading to decreased boost or failure.
Brand Heritage:
Mitsubishi has a long and successful history in motorsports, particularly in the World Rally Championship (WRC), with the Lancer Evolution line being its most iconic rally-bred street car.
Evolution Series:
The Evo VI built upon the advancements of its predecessors, refining the aerodynamics, engine, and drivetrain systems, and introducing the iconic Tommi Mäkinen Edition (TME) variant.
Production Years:
1999-2001
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Notable Variants:
Evo VI RS, Evo VI GSR, Evo VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition (TME)
Motorsport Achievements:
The Evo VI, and the Evo lineage in general, achieved legendary status in rallying, securing multiple WRC driver and manufacturer championships.
Performance Reviews:
Widely praised by automotive journalists for its exceptional handling, grip, and driver engagement, often cited as one of the greatest rally homologation specials.