Segment:
Compact Sports Coupe/Convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, performance-oriented buyers, general consumers
Key Competitors:
Honda Prelude, Toyota Celica, Nissan 240SX, Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro
Styling:
Bold, aerodynamic design by Mitsubishi Design Europe
Performance Options:
Available 4-cylinder and V6 engines, with optional AWD on GT models
Chassis Platform:
Shared with Mitsubishi Galant
Interior:
Sporty, driver-focused cockpit
Engine Mechanical:
Yes (2.4L SOHC 4G64, 3.0L SOHC 6G72 V6)
Engine Performance:
Yes (tuning, diagnostics)
Fuel System:
Yes (EFI, fuel pump, injectors)
Ignition System:
Yes (spark plugs, coils, timing)
Cooling System:
Yes (radiator, fans, thermostat, coolant)
Exhaust System:
Yes (catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes)
Transmission Manual:
Yes (F5M33, F5M42)
Transmission Automatic:
Yes (F4A42)
Drivetrain:
Yes (FWD, AWD components for GT)
Suspension Front:
Yes (struts, control arms, bushings)
Suspension Rear:
Yes (multi-link independent on GT, torsion beam on non-GT)
Steering System:
Yes (power steering, rack and pinion)
Braking System:
Yes (front discs, rear discs/drums, ABS)
Electrical System:
Yes (battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams)
Lighting System:
Yes (headlights, taillights, interior lighting)
HVAC System:
Yes (climate control, A/C, heater)
Body Exterior:
Yes (panels, doors, windows, trim)
Body Interior:
Yes (seats, dashboard, trim panels)
Body Chassis:
Yes (frame, unibody construction)
Safety Systems:
Yes (airbags, seatbelts)
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Yes (trouble codes, diagnostic procedures)
Routine Maintenance:
Yes (oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups)
Major Repairs:
Yes (engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls)
Component Replacement:
Yes (alternator, starter, water pump, etc.)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Yes (for 4G64 engine)
Brake Job:
Yes (pad/rotor replacement, caliper service)
Suspension Component Replacement:
Yes (shocks, struts, ball joints)
Electrical Diagnostics:
Yes (wiring diagrams, component testing)
HVAC Service:
Yes (recharging A/C, heater core replacement)
Interior Trim Removal:
Yes (for access to components)
Body Panel Alignment:
Yes
Troubleshooting Guides:
Yes (step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts)
Torque Specifications:
Yes (for all critical fasteners)
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full rebuilds)
Diagrams Illustrations:
Yes (detailed exploded views and schematics)
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
Yes (OBD-II codes and interpretations)
Base Engine:
2.4L SOHC 16-valve Inline-4 (4G64)
Base Engine Power:
Approx. 145-155 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm (depending on year/tune)
Base Engine Torque:
Approx. 155-165 lb-ft @ 3500-4000 rpm
Performance Engine:
3.0L SOHC 24-valve V6 (6G72)
Performance Engine Power:
Approx. 200-205 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm
Performance Engine Torque:
Approx. 205-210 lb-ft @ 4000-4500 rpm
Aspiration:
Naturally Aspirated
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended for base, 91 octane recommended for V6)
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) with OBD-II diagnostics
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
4/5 Stars (Driver/Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
Not Rated / Not Applicable (design evolution)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on some base trims
Traction Control:
Optional on some models, especially GT AWD
Airbags Front:
Standard (Driver and Passenger)
Airbags Side:
Optional on some higher trims
Seatbelts:
3-point front with pretensioners, 3-point rear
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe duty) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal duty) - Consult Manual for Specifics
Engine Oil Filter:
Replace with every oil change
Air Filter:
Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed (typically 15,000-30,000 miles)
Spark Plugs 4Cyl:
Typically iridium plugs, 60,000-100,000 miles interval
Spark Plugs V6:
Typically platinum or iridium plugs, 60,000-100,000 miles interval
Timing Belt 4G64:
Recommended Replacement at 60,000-75,000 miles (Critical Component!)
Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 30,000 miles, then every 30,000 miles thereafter (or per manual)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API SJ or higher certified)
Engine Oil Capacity 4Cyl:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3L) with filter change
Engine Oil Capacity V6:
Approx. 5.0 quarts (4.7L) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based, phosphate-free)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF
Engine Vibration:
Common with the 6G72 V6, often related to engine mounts or balance shaft issues
Power Window Motors:
Failure of window regulator motors is a known issue
Cv Joints:
Wear on front CV joints, especially on AWD models or those driven hard
Rear Suspension Noise:
Bushings in the rear multi-link suspension can wear and cause noise
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket leaks can occur with age
Evap Emissions System:
Canister purge solenoid issues
