Vehicle Segment:
Performance Compact / Rally Homologation Special
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, performance drivers, tuners, mechanics, rally fans
Key Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Focus RS, Peugeot 206 WRC (homologation variants)
Performance Focus:
Advanced all-wheel-drive system (AYC/S-AYC), turbocharged engine, performance-tuned suspension and brakes
Rally Heritage:
Developed as a homologation special for World Rally Championship (WRC)
Manual Type:
Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, though not explicitly stated, common for such manuals)
Completeness:
Comprehensive, covering all details, models, and engines
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine control system (ECU), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission (5-speed), Active Yaw Control (AYC), Super Active Yaw Control (S-AYC), propeller shaft, rear differential, driveshafts
Chassis:
Suspension (front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link), steering system, brake system (front ventilated discs, rear solid discs, ABS, EBD)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, engine control sensors, body control modules, lighting, audio system, power accessories, starter, alternator
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, climate control system, airbags
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, belt inspections
Repair:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service, electrical component diagnosis and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting charts, electrical circuit diagnosis
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Includes diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, sensor data interpretation, and ECU reset procedures
Repair Complexity:
Covers procedures from basic adjustments to complete component overhauls and rebuilds
Technical Drawings:
Likely includes exploded views, torque specifications, and alignment data
Engine Type:
2.0L Inline-4 Turbocharged DOHC 16-valve
Horsepower:
280 PS (276 hp; 206 kW) at 6500 rpm (JDM/European specifications, power output varied by market)
Torque:
333 Nm (246 lb-ft) at 3500 rpm (JDM specifications)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), multi-point injection
Turbocharger:
Mitsubishi TD05H-16G or similar specification, intercooled
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
N/A (Evolution VII was exclusively manual)
All Wheel Drive:
Full-time All-Wheel Drive with Active Yaw Control (AYC)
Differential Type:
Front: Helical Limited Slip Differential (LSD); Rear: Active Yaw Control (AYC) / Super Active Yaw Control (S-AYC) in later revisions
Crash Test Results:
Specific ratings vary by testing agency and region; generally robust for its era.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
Ayc:
Active Yaw Control (AYC) system for enhanced cornering stability
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters
Audio System:
Factory fitted radio/cassette/CD player with up to 6 speakers. Aftermarket upgrades common.
ABS Ebd:
Integrated ABS and EBD for improved braking control.
Ayc:
Key technological feature for torque vectoring and handling.
Connectivity Options:
Limited by modern standards; typically basic audio inputs, no Bluetooth or USB as standard.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe use)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 km or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 40,000 km
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 5W-30 (synthetic recommended for performance)
Transmission Fluid:
API GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (manual transmission)
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, 50/50 mixture with distilled water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine Reliability:
The 4G63T engine is generally robust but can be prone to issues with oil starvation if not properly maintained, or if modified extensively without supporting upgrades.
Ayc System:
AYC pump and differential can be susceptible to wear or failure over time, especially with hard driving or lack of fluid maintenance.
Clutch Wear:
Given the performance nature, clutch wear can be accelerated with aggressive driving.
Motorsport Foundation:
Mitsubishi's extensive rallying heritage, particularly with the Lancer platform, informs the Evolution models.
Evolution Series Context:
The Evolution VII followed the highly successful Evolution VI and introduced significant chassis and drivetrain refinements, including the AYC system.
Platform Sharing:
Based on the Mitsubishi Lancer Cedia platform (seventh generation Lancer).
Production Years:
February 2001 - March 2003
Manufacturing Location:
Mizushima Plant, Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan
Motorsport Success:
While the Evolution VII itself wasn't a direct WRC homologation model for the 2001 season (the VI took that role), it laid the groundwork for future rally cars and continued the legendary performance reputation.
Automotive Journalism Acclaim:
Widely praised by automotive journalists for its exceptional handling, grip, and rally-bred performance.
