Segment:
Performance Sedan, Rally Homologation Special
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, Owners Requiring In-Depth Mechanical Knowledge, Performance Tuners
Key Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart, Ford Focus RS
Unique Selling Points:
Iconic 4G63 Engine, Advanced All-Wheel Drive System (S-AWC), Rally Pedigree
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential for maintaining the performance and reliability of a highly specialized vehicle
Engine Mechanical:
Disassembly, Assembly, Inspection, Repair of all Engine Components (4G63 DOHC Turbocharged)
Engine Management:
ECU Diagnosis, Sensors, Actuators, Ignition System, Fuel System, Emission Control Systems
Transmission:
Manual Transmission (5-speed & 6-speed), Transfer Case, Drivetrain Components
Suspension:
Front & Rear Suspension Components, Alignment Specifications, Bushings, Dampers
Brakes:
Front & Rear Brake Systems (Disc Brakes), ABS, Brake Fluid Specifications
Steering:
Power Steering System, Steering Gearbox, Tie Rods, Wheel Alignment
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Battery, Alternator, Starter, Lighting, Fuses, Relays, ECUs, Instrumentation
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Glass, Seals
Heating Cooling:
HVAC System, Radiator, Fans, Air Conditioning System
Comfort Convenience:
Power Windows, Power Locks, Cruise Control, Audio System
Maintenance:
Routine Service Intervals, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Flowcharts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, Common Faults
Repair:
Detailed Step-by-Step Repair Instructions for all Major Components and Systems
Overhaul:
Complete Engine and Transmission Rebuild Procedures
Diagnostics:
OBD-II Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Sensor Data Interpretation, Electronic System Diagnosis
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive Color-Coded Wiring Schematics for all Electrical Systems
Depth:
Comprehensive Coverage from Basic Maintenance to Advanced Engine Rebuilding and Electronic Diagnostics
Engine Code:
4G63T (DOHC, Inline-4, Turbocharged, Intercooled)
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1997 cc)
Horsepower Range:
Evo VII: 276 hp, Evo VIII: 265-276 hp, Evo IX: 286 hp (JDM/USDM variations)
Torque Range:
Evo VII: 284 lb-ft, Evo VIII: 282-289 lb-ft, Evo IX: 289-300 lb-ft (JDM/USDM variations)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)
ECM Type:
Engine Control Module (ECU) with extensive diagnostic capabilities
Cooling Type:
Water-Cooled with Front-Mounted Intercooler
Type:
5-speed Manual (Evolution VII/VIII), 6-speed Manual (Evolution IX)
Type:
Limited availability of some Automatic or Semi-Automatic transmissions in certain markets, but not standard for performance variants.
Drivetrain:
Full-Time Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) with Active Center Differential (ACD) and Limited Slip Differentials (Front & Rear)
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
Refer to manual for specific API GL-4/GL-5 or equivalent specifications, viscosity grades may vary.
Transfer Case Fluid Spec:
Refer to manual for specific gear oil specifications.
Length:
Approx. 4440 mm (174.8 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1770 mm (69.7 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1415 mm (55.7 inches)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 1450-1500 kg (3197-3307 lbs)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2630 mm (103.5 inches)
NHTSA Ratings:
Varies by model year and specific crash test; generally good for its era, but specific ratings should be verified for each year.
AWD System:
Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) enhances stability and traction
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System standard
Traction Control:
Active Traction Control (ATC) standard
Airbags:
Frontal Airbags, Side Airbags (availability may vary by market and trim)
Seatbelts:
3-point Seatbelts with pretensioners
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell for occupant protection
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player with optional premium sound systems (e.g., Rockford Fosgate).
Climate Control:
Manual or Automatic Climate Control depending on trim level.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models
Active Center Differential:
Key technology for torque distribution management and handling dynamics.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on audio system integration. No factory Bluetooth or USB connectivity in early models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (severe use requires more frequent changes).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically around 60,000-70,000 miles (96,000-112,000 km) or 5-7 years. Critical for 4G63 engine integrity.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on plug type (iridium recommended).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, ACEA A2-96 or B2-96, Viscosity: 5W-30, 10W-30, 10W-40, 20W-50 (refer to manual for specific climate recommendations)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol Based Coolant (Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine:
Head Gasket failure at high mileage or with aggressive tuning, Turbocharger wear, piston ring wear (especially with aftermarket modifications).
Drivetrain:
Clutch wear (performance driving), ACD pump failure, differential issues (if abused).
Electrical:
Corrosion on electrical connectors (especially in humid climates), ECU failures are rare but possible.
Rally Roots:
Directly derived from Mitsubishi's World Rally Championship (WRC) homologation specials
Evolution Vii:
Introduction of Active Center Differential (ACD) and active yaw control systems
Evolution Viii:
Introduction of twin-scroll turbocharger, upgraded suspension, and updated styling for global markets.
Evolution Ix:
MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) system added to the 4G63, further increasing power and efficiency. Introduction of 6-speed manual transmission.
Manufacturing Location:
Mizushima Plant, Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan
Production Span:
2001-2007 (for Evolution VII-IX models)
Automotive Press Acclaim:
Consistently lauded by automotive journalists for its performance, handling, and rally-inspired capabilities.
Performance Metrics:
Frequently cited for exceptional acceleration and cornering abilities, often outperforming competitors in its class.
Homologation Status:
Designed and built to meet WRC homologation requirements, influencing its chassis and powertrain design.
