Market Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan / Rally Homologation Special
Reputation:
Iconic, homologation special revered for its rallying pedigree and driving dynamics.
Key Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Focus RS, Honda Civic Type R (later generations).
Powertrain:
Legendary 4G63T 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine with MIVEC.
Drivetrain:
Advanced All-Wheel Control (AWC) system with Active Center Differential (ACD) and Super Active Yaw Control (Super AYC).
Chassis:
Reinforced chassis derived from rally competition, performance-tuned suspension.
Aerodynamics:
Aggressive body kit including large rear wing, front splitter, and vented hood.
Braking System:
Often equipped with high-performance Brembo brakes.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete disassembly, assembly, inspection, and overhaul procedures for the 4G63T MIVEC engine.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, turbocharging system, MIVEC operation, ECU diagnosis.
Transmission Manual:
Service and repair of 5-speed and 6-speed manual transmissions, including clutch system.
Transmission AWD:
Operation and service of the All-Wheel Control (AWC) system, including Super AYC and ACD (Active Center Differential).
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, geometry, alignment, shock absorbers, springs, bushings.
Brakes:
Brake system components (Brembo on many models), hydraulic system, ABS, rotor and pad replacement.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, column, and linkage.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, power windows, central locking, audio system.
Body Exterior:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, aerodynamic components.
Body Interior:
Interior trim, seats, dashboard, HVAC system, airbags.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
System-specific diagnostic procedures, common fault identification, OBD-II code interpretation.
Component Removal Installation:
Detailed step-by-step guides for removing and installing virtually all mechanical and electrical components.
Engine Rebuild:
Full engine overhaul procedures, including piston ring replacement, bearing services, cylinder head rebuilding.
Transmission Overhaul:
Complete rebuild procedures for manual transmissions and related drivetrain components.
Calibration Adjustment:
Wheel alignment specifications, brake system bleeding, and other critical adjustments.
Safety System Repair:
Airbag system diagnosis and repair, ABS component replacement.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Information:
In-depth diagnostic flowcharts, electrical schematics, and troubleshooting trees.
Special Tools:
Lists and descriptions of specific tools required for various repair procedures.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all fasteners, critical for engine and chassis integrity.
Clearances Tolerances:
Precise measurements for engine components and other parts to ensure proper operation.
Configuration:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged with intercooler.
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1997 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Horsepower:
276 hp @ 6500 rpm (JDM/European), 271 hp @ 6500 rpm (USDM)
Torque:
289 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (JDM/European), 273 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (USDM)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) with electronic fuel pump.
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Turbocharger:
Mitsubishi TD05HR-16G.7 Twin-Scroll Turbocharger.
Intercooler:
Front-mounted air-to-air intercooler.
Type:
5-speed manual (most global markets)
Type:
6-speed manual (JDM RS and MR trims)
Awc Integration:
Integrated with Active Center Differential (ACD) and Super Active Yaw Control (Super AYC).
Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch.
Gear Ratios 5Mt:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., 1st: 3.143, 2nd: 1.778, 3rd: 1.330, 4th: 0.976, 5th: 0.760, Reverse: 3.067)
Gear Ratios 6Mt:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., 1st: 3.143, 2nd: 1.833, 3rd: 1.310, 4th: 1.032, 5th: 0.822, 6th: 0.705, Reverse: 3.067)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Refer to manual for specific API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity typically 75W-90.
NHTSA Front Crash:
Refer to specific model year testing; generally good ratings for its era but often lacked side airbags in early models.
Traction Control:
Yes (integrated with AWC system)
Stability Control:
Yes (integrated with AWC system)
ABS:
Yes (Anti-lock Braking System)
Electronic Brake Force Distribution:
Yes (EBD)
Airbags:
Front airbags standard; side airbags and curtain airbags optional or standard on higher trims (MR).
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters.
Body Structure:
Reinforced RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body structure.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe usage recommended for performance driving).
Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-45,000 miles (48,000-72,000 km), depending on plug type (iridium recommended).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years (critical component, inspect periodically).
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual: Typically SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic engine oil meeting API SN/SP or ILSAC GF-6.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, green color).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 High-Temperature Brake Fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual: Usually ATF Dexron II or III, or specific Mitsubishi power steering fluid.
Engine Reliability:
Generally robust 4G63T, but prone to head gasket failure if overheated or poorly maintained. Connecting rod failures can occur with excessive modification and aggressive tuning without proper supporting components.
Turbocharger Wear:
Original turbochargers can experience wear over time, leading to decreased boost pressure or oil leaks into the intake/exhaust.
Awc System Issues:
ACD pump failure, AYC sensor failures, and differential leaks can occur. Regular fluid changes are crucial.
Clutch Wear:
High-performance clutches can wear faster under aggressive driving conditions.
Rust Corrosion:
As with many cars of this era, rust can be an issue in areas with harsh winters and road salt. Check wheel arches, sills, and undercarriage.
Motorsport Connection:
Direct lineage from Mitsubishi's WRC (World Rally Championship) Lancer Evolution models.
Previous Generations:
Evolved from earlier Lancer Evolution models (I-VIII).
Distinguishing Features Of Ix:
Introduction of MIVEC variable valve timing on the 4G63 engine, new turbocharger design, updated AWC system.
Variants:
GSR, RS, MR (JDM specific for MR with 6-speed)
Production Years:
2005-2007 (Model Years 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 depending on market introduction)
Manufacturing Location:
Mizushima Plant, Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan
Car And Driver 10Best:
Evo IX was praised by many automotive publications for its performance and handling, though specific 10Best inclusions for this exact model year vary.
Rally Pedigree:
Car & Driver recognized its homologation status and rally roots, contributing to its desirable image.
Performance Handling Reviews:
Consistently lauded for exceptional grip, agility, and feedback by automotive journalists.
Emissions Compliance:
Meets relevant emissions standards for its respective model years and markets.
