Vehicle Segment:
Compact performance sedan (rally homologation special).
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, performance drivers, rally fans.
Key Competitors:
Subaru WRX STI, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart (lower spec), Volkswagen Golf GTI (different segment but performance-oriented).
Performance Engine:
2.0L turbocharged MIVEC inline-4 (4B11T).
Performance Drivetrain:
Advanced S-AWC (Super All-Wheel Control) system.
Performance Transmission:
Available 5-speed manual or 6-speed TC-SST (Twin Clutch-SST) dual-clutch automatic.
Design:
Aggressive styling, functional aerodynamic enhancements.
Engine Mechanical:
Full engine overhaul, timing belt/chain, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery, emissions control.
Engine Management:
ECU diagnostics, sensor testing (MAP, MAF, TPS, O2), fuel injection control, ignition timing, turbocharger control, variable valve timing (MIVEC).
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gearbox overhaul, shift mechanisms, gear ratios, lubrication.
Transmission Automatic:
TC-SST (Twin Clutch-SST) operation, hydraulic control, valve body, mechatronics, servicing and diagnostics.
Drivetrain Awc:
S-AWC (Super All-Wheel Control) system, ACD (Active Center Differential), AYC (Active Yaw Control), DCCD (Driver Controlled Center Differential), differential servicing, hub bearings.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering rack, tie rods, steering column, alignment.
Brakes:
Brake system components (calipers, rotors, pads), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, power windows, mirrors, central locking, horn, fuses, relays.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, seating, airbags, climate control system, body sealing, rust prevention.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), fault finding charts, circuit diagrams, wiring schematics, step-by-step troubleshooting procedures.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, coolant checks, brake fluid checks, tire rotation.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed service intervals for major components and systems based on mileage or time.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for removing, inspecting, repairing, and installing all major vehicle components.
Overhaul Procedures:
Complete disassembly and reassembly of engine, transmission, and differential units.
Component Testing:
Methods for testing sensors, actuators, electrical components, and mechanical parts.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.
Alignment Procedures:
Wheel alignment angles and adjustments for front and rear.
Refrigerant Handling:
Procedures for servicing the air conditioning system, including refrigerant recharge.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced diagnostics).
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using scan tools (e.g., MUT-III) for diagnostic procedures.
Electrical Schematics:
Detailed wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged with intercooler.
Displacement:
1998 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
86.0 mm x 86.0 mm
Horsepower Ps:
295 PS (approx. 291 hp) @ 6500 RPM (JDM/European spec, US spec slightly lower initially)
Horsepower Hp:
295 hp (approx.)
Torque Nm:
407 Nm (approx. 300 lb-ft) @ 3500 RPM
Torque Lb Ft:
300 lb-ft (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)
Turbocharger:
Mitsubishi TD05H-15G (or similar variant) Twin-Scroll Turbocharger with intercooler.
Emission Controls:
Catalytic converter, secondary air injection system, EVAP system.
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission (RM01A)
Optional Transmission:
6-speed TC-SST (Twin Clutch-SST) - Sportronic Shift Transmission
Tc Sst Features:
Paddle shifters, multiple driving modes (Normal, Sport, Super Sport), automated manual operation.
Manual Gear Ratios:
1st: 3.077, 2nd: 2.105, 3rd: 1.429, 4th: 1.034, 5th: 0.760, Reverse: 3.250
Tc Sst Gear Ratios:
1st: 3.500, 2nd: 2.200, 3rd: 1.467, 4th: 1.108, 5th: 0.866, 6th: 0.744, Reverse: 3.250
Transmission Fluid Manual:
DiaQueen LSD Gear Oil (or equivalent GL-4/GL-5, check specific grade)
Transmission Fluid Tc Sst:
DiaQueen SSTF-1 (or equivalent Dual Clutch Transmission Fluid)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Driver:
5-Star (for 2008 model year, specific test results may vary by region)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Passenger:
5-Star (for 2008 model year)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:
Good (for models tested)
ABS:
Yes, with EBD and Brake Assist.
Traction Control:
Yes, Active Traction Control (TCL).
Electronic Stability Control:
Yes, Active Stability Control (ASC).
Awc System:
Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) with ACD, AYC, and ASC integration.
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, full-length side curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters, front active head restraints.
Body Structure:
Reinforced impact-absorbing body structure.
Infotainment System:
Rockford Fosgate audio system (optional), touch-screen navigation system (optional), CD player, MP3 compatibility.
Display Size:
7-inch touchscreen (for navigation models).
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, keyless entry, push-button start.
Advanced Driver Assistance:
None standardly available for 2008 (no adaptive cruise, lane keep assist, etc.).
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth hands-free calling (optional), USB input (optional on some trims/years).
Engine Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Engine Oil Filter:
Replace with every oil change.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed (typically every 15,000-30,000 miles).
Spark Plugs:
Iridium-tipped spark plugs: Replace every 60,000-75,000 miles.
Coolant Replacement:
First replacement at 60,000 miles or 4 years, then every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Brake Fluid:
Replace every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-30 (API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 or higher) - check manual for specific Mitsubishi approval.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based, pink color).
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III/VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or specific Mitsubishi P/S fluid.
Engine Reliability:
Generally robust, but some reports of turbocharger issues (oil leaks/failure) with aggressive use. MIVEC system requires proper oil changes.
Transmission Tc Sst:
TC-SST can be prone to overheating and requires specific fluid maintenance. Some models may experience shifting issues.
S Awc System:
ACD/AYC pump and sensors can fail with age/mileage. Differential fluid changes are critical.
Suspension Components:
Worn bushings and ball joints are common wear items due to the performance-oriented nature of the vehicle.
Body Rust:
Can be susceptible to rust in areas with harsh winters, especially around wheel wells and undercarriage.