Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan / Rally Homologation Special
Competitors:
Subaru WRX STI, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart (lesser variant), Volkswagen Golf GTI (performance-oriented hatchback comparison)
Performance Focus:
Signature turbocharged engine, advanced all-wheel-drive system (ACD/AYC), performance-tuned chassis.
Target Audience:
Enthusiast drivers, motorsport participants, those seeking a highly capable and engaging road car.
Powertrain:
Engine (4B11T), Transmission (GSR/MR SST, 5-speed manual), Drivetrain (AWD, ACD, AYC)
Chassis:
Suspension (front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link), Steering (power assisted rack and pinion), Brakes (ventilated discs front/rear, ABS, EBD, Brake Assist)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, starting/charging system, ignition system, body control modules, power accessories
Body:
Exterior panels, interior trim, seats, airbags, climate control system (HVAC), doors, windows, locks
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspection points
Repair:
Component removal and installation, sub-assembly repair, engine rebuilding, transmission overhaul, brake caliper servicing
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault codes (OBD-II), diagnostic procedures for all major systems
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, alignments, electrical resistance values, pressure readings
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic flowcharts and wiring diagrams.
Engine Type:
2.0L Inline-4 DOHC MIVEC Turbocharged
Horsepower:
291 hp @ 6500 rpm (US Spec)
Torque:
300 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (US Spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with multi-point injectors
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher recommended)
Bore X Stroke:
86 mm x 86 mm
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.8 Liters (5.1 US Quarts) with filter change
Type:
6-speed Twin Clutch Sportronic Shift (TC-SST) - MR trim
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (GSR trim)
Drivetrain:
S-AWC (Super All-Wheel Control) with Active Center Differential (ACD) and Active Yaw Control (AYC)
Tc Sst Fluid:
DIAQUEEN SSTF-1 (or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-5 SAE 75W-90 (or specified Mitsubishi fluid)
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger:
5-Star
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
Traction Control:
Standard
Airbags:
Front, Side Curtain, Front Side Airbags
Audio System:
Rockford Fosgate premium audio system available on MR trim, optional on GSR.
Connectivity:
Limited by 2008 standards; CD player, auxiliary input jack.
Performance Modes:
ACD and AYC system offers various driving modes (Tarmac, Gravel, Snow) for optimal traction and handling.
Keyless Entry Start:
Standard on MR trim (Smart Key system).
Oil Change:
Every 3,750 - 7,500 miles (depending on driving conditions, refer to manual for specifics)
Spark Plugs:
105,000 miles (Platinum/Iridium)
Timing Belt Chain:
Timing Chain (designed to last the life of the engine, but inspection recommended)
Coolant:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (Green or Blue, typically 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
MS-9692 (Mitsubishi Power Steering Fluid) or Dexron III ATF
Engine:
Potential for turbocharger failure if oil changes are neglected; some reports of cracked cylinder heads under extreme stress (less common).
Transmission:
TC-SST transmissions can be sensitive to heat and proper maintenance; early models may have software glitches.
Clutch:
Standard manual clutches can wear at different rates depending on driving style.
Air Filter Part Number Estimate:
MN158007 (example, verify with manual)
Oil Filter Part Number Estimate:
MZ690163 (example, verify with manual)
Motorsport Legacy:
Direct lineage from rally racing homologation specials (Lancer Evolution series).
Generation:
Tenth Generation (CZ4A)
Platform:
Global C Platform (shared with Mitsubishi Lancer, Outlander, Peugeot 4007, Citroen C-Crosser)
Production Period:
2007-2015 (Globally), 2008-2015 (North America)
Manufacturing Location:
Mizushima Plant, Kurashiki, Japan
Automotive Journalism Awards:
Widely praised by automotive media for its handling, performance, and rally-bred DNA. Often cited as a benchmark in its class.
Sport Compact Awards:
Frequently appeared on 'best of' lists for sport compact cars during its production run.
