Positioning:
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, particularly the 2012-2013 model year (CZ4A generation), is positioned as a high-performance, rally-inspired compact sedan, renowned for its advanced all-wheel-drive system (S-AWC), turbocharged engine, and dynamic handling capabilities. It competes in a niche segment with vehicles like the Subaru WRX STI.
Competitors:
Primary competitor: Subaru WRX STI. Other performance sedans of the era considered by enthusiasts include certain BMW M3 variants, Audi S4, and Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, though the Evo occupies a more accessible price point.
Performance Attributes:
Iconic turbocharged engine, sophisticated Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC), stiff chassis, performance-oriented suspension, powerful braking system, driver-focused cockpit.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential factory-level technical data for owners and independent workshops to maintain, diagnose, and repair the Lancer Evolution effectively, preserving its performance and value.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Turbocharger System, Exhaust System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Manual & Twin-Clutch SST), Transfer Case, Front Drive Shaft, Rear Differential, Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) System
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (ABS, EBD, Brake Assist), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Body Electrical, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Engine Control, Transmission Control, Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Audio System, Navigation System, HVAC Control, SRS Airbag System, ADAS (if equipped)
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Roof, Bumpers, Underbody
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, wiring diagrams, component testing, fault diagnosis for all systems
Repair Overhaul:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service, turbocharger repair, interior and exterior component removal and installation
Specifications Tolerances:
Tightening torques, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, component tolerances
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, including detailed exploded views, diagnostic procedures, wiring schematics, and component-specific repair instructions.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged, intercooled
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1998 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
86.0 mm x 86.0 mm
Engine Management:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Electronic Throttle Control (ETC)
Horsepower Usdm:
291 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque Usdm:
300 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection, high-flow injectors
Turbocharger:
MHI TD05H-152G6-10.5T (or similar variant), with intercooler
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (GTS-4 M/T)
Type:
6-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST)
Clutch Manual:
Hydraulically actuated, single-plate, dry clutch
S-Awc Integration:
Fully integrated with Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system, influencing torque distribution for enhanced traction and cornering.
Fluid Type Manual:
API GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil (specific Mitsubishi specification often required)
Fluid Type Tc Sst:
Specific Mitsubishi DiaQueen SSTF-1 fluid (or equivalent)
Length:
177.0 inches (4495 mm)
Width:
70.9 inches (1800 mm)
Height:
57.9 inches (1470 mm)
Wheelbase:
104.3 inches (2650 mm)
Front Track:
60.4 inches (1535 mm)
Rear Track:
60.4 inches (1535 mm)
Curb Weight Manual:
Approx. 3373 lbs (1530 kg)
Curb Weight Tc Sst:
Approx. 3472 lbs (1575 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by region, typically around 4400 lbs (2000 kg)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 10.0 cu ft (283 liters)
Rear Seat Folding:
60/40 split-folding rear seats
IIHS Ratings:
Generally good ratings for its time, often Top Safety Pick or similar, depending on specific testing and year.
NHTSA Ratings:
Frontal, Side, and Rollover ratings typically 4 or 5 stars, depending on testing methodology.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Active Stability Control (ASC) with Traction Control (TCL)
Brake Assist:
Brake Assist (BAS)
Adas Features:
Optional features like rearview camera, potentially HID headlights.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, curtain airbags (front and rear)
Seatbelts:
Three-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters, rear three-point seatbelts
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Audio System:
Rockford-Fosgate premium audio system (optional on some trims), AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input, USB port.
Navigation:
Optional HDD Navigation system with voice recognition and SiriusXM Traffic availability.
S-Awc:
Super All-Wheel Control system with driver-selectable modes (Tarmac, Gravel, Snow) influencing center differential, rear differential, and active yaw control for optimal traction and handling.
Keyless Entry Start:
Keyless Operation System (KOS) with push-button engine start.
Bluetooth:
Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Usb Port:
Integrated USB port for audio device connection.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe driving conditions) / 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months (normal driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) under severe conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically at 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for iridium spark plugs.
Coolant Replacement:
First change at 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years, then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Timing Belt Chain:
The 4B11T engine uses a timing chain, which is generally designed for the life of the engine but requires regular inspection for tensioner operation and noise.
Engine Oil:
SAE 0W-30, API SN or ACEA C2/C3/A3/B4 certified synthetic oil. Refer to manual for specific viscosity and certification.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change.
Coolant:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free OAT coolant.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Specific Mitsubishi power steering fluid or equivalent DEXRON III ATF.
Engine Common Problems:
Possible issues include turbocharger wear/failure (especially if neglected maintenance), intake manifold gasket leaks, fuel injector clogging, and spark plug fouling. Proper maintenance is critical.
Transmission Common Problems:
TC-SST can be prone to clutch pack wear and mechatronics issues if not maintained properly with fluid changes. Manual transmissions are generally robust but clutch wear is expected with performance driving.
S-Awc Common Problems:
Errors in the S-AWC system can be complex to diagnose, often related to sensor failures or ABS ring issues. Regular checks are advised.
Suspension Common Problems:
Worn bushings, ball joints, and wheel bearings are common with high-performance driving and age.
Rally Roots:
The Lancer Evolution lineage is deeply intertwined with Mitsubishi's success in the World Rally Championship (WRC), with many of its technological advancements directly stemming from its motorsport homologation requirements.
Tenth Generation Cz4A:
The 2012-2013 models represent the latter part of the tenth generation (CZ4A). This generation marked a significant departure from previous generations, moving from a sedan-based chassis to a more integrated platform, and introducing the advanced Twin-Clutch SST transmission and the sophisticated Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system.
Updates 2012 2013:
Minor updates for these years included potentially revised suspension tuning, improved interior materials in some trims, and software refinements for the S-AWC and TC-SST systems. Production for the Lancer Evolution concluded globally in 2016.
Production Years Cz4A:
2007-2016
Manufacturing Location:
Mizushima Plant, Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan
Automotive Journalism Awards:
While specific awards for the 2012-2013 model year may vary, the Lancer Evolution platform has consistently received accolades from automotive publications for its performance, handling, and technology, often featuring on 'best performance car' lists.
Motorsport Achievements:
The Lancer Evolution's heritage is built on numerous championship wins in WRC and other global motorsport series, reinforcing its engineering pedigree.
Track Day Performance:
Highly regarded by track day enthusiasts and amateur racers for its accessible performance capabilities.