Positioning:
Iconic rally-bred performance sedan, known for its advanced technology and driving dynamics
Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Focus RS, Volkswagen Golf R
Performance Focus:
All-wheel drive (AWC), Active Yaw Control (AYC), twin-scroll turbocharger, advanced suspension geometry
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Lubrication System, Turbocharger System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (Driveshafts, Differentials, Transfer Case)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (ABS included), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Body Electrical Systems, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, HVAC Control Module, Power Accessories
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Body Sealing, Glass, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers
Engine Management:
PCM operation, sensor inputs/outputs, actuators, emissions control systems (EVAP, EGR).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical schematics, circuit diagrams
Repair:
Component removal and installation, disassembly and reassembly, adjustments, calibration
Engine Rebuild:
Complete engine teardown, overhaul, and reassembly procedures
Transmission Service:
Gearbox overhaul, clutch replacement, automatic transmission service
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, sensor diagnosis
Wheel Alignment:
Specifications and procedures for front and rear wheel alignment.
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive list of torque values for all fasteners throughout the vehicle.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including connector pinouts.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostics Coverage:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and troubleshooting procedures for all major systems.
Special Tools:
Lists required special tools for specific repair and maintenance procedures.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve with MIVEC and Turbocharger
Engine Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1997 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Horsepower:
280 PS (276 hp) @ 6500 rpm (JDM/Euro spec)
Torque:
373 Nm (275 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm (JDM/Euro spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Turbocharger:
Mitsubishi TD05H-16G (twin-scroll)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium (95 RON / 91+ AKI)
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (New Venture Gear NV T360)
Type:
Optional 5-speed INVECS-II Automatic Transmission (rare)
All Wheel Drive:
Mitsubishi All-Wheel Control (AWC) system with Active Yaw Control (AYC)
Center Differential:
Mechanical Limited Slip Center Differential (AYC-equipped)
Rear Differential:
Mechanical Limited Slip Rear Differential (RLSD)
NHTSA Rating:
Not specifically rated in standardized tests of its era, but features advanced safety systems.
Jncsa Rating:
Varies by market, typically strong for its class.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCL) / Active Stability Control (ASC)
Ayc:
Active Yaw Control (AYC) for enhanced cornering stability (standard on most models)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger front airbags, optional side airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell with front and rear crumple zones
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player with optional premium sound system, potentially aftermarket upgrades common.
Instrumentation:
Digital odometer, tachometer, analog gauges for boost pressure, water temperature, oil pressure (on some models/trims).
Traction Control System:
Advanced AYC and TCL systems for optimizing grip and handling.
Performance Modes:
AYC system offers different modes for various driving conditions (via console switch on some models).
Connectivity Options:
Limited to factory-installed radio features, often upgraded with aftermarket Bluetooth/audio units.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe use: 3,000 miles / 5,000 km)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years
Engine Oil:
5W-30 or 10W-30 Synthetic (API SG/SH or higher, ILSAC GF-2 or higher)
Coolant:
Long-life coolant (50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and distilled water)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF-J2 or equivalent
Differentials Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Hypoid Gear Oil (Front & Rear)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 High-Temperature Brake Fluid
Engine:
Carbon buildup on valves, turbocharger oil seal leaks, cracked exhaust manifold (less common on Evo VII than later models)
Transmission:
Wear in the gearbox synchros, potential clutch wear with aggressive driving
Suspension:
Worn bushings, especially in the control arms and sway bars due to performance use
Electrical:
Corrosion on connectors, intermittent issues with power windows or central locking
Brand Origins:
Mitsubishi Motors, a Japanese automaker with a strong history in motorsports and rally racing.
Evolution Series:
The Lancer Evolution VII is the seventh generation of Mitsubishi's performance-oriented Lancer Evolution series, introduced in February 2001.
Design Changes From Evo Vi:
Features a new chassis derived from the Lancer Cedia, wider track, stronger body structure, and updated AYC system.
Rally Connection:
Developed with homologation for the World Rally Championship (WRC) in mind, building on its predecessor's success.
Production Years:
2001-2003
Assembly Location:
Mizushima Plant, Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan
Special Editions:
GSR (Grand Sport Racing), RS (Rally Sport), RS-Sprint (limited edition for tarmac rallying)
Motorsport Success:
Dominated rally stages globally, setting a benchmark for performance sedans.
Automotive Journalism:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its exceptional handling, braking, and accessible performance.
Track Performance:
Popular choice for track days and club racing due to its robust chassis and potent powertrain.