Market Segment:
Performance Sedan / Rally Homologation Special
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, performance drivers, tuners, and mechanics specializing in rally-bred vehicles
Primary Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Lancia Delta Integrale, Ford Focus RS
Rally Heritage:
Directly based on the WRC-winning Lancer Evolution platform
Performance Focus:
Engineered for high performance, handling, and driver engagement
Advanced AWD:
Features Active Center Differential (ACD) and Active Yaw Control (AYC) for superior traction and cornering
Engine:
Full coverage including diagnosis, repair, and overhaul of 4G63T engine
Transmission:
Manual Transmission (GSR models), Automatic Transmission (RS, RS-II models if applicable to the specific manual) repair and service
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive System (AYC, ACD, Super AYC), differentials, driveshafts, and hubs
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, and alignment specifications
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS, brake lines, calipers, rotors, and parking brake
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, and column
Electrical:
Full electrical system diagnosis, wiring diagrams, ECU, sensors, lighting, audio, and power accessories
Bodywork:
Body panels, doors, interior trim, glass, and structural components
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system diagnosis and repair
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, pump, injectors, and emissions control systems
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, and cooling fans
Maintenance:
Regular scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, and belts
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for all systems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems
Overhaul:
Engine and transmission rebuilding procedures
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) information, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and scan tool usage
Wiring:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all circuits
Depth Of Information:
Expert-level technical detail suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Specification Detail:
Includes torque specifications, clearances, fluid types, and electrical resistance values
Engine Type:
DOHC 16-valve inline-4, turbocharged and intercooled
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1997cc)
Horsepower:
280 PS (276 hp; 206 kW) - Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) official rating; export markets may vary slightly
Torque:
373 Nm (275 lb-ft) - JDM official rating
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-point fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (95 RON / 91 AKI or higher)
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) with specific tuning for rally performance
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (standard on GSR, optional on RS)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (less common, often on base models or specific export markets)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, Single-plate, dry-type (manual)
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios detailed in manual for optimal performance across all gears
Transmission Fluid:
Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) type and capacity specified in manual (e.g., Diaqueen LSD Gear Oil)
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Safety ratings varied by market and testing agency; focus was on performance engineering)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Active Stability Control (ASC) or similar electronic stability program
Driver Aid:
Active Center Differential (ACD) and Active Yaw Control (AYC) contribute to stability and control
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners
Chassis Structure:
Reinforced chassis for rally homologation and impact safety
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player and speakers (upgrades common)
Dashboard Display:
Performance-oriented gauges including boost gauge, tachometer, and speed. ACD/AYC status indicator.
AWD Control:
Advanced electronic AWD systems (ACD/AYC) for optimized traction and handling
Connectivity Features:
Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on mechanical and performance systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-5,000 miles) or 6 months, more frequent under spirited driving
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; typically around 50,000-100,000 km (30,000-60,000 miles) depending on plug type
Timing Belt:
Critical; replace every 80,000-100,000 km (50,000-60,000 miles) or 5-7 years, including tensioner and idler pulleys
Engine Oil:
Full Synthetic SAE 10W-40 or 5W-40 recommended (API SG/SH/SJ or higher); consult manual for specific viscosity and API rating
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant) mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
Mitsubishi Electric Power Steering Fluid or equivalent (Dexron III ATF is sometimes used, but check manual)
Engine:
Head gasket failure, piston ring wear (especially in highly modified engines), turbocharger issues if not maintained properly
Drivetrain:
AYC/ACD pump failure, differential wear under extreme use
Suspension:
Worn bushings, ball joints due to performance driving
