Positioning:
High-performance rally-bred sedan, positioned as a homologation special and enthusiast-focused vehicle.
Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII/IX (predecessors), Ford Focus RS, Volkswagen Golf R, Audi S3.
Performance Features:
All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system, potent turbocharged engine, advanced differentials (ACD/AYC), performance-tuned suspension and brakes.
Design Philosophy:
Rally-inspired aerodynamics, aggressive styling, driver-centric cockpit.
Engine Mechanical:
4B11T (2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4), cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication system
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection system, starting and charging system, engine control unit (ECU) and sensors (MAP, MAF, O2, etc.)
Transmission Manual:
6-speed New Car Transmission (NCT), clutch, gearbox, final drive, differential
Transmission Automated Manual:
6-speed TC-SST (Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission) - for MR trim, control unit, hydraulic system, clutch packs, mechatronics
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system, ACD (Active Center Differential), AYC (Active Yaw Control), rear differential, driveshafts, propeller shaft
Suspension:
Front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link, coil springs, shock absorbers, stabilizer bars, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power assisted rack and pinion, steering column, linkages, steering angle sensor
Brakes:
Front Brembo 6-piston calipers, rear Brembo 4-piston calipers, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures
Electrical Body:
Lighting system, power windows, door locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, interior lighting, body control module (BCM)
Electrical Chassis:
Fuse boxes, relays, wiring diagrams, connectors, grounds
Climate Control:
HVAC system, A/C compressor, refrigerant, heater core, evaporator, blower motor, climate control unit
Infotainment:
Audio system, navigation system (if equipped), display unit, antenna, speakers
Safety Systems:
Airbags (SRS), seat belt pre-tensioners, impact sensors, airbag control module
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacement, drive belt inspection/replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) explanations, component testing procedures, sensor data analysis
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper servicing, turbocharger repair/replacement, body panel repair/replacement
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagram interpretation, circuit testing, module diagnosis and replacement
Body And Trim:
Interior and exterior trim removal/installation, bumper replacement, panel alignment
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced diagnostics)
Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission (for GSR)
Type:
6-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST) (for MR)
Tc Sst Modes:
Normal, Sport, Super Sport
Manual Gear Ratios:
Detailed in manual, specific ratios vary by market and trim.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-80 (e.g., Diaqueen Super Multi Gear Oil LSD)
Tc Sst Fluid:
Specific Dual Clutch Transmission Fluid, Diaqueen SSTF-1
Length:
Approx. 179.5 inches (4560 mm)
Width:
Approx. 71.3 inches (1810 mm)
Height:
Approx. 57.7 inches (1465 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.3 inches (2650 mm)
Front Track:
Approx. 61.0 inches (1550 mm)
Rear Track:
Approx. 60.8 inches (1545 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3400-3500 lbs (1540-1590 kg) depending on trim and transmission
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle placard
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 10.2 cubic feet (288 liters)
Wheel Size:
18 x 8.5 inches (standard), 18 x 8.5 inches (optional Enkei)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under severe driving conditions), or 7,500 miles / 12 months (under normal conditions). Refer to manual for precise details.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed. Replace every 15,000 miles or annually.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plugs:
Platinum: 60,000 miles. Iridium: 100,000 miles. (Refer to manual for specific type for 2008 model).
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Coolant Replacement:
First replacement at 60,000 miles or 4 years, then every 30,000 miles or 2 years thereafter.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 Synthetic (API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 or higher). Specific recommendation for 4B11T often favors full synthetic.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.8 US quarts (5.5 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent), typically pink or red.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation, DOT 4 often preferred for performance).
Engine Oil Consumption:
Some early 4B11T engines may exhibit higher than expected oil consumption, particularly under aggressive driving. Regular checks are advised.
Tc Sst Reliability:
While advanced, the TC-SST transmission can be sensitive to fluid changes and maintenance intervals. Overheating or aggressive use can lead to issues.
Acd Pump Failure:
The ACD pump, responsible for managing the center differential, can be a point of failure over time, leading to AWD system warnings.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Early models could be prone to exhaust manifold cracks due to heat cycles. The manual will detail inspection procedures.