Segment:
Compact hatchback/sportback, competing in a segment known for practicality, fuel efficiency, and increasingly, sporty driving dynamics.
Target Audience:
Individuals and families seeking a versatile vehicle with a practical cargo area, sporty styling, and reliable performance.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic Hatchback, Mazda3 Sport, Subaru Impreza 5-Door, Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus Hatchback.
Usp:
The Lancer Sportback offered a unique blend of Lancer's sporty sedan platform with increased practicality via its hatchback design, often appealing to those who found traditional sedans limiting but still desired Mitsubishi's performance heritage.
Design:
Aggressive styling derived from the Lancer Evolution, distinctive front grille, sporty silhouette, integrated rear spoiler.
Practicality:
Versatile hatchback design with a split-folding rear seat and ample cargo space, offering more utility than the Lancer sedan.
Performance Heritage:
Built on the same platform as the acclaimed Lancer Evolution, inheriting some of its driving dynamics and tuning potential.
Mut Iii Integration:
The inclusion of MUT-III compatibility indicates a focus on advanced diagnostics and programming capabilities, essential for modern vehicle maintenance and repair, especially for electronics and powertrain control units.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine management system (ECU, sensors, actuators).
Transmission:
Manual transmission (5-speed and 6-speed), Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) - repair, overhaul, operation, and diagnosis.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD), all-wheel drive (AWD) systems (where applicable), differentials, driveshafts, CV joints.
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), brake fluid specifications, rotor and pad replacement, caliper overhaul.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering column, tie rods, steering gear, steering angle sensor.
Body:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, windows, exterior trim, interior trim, seats, roof system, underbody.
Electrical:
12V battery system, alternator, starter motor, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), wipers, horn, power windows, power locks, mirrors, fuse box diagrams, wiring schematics.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator, climate control module.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seatbelt pretensioners, occupant sensors, relevant diagnostic procedures.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), use of MUT-III (Mitsubishi Under-Vehicle Information System) for advanced diagnostics and programming.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks: oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Repair:
Component-level repair and replacement procedures for all major systems, including engine assembly/disassembly, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension component replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex faults, including symptom-based troubleshooting charts and wiring diagrams.
Technical Specifications:
Detailed specifications for all components, including torque values, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, and pressures.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems, including power distribution, ground points, and signal pathways.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair and maintenance procedures.
Reset Procedures:
Procedures for resetting service indicators, adaptive learning for transmissions and engines, and keyless entry system initialization.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electronic diagnostics and system calibration.
Engine Code:
4B10 (1.8L MIVEC), 4B11 (2.0L MIVEC), 4B11T (2.0L MIVEC Turbocharged - Ralliart/GTS models)
Engine Type:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, Aluminum block and head, MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) system.
1.8L (4B10) Horsepower:
Approximately 140-148 hp @ 6000 rpm (depending on market and tuning)
1.8L (4B10) Torque:
Approximately 125-130 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (depending on market and tuning)
2.0L (4B11) Horsepower:
Approximately 152-168 hp @ 6000 rpm (depending on market and tuning)
2.0L (4B11) Torque:
Approximately 140-145 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (depending on market and tuning)
2.0L Turbo (4B11T) Horsepower:
Approximately 237-290 hp @ 6000 rpm (Ralliart/GTS variants)
2.0L Turbo (4B11T) Torque:
Approximately 255-295 lb-ft @ 2500-3000 rpm (Ralliart/GTS variants)
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) or Direct Injection (DI) for some variants, Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, Octane rating typically 87 RON (91 AKI) for naturally aspirated, premium unleaded for turbocharged models.
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) with integrated diagnostic capabilities accessible via MUT-III.
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (often standard on base models)
Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission (available on higher performance trims like Ralliart)
AWD:
Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system available on performance models (Ralliart), offering advanced torque vectoring and driver-selectable modes.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-85 or 75W-90 (specific part numbers provided in manual, e.g., Mitsubishi DiaQueen LSD Gear Oil). Check manual for specific fill amounts and grades.
Cvt Fluid:
Mitsubishi Genuine CVT Fluid J4 (or equivalent specification as per manual). Critical to use the correct fluid to avoid transmission damage. Refer to manual for specific part number and capacity.
Length:
Approximately 177.4 inches (4505 mm)
Width:
Approximately 69.4 inches (1763 mm)
Height:
Approximately 58.1 inches (1475 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 104.3 inches (2650 mm)
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
Approximately 14.8 cubic feet (420 liters) (Varies slightly by market)
Cargo Volume Seats Down:
Significantly increased capacity, estimated over 40 cubic feet (Varies by market and configuration)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2,900 - 3,300 lbs (1315 - 1500 kg) (depending on engine, transmission, and trim)
NHTSA Front Crash:
5-Star Rating (for 2010 model year, depending on specific test configuration)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Typically achieved 'Good' ratings in key crash tests by IIHS for this generation.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Available Active Stability Control (ASC) or ASC + Traction Control.
AWD Control:
S-AWC (Super All-Wheel Control) on performance models for enhanced active safety and handling.
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (front and rear).
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters for front seats, LATCH child seat anchor system.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input. Higher trims may feature Rockford Fosgate premium audio systems, Bluetooth connectivity, and navigation systems.
Display:
Central touchscreen display for navigation and infotainment on equipped models.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, available adaptive cruise control on some higher trims (though less common for 2010 model year).
Keyless Entry:
Available keyless entry system with remote ignition start on some models.
Bluetooth:
Available Bluetooth hands-free phone system and audio streaming.
Mut Iii Integration:
The manual's MUT-III compatibility highlights its advanced diagnostic capabilities, allowing for intricate programming, calibration of ECUs, key coding, and deep system analysis, crucial for maintaining the vehicle's electronic systems.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months with synthetic oil if recommended by dealer/manual.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months, or as needed based on driving conditions (inspect more frequently).
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 12,000 miles (19,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plugs:
Iridium-tipped spark plugs typically require replacement around 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km), refer to manual for specific type and interval.
Timing Belt Chain:
This generation (4B1x engines) uses a timing chain, which is generally maintenance-free and designed to last the life of the engine. Inspection for wear or noise should be done as per manual recommendations.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic oil recommended. Always confirm with the owner's manual or vehicle's oil cap for the exact specification.
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) - Pink or Red color. A 50/50 mix with distilled water. Do not mix coolant types.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Flush and replacement every 3-5 years or as per manual.
Engine Oil Consumption:
Some owners have reported higher than average oil consumption, especially on higher-mileage naturally aspirated 4B10/4B11 engines. Regular checks are advised. Potential causes can include valve stem seals or piston ring wear.
Cvt Issues:
While generally reliable, CVTs can be sensitive to fluid degradation. Proper fluid changes with the correct type are crucial. Some reports of shuddering or hesitation, often resolved by fluid service or software updates.
Suspension Noises:
Front and rear suspension components like bushings and ball joints can wear over time, leading to clunking or creaking noises, particularly on rough roads. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Electronics:
As with many vehicles of this era, minor electrical gremlins can occur, such as issues with power windows, door locks, or infotainment systems. The manual's wiring diagrams and diagnostic sections are vital here.