New Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X
Monday October 01, 2007
Mitsubishi today launched the latest version of the Lancer Evolution models, the 2007 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X. Available in two levels of specification, GSR and RS, the new Lancer is based on the new Lancer Fortis, launched earlier in 2007.
The biggest change under the bonnet is the adoption of the 4B11 MIVEC twin overhead cam 4 cylinder engine, replacing the venerable 4G63 unit found in previous incarnations of the Lancer Evolution. Compared to the 4G63, the 4B11 has square bore and stroke dimensions of 86.0mm, versus 85.0mm x 88.0mm for the 4G63. Volume is virtually unchanged, at 1998cc, which is up fractionally from the 4G63's 1997cc. Claimed power is unchanged, at a healthy 280 PS (206 kW) at 6500 rpm, but torque is improved by 30 Nm to 422 Nm, developed 500 rpm later in the rev range, at 3500 rpm. The new unit also is more efficient thanks to reduced intake/exhaust losses and valvetrain friction, and is a handy 12 kg lighter to boot. The turbocharger has been modified too, to produce a snappier response and to improve mid-range torque. Modifications to the exhaust manifold allow the engine to be mounted lower in the chassis, giving a lower centre of gravity.
Two transmission options are available, a sequential semi-automatic six speed manual system, dubbed "SST", which is only available on the higher-spec GSR, and a 5 speed manual transmission, available on both the GSR and the lighter weight RS models. All models feature sophisticated electronic driver aids, geared towards making the car as fast as possible, while making it as safe as possible. The new platform is significantly stiffer than the previous generation's, resulting in improved handling and crashworthiness as well as less vibration and noise. Weight distribution is improved over the old model as well.
All but the SST-equipped models are available throughout dealers in Japan from today; the SST versions will be in showrooms in late November.
The biggest change under the bonnet is the adoption of the 4B11 MIVEC twin overhead cam 4 cylinder engine, replacing the venerable 4G63 unit found in previous incarnations of the Lancer Evolution. Compared to the 4G63, the 4B11 has square bore and stroke dimensions of 86.0mm, versus 85.0mm x 88.0mm for the 4G63. Volume is virtually unchanged, at 1998cc, which is up fractionally from the 4G63's 1997cc. Claimed power is unchanged, at a healthy 280 PS (206 kW) at 6500 rpm, but torque is improved by 30 Nm to 422 Nm, developed 500 rpm later in the rev range, at 3500 rpm. The new unit also is more efficient thanks to reduced intake/exhaust losses and valvetrain friction, and is a handy 12 kg lighter to boot. The turbocharger has been modified too, to produce a snappier response and to improve mid-range torque. Modifications to the exhaust manifold allow the engine to be mounted lower in the chassis, giving a lower centre of gravity.
Two transmission options are available, a sequential semi-automatic six speed manual system, dubbed "SST", which is only available on the higher-spec GSR, and a 5 speed manual transmission, available on both the GSR and the lighter weight RS models. All models feature sophisticated electronic driver aids, geared towards making the car as fast as possible, while making it as safe as possible. The new platform is significantly stiffer than the previous generation's, resulting in improved handling and crashworthiness as well as less vibration and noise. Weight distribution is improved over the old model as well.
All but the SST-equipped models are available throughout dealers in Japan from today; the SST versions will be in showrooms in late November.
