2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution: Turbocharged Fun in a 4-Door Sports Car

Thanks to its potent turbocharged and intercooled powerplant, precision-tuned handling, communicative steering feel and 4-door configuration, the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is an ultra-high-performance sports car that allows the driver to take to the track – along with several of his/her like-minded friends.

For the 2014 model year, the Lancer Evolution gains several upscale-oriented improvements to make an already very enjoyable ride an even more sumptuous experience. These new features include:

•6.1-in. touchscreen display audio system

•HD Radio®

•SIRIUSXM® satellite radio with 3-month pre-paid subscription

•An available MMCS navigation system with 7-in. high-definition touch panel, voice command, 3D mapping, point-of-interest information, real-time traffic and Mapcare® including two updates

Pulse-Pounding Turbocharged Power

With a ready 291 bhp on tap at 6,500 rpm and a full 300 lb.-ft. of torque beginning at 4,000 rpm, the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution's DOHC 16-valve 2.0-liter turbocharged and intercooled inline-4-cylinder engine feels completely willing and able at virtually any mark on the tachometer.

This 4B11 T/C powerplant features a 'square' design with a bore and stroke each measuring 86.0 mm, a compression ratio of 9.0:1 and a reinforced cast-aluminum engine block and an aluminum cylinder head. Power production is further maximized by the installation of a high-volume free-flow exhaust system with dual exhaust outlets, while weight balance is improved with the turbocharger and stainless steel exhaust manifold positioned close to the firewall at the rear of the engine.

Rally Racing-Derived Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC)

Having won numerous drivers' championships – including four straight from 1996 through 1999 with Finnish racing legend Tommi Makinen – in the extremely challenging on- and off-road circuits featured in the World Rally Championship (WRC), this specialized racing discipline has proven to be the fertile real-world test bed for developing Mitsubishi Motors' exceptionally capable Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) all-wheel drive system.

The 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution employs a network of highly advanced components in the company's trademark Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) all-wheel drive system to achieve maximum tractability, safety, handling and performance. These include an Active Center Differential (ACD) and a rear differential with Active Yaw Control (AYC), a Sport ABS braking system and Active Stability Control (ASC).

Allowing up to a 50:50 torque split between the front and rear wheels, the Active Center Differential (ACD) controls the power routed to the wheels via an electronically-controlled multi-plate clutch based on a number of parameters including steering wheel angle, throttle opening, and individual wheel speeds.

The Active Yaw Control (AYC) controls torque distribution to the vehicle's rear wheels through yaw rate sensors, brake force control from the Active Stability Control (ASC) and the planetary gear rear differential.

The Active Stability Control (ASC) oversees the traction and stability control systems and helps prevent wheel slip and regulates brake force and power distribution at each individual wheel for improved stability and traction when cornering.

The Sport Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) utilizes data from the S-AWC and the yaw rate sensors, along with advanced brake pressure, to rapidly decelerate the vehicle with exceptional poise and control.

Mitsubishi Motors' Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) all-wheel drive system may be complex, but the system greatly simplifies matters for the driver, thanks to three selectable traction modes – Tarmac, Gravel and Snow – for maximum performance on low-grip surfaces and/or in poor weather conditions.

Chassis/Suspension: More Than Up to the Task

Underpinning the 2014 Lancer Evolution is the same well-engineered global platform that serves as the foundation for not only the Lancer sports sedan and the stylish 5-door Lancer Sportback models but also the popular Outlander and Outlander Sport crossover vehicles.

The competition-based high-performance suspension on the Lancer Evolution consists of inverted MacPherson struts at the front of the vehicle with a multi-link design at the rear. In addition to the suspension's aluminum control arms, this strong yet lightweight alloy can be found throughout the vehicle to help reduce overall vehicle weight: the front fenders, hood, roof and front and rear bumper beams are composed of aluminum. In a further nod to reducing vehicle mass and while improving weight distribution for better overall driving dynamics, the battery and the windshield washer fluid tank have been relocated to the trunk.

Decisions, Decisions: Lancer Evolution GSR or MR?

The 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution GSR combines all of the athleticism and performance that we have come to expect from the legendary Lancer Evolution lineage – including a precise short-throw 5-speed manual transmission – along with a very attractive price.

A long list of welcome standard features and amenities are included on every Lancer Evolution GSR model: highly supportive Recaro® semi-bucket sport seats; leather-wrapped sport steering wheel; lightweight Enkei® alloy wheels; Yokohama Advan® high-performance tires; Brembo® brakes; and a large, eye-catching rear deck lid spoiler.

The 5-speed manual transmission-equipped 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution GSR achieves an EPA-rated 17 mpg city/23 mpg highway.

Perhaps the most prominent feature that separates the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR from the GSR edition is a very special transmission that is nothing short of an engineering masterpiece.

Mitsubishi Motors' Twin-Clutch Sportronic® Shift Transmission (TC-SST) performs virtually instantaneous split-second shifts through its 6-speed gearbox, whether the transmission is operating in 'automatic' mode or is being 'manually' shifted by the driver via the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters or by pushing forward/pulling back on the console-mounted gear shift lever.

Mitsubishi Motors engineers programmed three automatic drive modes for the Twin-Clutch Sportronic® Shift Transmission (TC-SST): Normal, Sport and S-Sport. In Normal mode, the Lancer Evolution drives similar to most automatic transmission-equipped vehicles. In Sport mode, the shift points are moved higher in the rpm range and shifting has been quickened. The S-Sport mode goes further, holding each gear close to redline, and is optimized for the racetrack.

Other 2014 Lancer Evolution MR exclusive features include an upgraded sport-tuned suspension fitted with Bilstein® shock absorbers and Eibach® springs, BBS® forged-alloy wheels, special lightweight two-piece Brembo® front brake rotors (each set 2.9 lbs. lighter than those found on the GSR model), and High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights.

The 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR with the TC-SST twin-clutch gearbox has an EPA mileage rating of 17 mpg city/ 22 mpg highway.

And whether a 2014 Mitsubishi Motors Lancer Evolution customer eventually chooses a GSR or MR model, these vehicles feature a jam-packed standard features package including a leather-wrapped sport steering wheel with cruise and audio controls; an aerodynamically-enhancing rear diffuser; power windows, mirrors and door locks; automatic climate control; form-fitting Recaro® front bucket sport seats; remote keyless entry and Mitsubishi Motors' FUSE Hands-Free Link System® that allows users to wirelessly connect to their Bluetooth®-enabled cell phone, iPod® or USB drive by using their voice.

Safety and Warranty: Additional Piece of Mind

Helping to protect the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution occupants in the event of an accident are Mitsubishi Motors' patented next-generation Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) technology to help disperse energy from the cabin section as well as the fuel system, a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and a supplemental restraint system (SRS) with occupant sensors and a total of seven air bags: a driver's side knee air bag, two advanced dual-stage front air bags with occupant seat position sensors, two seat-mounted side-impact air bags and two side curtain air bags.

An extensive vehicle warranty includes a fully transferable 3-year/36,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty; a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain limited warranty (applicable to the vehicle's original purchaser); a 7-year/100,000-mile anti-corrosion perforation limited warranty; and a 5-year/unlimited miles roadside assistance program.

by Mitsubishi

Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) has introduced the all-new, 2008 Lancer compact sport sedan, delivering driven-to-thrill dynamics, ''class-up'' value, advanced safety and available cutting-edge user-technology in an aggressively styled package. The new-generation Lancer models arrive in Mitsubishi dealerships in early 2007. The 2008 Lancer brings the bold, dynamic lines of the show-stopping Mitsubishi Concept-X to the showroom. First shown in 2005, the stunning Concept X previewed not only the next generation Mitsubishi compact sport sedan, but also a new design language to convey an unmistakable brand identity. A ''shark-nosed'' front end inspired by jet fighter air intakes, a distinct wedge-like profile and crisp, taut lines highlight the Lancer's exciting new design.

The 2008 Lancer is based on a new performance-engineered global platform that also forms the foundation of the all-new Mitsubishi Outlander SUV and will underpin the next-generation high-performance Lancer Evolution model. Lancer's comprehensive safety package provides seven standard air bags, including the first driver's knee air bag in a Mitsubishi model. The new-generation Lancer's standard new 2.0-liter DOHC MIVEC 4-cylinder engine is among the most powerful standard engines in its segment, with 152 hp at 6,000 rpm (Federal Tier 2, Bin 5 emissions) and 146 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,250 rpm. (For California, Lancer is PZEV-certified and offers 143 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 143 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,250 rpm.)

The 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer is available in three levels of trim and driving dynamics: DE, ES and the sport-tuned GTS. The Lancer ES model projects a refined appearance with 5-spoke 16-in. alloy wheels, color-keyed door handles and mirrors and a chrome grille surround. The GTS's styling is even more aggressive than on other Lancer models, with 10-spoke 18-in. alloy wheels, front and side air dams, standard fog lights, a rear spoiler and a chrome tailpipe tip.

All Lancer models come with a standard crisp-shifting 5-speed manual transmission. The new-generation Lancer is the first Mitsubishi in North America to offer an optional continuously variable transmission (CVT) in place of a conventional automatic transmission. When equipped with the CVT, the Lancer GTS exclusively features a 6-step Sportronic(R) mode that allows the driver to manually control transmission operation using magnesium steering wheel paddle shifters - a first in the segment. In contrast to a conventional automatic transmission, which uses fixed gear ratios, a CVT operates on a pulley system that allows an infinite variability between highest and lowest available ratios with no discrete steps or shifts. A CVT smoothly adapts to changing vehicle speeds, allowing the engine speed to remain at its level of peak efficiency, helping to improve both fuel economy and exhaust emissions.

The new Lancer is built on a longer wheelbase and wider track - but with a slightly shorter overall length than the previous model. A 2.3-inch increase in both the front and rear track dimensions - now 60.2 in. - sets the stage for the new Lancer's solid, stable handling capability. Wheelbase was lengthened to 103.7 in. from 102.3 in, and overall width is increased from 66.7 in to 69.4 in. Overall length, however, has been reduced by 0.6-in., giving the new Lancer a more road-hugging attitude that is especially evident with the GTS model's 18-in. wheels. Lancer's highly rigid unibody body structure, which makes extensive use of high-strength steel, allows for sport-oriented suspension tuning while also providing a smooth, compliant ride. Compared to the previous-generation Lancer, torsional rigidity has been increased by 56 percent, and bending rigidity is up by 50 percent - increases that exceed body stiffness measurements of even the previous Lancer Evolution IX.

Mitsubishi refined the new Lancer's suspension calibration to deliver an international driving character more commonly found in expensive European sport sedans. Front suspension employs strut tower bars that enhance lateral rigidity for precise steering response. The Lancer's sophisticated new multi-link rear suspension is a major factor in providing ride and handling characteristics that might be expected from a more expensive vehicle. Using separate coil springs and shock absorbers helps maximize trunk room. Lancer DE and ES models feature standard 16-in. wheels (steel on DE, alloy on ES) with 205/60 R16 tires. The 2008 Lancer GTS - with the standard 5-speed manual transmission or the optional CVT - combines a sport-tuned suspension - including different stabilizer bars and spring/shock damping rates - with 18-inch wheels and 215/45 R18 tires to make this model an aggressive twisty-road tamer. The GTS's brakes are the same as used on the larger, heavier Outlander SUV, featuring 11.6-in. (294 mm) vented discs in front and 11.9-in. (302 mm) solid discs in rear.

The 2008 Lancer is built around Mitsubishi's next-generation Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) unibody design. The RISE body structure disperses energy loads during side and rear crashes and controls distortion, enhancing occupant protection and also helping to protect the fuel system during a rear impact. The 2008 Lancer's safety package is one of the most comprehensive in the segment and includes an advanced dual front air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with occupant sensors, standard front seat-mounted side-impact air bags and side curtain air bags, plus a driver's knee air bag. The Lancer ES and GTS models include as standard an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), which is available as an option for the DE model. All Lancer models feature a tire pressure monitoring system.

As with the exterior, the Lancer's interior is characterized by clean and crisp surfaces, free of gimmicks and using high-quality materials and marked by careful attention to detail. Each trim line is distinguished by its own distinct seating materials and interior trim. The overall instrument panel shape and design contribute to a more spacious interior feeling than seen in some competitors. The roomy feeling is no illusion, as the Lancer provides 94.8 cu. ft. of passenger space (93.3 with the optional sunroof). Precision-designed detailing on all controls lends a high-touch, high-tech feel. The short-stroke switches also impart a feeling of quality and solidity, and audio switches are finished in piano black for an upscale appearance. Metallic-like trim highlights the shifter bezel, and also the steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls switches in the ES and GTS models.

All Lancer models for 2008 come pre-wired for accessory SIRIUS(R) Satellite Radio. This in-demand feature is also included in the optional Sun and Sound Package that is available for the ES and GTS models, where it is combined with a power glass sunroof, SIRIUS(R) Satellite Radio with 6 month pre-paid subscription and a 650-watt (max.), Rockford-Fosgate(R) Premium Audio system - the most powerful factory-installed audio system in the segment. Similar to the option offered for the new-generation 2007 Outlander SUV, the audiophile-quality Rockford-Fosgate system has been custom-tuned for the Lancer's interior acoustics to reproduce all types of music with remarkable clarity and power. The system includes a 6-CD in-dash head unit with MP3 playback capability and features an audio input jack to connect an iPod(R) or similar media player. The Lancer's Rockford-Fosgate system plays through nine speakers in seven positions, including a trunk-mounted subwoofer.

The sport-tuned GTS is also the technology leader of the Lancer line, featuring a standard with a Bluetooth(R) wireless technology cell phone interface system with voice recognition microphone for hands-free calling (available for the ES model). The GTS model is exclusively available with the optional Navigation and Technology Package, which combines a 30-gigabyte hard drive navigation system with digital music server function, the Mitsubishi Multi-Communication System and the FAST Key (Freehand Advanced Security Transmitter) entry system. FAST Key allows the driver to unlock the vehicle simply by having the remote in a pocket or purse and grasping the handle on either of the front doors or the trunk.

by Mitsubishi

The Mitsubishi Lancer was first introduced in 1973, and since that time, more than six million examples have been sold. It has carried many different names, sold by different manufacturers, and came in different shapes and sizes. Since the car's inception, it has proven to be a solid competitor in rally competition. It has been a very versatile and capable automobile.

When first introduced, it joined Mitsubishi's other models, which included the Galant, their compact car, and the Minica Kei car. The Lancer fell into ranks between these two models, serving as the company's lower-to-middle-class vehicle. When introduced, it was offered in twelve different trim levels, including the base 1.2-liter sedan, and ranging towards the rally-prepared 1600 GSR. Two body styles were offered, the 2-door coupe and the 4-door sedan. There was also a five-door station wagon, but the production levels on this never reached very high. A hatchback was added in 1975, called the Mitsubishi Lancer Celeste, and offered with either a 1.4- or 1.6-liter engine. A 2.0-liter unit was later added.

The second generation of the Mitsubishi Lancer was introduced in 1978 and remained in production until 1983. The only body style offered was the four-door sedan; two engine sizes were available, a 1.4- and 1.8-liter four-cylinder unit. The big news for this generation was the addition of the Lancer EX, which brought with it a turbocharger for the 1.8-liter engine.

In 1982 the next generation of the Lancer was introduced. A new model was launched, dubbed the lancer Fiore and based on the Mitsubishi Mirage. This generation of the Lancer was offered in a 3-door hatchback, 4-door sedan, 5-door hatchback, and five-door station wagon. The 1.6- and 1.8-liter engines were still available. A diesel version was introduced, and fuel-injected and turbocharged versions were offered.

The station wagon was added in 1985, and it was followed quickly by a four-wheel-drive version.

In 1988 the next iteration of the Lancer began and would persist until 1992. The design changed; the car became less boxy and more aerodynamic in appearance and principle. The edges became more round and modern. The shape followed the design of the Galant.

By now, the Lancer name was being shared with the Dodge Lancer, which was being sold in the United States by Chrysler Group. In Japan, the model was known as the Mirage Aspire.

This generation of the Lancer was sold as a 3-door hatchback, four-door sedan, and 5-door hatchback. Front and four-wheel drive were available.

In 1991, the differences between the Mirage and the Lancer became even greater, though both were still built on the same platform. In the North American market, the Lancer was sold as the Eagle Summit.

A V6 engine, which displaced just 1.6 liters, was introduced and powered the Mirage, along with other Mitsubishi cars. It would even become the power source for one of the HSR Concept vehicles. This V6 engine was the smallest mass-produced V6, a title it retains to this day. Other engine options included a 1.3, 1.5, 1.8, and 1.6-liter four-cylinder engines. The 1.3 and 1.5-liter versions were SOHC, while the rest were DOHC. The 1.8 was created in both SOHC and DOHC fashion. The standard gearbox was the five-speed manual, with the four-speed automatic being sold as optional equipment.

The big news was the Lancer GSR, which had a high-performance turbocharged engine and would form the groundwork for the Lancer Evolution, commonly known as the Lancer Evo, which began in September 1993. The Evo used the drivetrain of the Galant VR-4 rally car, and would soon prove its potential as a high-performance competition machine.

All of the Lancer Evolutions have shared a two-liter, turbocharged engine and four-wheel-drive system. The Evolutions, prior to version V, are the officially-approved models for Mitsubishi's efforts in the World Rally Championship's Group A class and SCCA Pro Rally Championship. The cars are built on the same platform as the other Lancers, but given many performance upgrades and mechanical improvements.

Lancer Evolutions continue to race in Group A and Group N classes.

The seventh generation of the Lancer was introduced in 1995 and produced until 2000. It continued the Lancer's successful formula of enjoying strong sales throughout the world. In Japan, the name for the sedan and wagon continued as the Libero; related Mirage models were still available. The Coupe was known as the Mirage Asti in Japan and the Lancer Coupe in the rest of the world.

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution V is the only Mitsubishi to earn the WRC Constructors Championship for its marque. Tommi Makinen has claimed four WRC Drivers Championships, from 1996 through 2000, in a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (IV, V & VI). Makinen has driven Mitsubishi's in most of his WRC career. The exception being a Ford Escort RS Cosworth in 1994 and a Subaru Impreza WRC in 2002.

The eighth generation of the Lancer was introduced in 2000 in Japan. Most of the other markets continued with the seventh generation. The 8th gen Lancer was available in a four-door sedan configuration or as a station wagon.

Styling changes for the Lancer occurred in 2004 and 2005 for the North American market. The grille was given more fins so it was closer in design to the American version of the Galant. The facia was changed slightly again in 2006.

The Sportback and Ralliart were introduced to the US in 2004. Both of these trim levels brought more equipped and bigger engines. The Sportback has a 160 horsepower engine, and the Ralliart was just a little higher, at 162. For both, the suspension had been improved, resulting in better handling and performance. The cars were lowered, and 16-inch alloy wheels could now be found on all four corners. The aerodynamic ground package, fog lamps, and front bucket seats completed the ensemble. The Ralliart was given clear rear tail lights and a rear deck spoiler, which did little except enhance the car's appearance. All Sportbacks were equipped with an INVECS-II automatic gearbox. The Ralliart had the five-speed manual as standard and the four-speed automatic as optional.

Slow sales and financial difficulties for Mitsubishi had the Sportback canceled after just one year.

The Mitsubishi Concept X was unveiled to the public at the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show; Concept-Sportback was shown a little while later at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The new lancer drew its design inspiration from both of these concepts, which was officially unveiled at the 2007 Detroit Motor Show. Sales for this generation of the vehicle went on sale in the US in March of 2007. it is available as a four-door sedan.

by Dan Vaughan