2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

THE INCOMPARABLE HIGH-PERFORMANCE SPORTS SEDAN

Carrying the storied lineage of a World Rally Championship (WRC), the rally racing-inspired 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution returns unadulterated for the 2012 model year with its 291 horsepower, all-aluminum 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) dynamic full-time all-wheel drive system. The 2012 Lancer Evolution continues to be offered as two models: the GSR and MR. The Lancer Evolution GSR comes with a stout 5-speed manual transmission and is well-equipped in standard features. The Lancer Evolution MR comes with an ultra-quick 6-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST) and is packed with even more performance-oriented equipment, adding MR-exclusive features such as lightweight two-piece front brake rotors and BBS forged-alloy wheels, upgraded Bilstein shock absorbers and Eibach springs, and High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps. The ultimate sports sedan retains its motorsports-ready performance in a refined package for daily use.

EVOlutionary Design
The Lancer Evolution takes the sharp looks found on the Lancer and adds an aggressive homologated race car look. Blistered front and rear fenders to accommodate wide 18-inch wheels, an aggressive front bumper with large inlets to provide cool air to the front-mount intercooler, and vented aluminum hood and front fenders to help evacuate hot air from the engine compartment are all aesthetic improvements that add function. The center inlet vent on the aluminum hood acts to cool the exhaust manifold and turbocharger exiting the engine on the firewall side of the engine bay.


On the trunk of the Lancer Evolution, a tall downforce-increasing rear spoiler finishes off the GSR model and a sleek rear lip spoiler completes the styling of the MR model.



Based on the highly rigid global C-platform, the Lancer Evolution employs high-tensile steel for decreased weight and increased strength. The hood, front fenders, roof, front and rear bumper beams, suspension control arms and engine long block are all constructed of lightweight aluminum. For improved front-to-rear weight distribution, the windshield washer fluid tank and battery have been relocated inside the trunk area.

Inverted MacPherson strut (front) and multi-link (rear) configurations are unique to the Lancer Evolution's suspension. The MR model utilizes Bilstein dampers and Eibach springs for further improved performance.

Únstaggered 18 x 8.5-inch wheels (Enkei cast-alloy on GSR and BBS® forged-alloy on MR) on all four axles wear high-grip 245/40R18 Yokohama ADVAN asymmetrical performance tires. The track-ready Brembo braking system uses 4-piston calipers with 13.8-inch diameter rotors up front and 2-piston calipers with 13.0-inch diameter rotors in the rear. Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and 4-channel Sport ABS are technological assists. The MR model uses lightweight two-piece brake rotors in the front, saving 2.9 lbs. of unsprung weight per wheel.

Turbocharged 2.0-Liter Engine
The 2.0-liter turbocharged and intercooled inline-4-cylinder engine is constructed of a reinforced cast-aluminum cylinder block and an aluminum cylinder head (engine code: 4B11 T/C). With a bore and stroke both measuring 86.0 mm, the 2.0-liter boasts a 'square' design with a 9.0:1 compression ratio. With its DOHC 16-valve MIVEC variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts, the Lancer Evolution produces an impressive 291 hp at 6,500 rpm and a hefty 300 lb.-ft. of torque starting at 4,400 rpm.

The stainless steel exhaust manifold and turbocharger are located on the rear of the transversely mounted engine, close to the firewall, and help to improve weight distribution. The exhaust system with dual exhaust outlets is free-flowing and gives the Lancer Evolution a throaty exhaust tone.

Transmission: 5-speed Manual Or 6-Speed Twin-Clutch
For the clutch-inclined, the GSR model comes with a 5-speed manual transmission with a precision short-throw shift linkage. The premium MR model comes with a Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST).

The TC-SST operates two wet multi-plate clutches to toggle through gears quicker than a standard automatic or manual transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com) Shifts are lightning quick, with almost no perceptible lag time. In manual mode, shifts can be made with the console-mounted shifter or the magnesium-alloy steering wheel paddle shifters.
Mitsubishi engineers programmed three automatic drive modes: Normal, Sport and S-Sport. In Normal mode, the Lancer Evolution drives similar to most automatic transmission-equipped vehicles. In Sport mode, 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.

The Lancer Evolution GSR garners a 17 mpg city/23 mpg highway rating from the EPA with the 5-speed transmission and the Lancer Evolution MR achieves 17 mpg city/ 22 mpg highway with the TC-SST.

Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC)
All-wheel drive has been a signature trait in the Lancer Evolution models. Whether its asphalt or dirt, the Evo is renowned for its mechanical grip. The 2012 model does not disappoint, thanks to its Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC). The S-AWC system utilizes several key technologies to maximize traction, including: Active Center Differential (ACD) 4-wheel drive, Active Yaw Control (AYC) rear differential, Active Stability Control (ASC) and Sport ABS brakes.

Harnessing the Active Center Differential (ACD), the S-AWC system is able to manage the electronically-controlled hydraulic multi-plate clutch, allowing up to 50:50 torque split between the front and rear wheels. Data calculated from sensors that read steering wheel angle, throttle opening, wheel speeds, and the vehicle's longitudinal and lateral movements, allows the S-AWC to determine how much the ACD should distribute power. Three driver-selectable traction modes have been pre-programmed: Tarmac, Gravel and Snow.

The Active Yaw Control (AYC) incorporates yaw rate sensors, a planetary gear rear differential and brake force control from the Active Stability Control (ASC) system to appropriate torque output to either rear wheel. By optimizing power delivery, the Lancer Evolution has improved traction and stability under throttle in and out of corners. Active Stability Control (ASC) refers to traction control and stability control systems that regulate brake force and power distribution to each individual axle, preventing wheel slip. For the front wheels, a helical gear-type limited-slip front differential is employed.

The Sport Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) sees an improvement over other ABS systems, thanks to advanced brake pressure and the aforementioned yaw rate sensors.

High Performance/Comfort as Daily Driver
Despite its circuit-ready performance, care was taken to refine the cabin for daily life. RECARO® front bucket sport seats meld lateral support for weekend jaunts with comfort during the daily commute. Creature comforts such as automatic climate control, cruise control, remote keyless entry and power windows, side mirrors and door locks are all included, as is a 6-speaker 140-watt AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with digital signal processor (DSP) and ÚSB auxiliary input. The Mitsubishi FÚSE Handsfree Link System™ allows users to wirelessly connect to their Bluetooth®-enabled cell phone, iPod® or ÚSB drive by using their voice. As a finishing touch, the new gloss-black instrument panel trim and black sport fabric interior add a subtle but premium look to the cabin.

For finer accoutrements, the MR model is available with a Touring package that adds heated leather seating to the RECARO® front seats, a glass power sunroof, improved sound insulation, rain-sensing wipers, automatic on/off headlamps and heated door mirrors.

Safety
The 2012 Lancer Evolution is built with a unibody that incorporates Mitsubishi's next-generation Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE). In case of a side or rear impact, the RISE design acts to safely disperse energy away from the vehicle's occupants and fuel system. The supplemental restraint system (SRS) with occupant sensors can deploy up to seven air bags: two front, two seat-mounted side-impact air bags, two side curtain air bags and a driver's side knee air bag.
A Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is also included.

Source - Mitsubishi