Mitsubishi Lancer

Brazil : New Mitsubishi plant starts on ASX, Lancer follows

noreply@blogger.com (Mohd Hanafi) — Wed, 10 Jul 2013 00:34:00 +0000

As part of its plan for a BRL1.1bn (US$450m) spend that began in 2010 and runs to the end of 2015, the Souza Ramos Group-owned Mitsubishi Motors plant in Catalão, Goiás state (312km or 195 miles south of Brazilian capital Brasília) last month started assembing the ASX SUV [Outlander Sport in some markets] in both two and four wheel drive versions.

Five models will be produced eventually. Three were launched earlier – the L200 Triton medium size single and double cab pick-ups plus the Dakar mid size SUV. The Lancer will follow the ASX in a year.

Prices of the new model line will range from BRL83,490 (US$37,000) to BRL105,990 (US$47,100), about 5% less than the version until now imported built up from Japan.

The ASX is also assembled in Japan, the US, Indonesia and China.

The larger Outlander, which shares architecture with the ASX/Lancer, is being reengineered as this segment is declining here in Brazil. Since opening 16 years ago, the Catalão plant has buult over 330,000 vehicles.

ASX local content is about 60% and includes engine assembly using some locally made ancillaries. Plans call for localising most components.

For now, the all aluminium two litre/122 cu in engine will run only on petrol but a flexfuel version will be available within the year before the Lancer arrives.

Brazilian engineers last year reengineered the Mitsubishi 3.5 litre/213.5 cu in petrol V6 used in the Triton and Dakar as a flexfuel unit compatible with the local sugar cane derived ethanol. From this month, a flexible fuel 2.4-litre/146.4 cu in I4 will also be offered for both.

Catalão current capacity is 100,000 units a year. A large additional hall housing a new paint shop will be ready in 2014, boosting capacity to 140,000. The automaker expects to employ 4,500 directly by the end of this current investment phase in 2015.

As for assembling the Mirage compact locally, the Brazilian importer is reticent. It would require a large investment to robotise both assembly and body shop/welding lines to assure a competitive entrant in this hard fought, high volume but low price/low profitability segment.

A decision will not be made - publicly - before 2015. If competitive prices for exports around South America at least can be achieved (this will depend on the Brazilian real exchange rate), a Mirage project might yet take off.

Mitsubishi Oman launches three new versions of Lancer EX

noreply@blogger.com (Mohd Hanafi) — Thu, 16 Jun 2011 15:41:00 +0000

Mitsubishi Oman has launched three new versions of the hugely popular Lancer EX and has put a personal face to the launch of the new car. Mitsubishi Oman believes that the owner of a new Lancer EX in Oman is likely to be one of five very distinctive and individual personalities. He or she may be Ambitious; Bold; Calm; Practical or Mysterious.

The calm driver is likely to opt for the new GLS 2.0 that gives them space and luxury but with a six speaker sound system to block out the noise of the city and help them savour a journey that for an individual like this is far more important than the destination itself.

Combing elements of both mystery and practicality is the GLX 2.0 that features a Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution body for safety, ergonomic design, the choice between a 5-speed manual INVESCHI or 4-speed automatic MIVEC gearbox, and roomier interior and manual air conditioning with filter to stay cool this summer and all year round.

Mitsubishi Oman believes that for both the ambitious and the bold driver - there is no option but the Lancer EX GT 2.0. The ultimate driving machine of the range, it has stunning looks and aggressive styling with aerodynamic lines, a racing inspired paddle shift gear changer to shift into overdrive, a Rockford Fosgate premium sound system and a cockpit full of gadget and features that will ensure every drive is a truly memorable experience.

Commenting on the new Lancer EX, Mitsubishi Oman General Manager Mark Tomlinson said: "If ever one of our models had a personality - it is the Lancer EX. This is a fabulous range of a car that through its incarnation as the 'Evo" has become an iconic vehicle around the world."

"This has been loved by Omani drivers in particular for many years and our new and exciting marketing campaign is a way to show to our customers that we recognise it is not just one type of individual who wants to experience the magic of the new 2011 Lancer EX - but a multiple range of personalities. That is why we believe that whatever an individual's personality across the three models of the GLX 2.0, GLS 2.0 and GT 2.0 there is a car that will suit whatever they need," Mark Tomlinson added.

Mitsubishi Oman is introducing a Micro website that will allowing people to down load images, get screen savers of the Lancer EX for their laptops or their mobile phones and be part of the online conversation and find out what kind of personality they are.

Mitsubishi Oman has showrooms in Muscat, Sohar, Musannah, Nizwa, Ibri, Sinaw, Samail, Barka, Ibra, Sur, Jalan Bu Ali, Salalah, Buraimi and Dibba.

2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback Road Test

noreply@blogger.com (Mohd Hanafi) — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 03:01:00 +0000

Rallying, especially at the top-flite WRC level has taken a bit of a hit recently. Manufacturers like Subaru, Peugeot and Mitsubishi, all three of whom had rallying in their blood as far as I knew, stopped their factory efforts. Any car from those manufacturers that you saw on the world’s Special Stages was run by privateers who were forced to pay for their own cars, crews and equipment or else had to find their own sponsorship dollars—it seems to me that as soon as factory money dries up, the slide down the slippery slope has begun and soon the privateers would be gone, too.

But I digress. The Lancer Evolution, or “EVO” still exists amid rampant online rumours that 2011 would be the last year for the model (Mitsubishi has since put the kaibosh on all that, saying production of the EVO continues) so all is not lost.

So, all that being said, when I was offered the opportunity to test the Lancer Sportback seen here I jumped at the chance. When Mitsubishi announced that the weird wagon version of the last gen Lancer would not be returning this time around, I had slightly mixed emotions; I’ve always felt that wagons were a compelling mix of practicality and fun, and proof that you didn’t have to go the SUV/Crossover route to get those qualities. But a wagon body-style alone does not necessarily a great car make, and that Lancer Wagon, well, let’s just say it was abandoned for good reason.

So, needless to say, when I first laid eyes on the Lancer Sportback my interest was most definitely piqued.

The first thing that struck me was the styling—touring car inspired rocker panels, spidery rims, quaint but present roof spoiler and shark-nosed front end are all eye-catching features, especially in Rally Red metallic, identical in hue to what was found on Mr. Makinen’s steed. Our test car was finished in Graphite Gray Pearl, and while not as exciting in hue or name (other colour options include “Octane Blue” and—wait for it—“Wicked White”), it does lend an air of class to a car otherwise aimed fairly directly at a more youthful buying group.

And now I got to drive it.

When I first picked up the car I was pleasantly surprised to see a nice, leather wrapped shift lever protruding from the centre console. I actually had to do a bit of a double take because the seats I was sitting in were finished in leather, the steering wheel I was about to lay hands on was of a nice stitched-leather variety and there was Bluetooth connectivity.

I mean, we ARE in North America, right? How many cars in the North American market that feature aspects like that even offer the option to go with a stick? This side of a few VW products I can’t think of all that many.

Roof-mounted spoiler adds to the car's profile without being invasive

16-inch wheels are well styled but could grow an inch or two

I spend time talking about this because, for me, it is indicative of the sporting ethos behind the Sportback; I remember getting a similar feeling when I first got behind the wheel of the current-gen Outlander SUV back in ’08 when I saw the aluminum paddle shifters peeking out from behind the steering wheel.

Clutch take up is nice and linear; the leftmost pedal was easy to modulate and the bite points easy to determine without being overly intrusive. Plus, you get to rev the great MIVEC engine to your heart’s content without worrying about electronic nannies shifting up just cause your tach needle flicked the 6,500 RPM redline.

And it is a great engine, that. Power is not huge—at 148 horsepower it equals the Elantra we recently drove, a car that weighs less. And, even in that car we felt we could have used a little more.

This is another reason why buyers should be considering the 5-speed manual in the case of the Sportback. When you have control of the revs, it’s a little easier to exploit the powerband and the Lancer revs so quickly and smoothly that the lack of power isn’t as easily felt, a feeling helped by the variable-valve timing architecture of the MIVEC.

Believe me when I tell you that the revs were so stirring that I found myself shifting a little later than I usually would just to feel and hear the car go—not so good for fuel saving (we averaged around 12l/100 km, thanks in no small part to a number of heavy traffic jams) but so very good for the soul.

Also answering the bell when it comes to fun factors is the steering, which is both well connected and well weighted. Around town, power steering boost is fine (although it does take somewhat more work on the part of driver’s than some of the competitors), and when the pace quickens, the confidence that well dialled in steering promises is there.

2.0 L inline-4 is a smooth-revving and willing dance partner

Unlike that aforementioned EVO, the Sportback makes do with front-wheel drive. This is a little surprising considering that one of its main competitors, the Subaru Impreza five-door, provides drivers with Subaru’s great Symmetrical AWD system for similar money to the Sportback I drove. To get Mitsubishi’s All-Wheel Control system (AWC), you have to step up to the Ralliart Edition of the car, which also gives you a turbocharged engine and paddleshift gearbox. And costs $31,998 at base.

That’s not to say the Sportback doesn’t feel planted on the road, but unfortunately the chassis doesn’t quite provide the same dynamicism to match that wonderful engine. I mean, the suspension is a well sorted affair with MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link setup at the rear, aided by both front and rear anti-roll bars that allow for more aggressive turn-in in the twisties. But it’s not going to fool anyone into thinking that they’re driving a sports car.

What it does provide for, however, is a very comfortable ride. Surprisingly so, in fact. Big road imperfections that I swore would shake my bones were neatly swallowed up, and the same goes for railroad tracks, sunken manhole covers and so forth. I do caution potential owners, however, to watch out because the suspension springs and bushings do eventually reach their limit and when they did, I felt the chassis reaction to be a little harsher than expected. It takes quite a divot for this to occur, however and I rarely experienced it. The 16-inch wheels–which are the only size available, and which I find a little small looking compared to the large body panels–can definitely be thanked for such a comfortable ride.

What interior lacks in refinement is made up for--somewhat--with awesome sound system and supportive seats

It’s good that the Sportback is, for the most part, a willing dance partner in the dynamic sense because you’re not going to find a whole to get excited about inside. This generation of the car (the ninth) has been around since the 2008 model year and it’s starting to show its age inside. The switches and dials are well laid out and legible but cheap plastics abound and the whole setup is dull to look at. Not a huge deal, but if vehicles like the aforementioned Elantra with its icy-blue lighting, sharp gauges and almost complete lack of any straight edges (of which there are plenty in the Sportback) are a sign of what current interiors should look like, then the Sportback is a bit of old news. I took particular issue with the red backlit screen used to display radio stations, CD tracks and so forth—it’s too narrow, not bright enough and is too far recessed to easily read on the fly. If only Mitsubishi could have used some of the tech displayed on the sharp LCD screen nestled between the speedo and tach on the infotainment system…

Centre console is a drab affair

But, I can forgive some of this considering how absolutely effective the 710-watt, 9-speaker (plus subwoofer) Rockford Fosgate audio is. I am serious when I say that MP3s played through the Bluetooth sounded better than they did through my Bose headphones. Better still is the ability to skip through songs from wheel-mounted buttons–no reaching for your device required. There’s no need to load your music (in fact, there’s no way to on the Lancer); just hook up the Bluetooth (standard on all Sportbacks), and you’re good to go.

Other good interior features include heavily bolstered seats both up front and in the back (where they are of the quasi-bucket variety), luggage area with an easily-loadable flat floor and up to 57 cubic feet of storage space, with the rear seats folded. A trip to Costco was a breeze.

Loading the Sportback is a breeze thanks to the low, flat floor.

It’s a neat concept, the Lancer Sportback. The hatchback styling and practicality, that great (if a little underpowered) engine, confident ride and those wonderful notes from the audio system are all big selling points–not to mention Mitsubishi’s outstanding warranty coverage. But I can’t help but think that the car, as a whole, could do with a shot of refinement. The door close feels tinny, we talked about the build quality of the interior and the “look at me” factor is lacking inside. A shot of LCD screen here, some rounded edges there and the car might just have it. As it stands right now, the competition is stiff and getting stiffer (a new Elantra hatch is due to arrive this year) so Mitsu is going to have to buck up with the Sportback.

2011 Mitsubishi Lancer GT Specifications

Price as tested: $24,098
Body Type: 5-door, 5-passenger hatchback
Powertrain Layout: Front engine/front-wheel drive
Engine: 2.0-litre inline-4 DOHC w/MIVEC
Horsepower: 148 @ 6,000 rpm
Torque (lb-ft): 145 @ 4,200 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Curb weight: 1,355 kg (2,988 lb)
Fuel consumption: City: 8.6L/100 km (27.4 MPG)
Highway: 6.1L/100 km (38.6 MPG)

info : www.carpages.ca

Mechanical problems end Tom Cave’s Jim Clark Rally

noreply@blogger.com (Mohd Hanafi) — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 03:24:00 +0000

This weekend's Jim Clark Rally ended in frustration for Tom Cave and co-driver Craig Parry, following the failure of the gearbox on their Mitsubishi Lancer EvolutionX, which became stuck in third gear. The JRM team attempted to change the gearbox in the short mid-day service but the complex job took longer than the crew had available and they went OTL (Over Time Limit) and were out of the event.

The event seemed jinxed from the start. Following a successful shakedown, where Tom drove the EvoX for the first time on asphalt, the heavens opened as he drove the second stage and as a result, he lost time to those drivers ahead on the road, who had drier conditions.

He then began to lose his brakes on the following stage and as there was no service between the two loops, was unable to rectify the problem before the second run through the three stages, dropping more time in the process.

He began the second day of the event in a positive frame of mind and was more comfortable in the car, increasing his pace from the first leg. However, towards the end of the day's third stage, the gearbox began to feel nothchy and on the road section back to service, it became stuck in third gear.

A gearbox change was an unavoidable but time consuming job. The JRM team tackled the task but were unable to complete the work before Tom and Craig reached their maximum allowed lateness and therefore, they were out of the rally.

Commenting, Tom said: "This is an incredibly frustrating end to the event. Things were starting to look up for us on the first loop of stages this morning. We were making changes to the car's set-up because of the conditions and to pick up some more pace and it seemed to be working. But towards the end of the third stage, the gearbox started to let go and when we got to the finish board, it was stuck in third.

"I didn't want to force the box and do more damage. The boys tried to change it and did their best but we went OTL. We all tried hard during the event to find some pace and it's so disappointing to finish like this.

"I'm trying not to dwell on the championship position too much. It's a huge learning curve this year and all I can do is try to pull some positives from this and move on. We're doing the Severn Valley Stages next weekend and I'm really looking forward to it."

2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution GSR AWD Sedan

noreply@blogger.com (Mohd Hanafi) — Fri, 03 Jun 2011 05:23:00 +0000

Sale Price $35,175

Mechanical

2.0L DOHC MIVEC intercooled turbocharged I4 engine
5-speed manual transmission
Helical gear-type limited slip front differential
Rear limited slip differential
Super all-wheel control (S-AWC) traction system -inc: tarmac, gravel or snow traction modes, active center differential (ACD), active yaw control (AYC), active stability control (ASC)
All-wheel drive
Independent MacPherson inverted strut front suspension -inc: forged aluminum control arms

Multi-link rear suspension -inc: forged aluminum control arms
Front & rear stabilizer bars
Pwr rack & pinion steering
Pwr ventilated Brembo disc brakes -inc: 4-piston front & 2-piston rear calipers
Dual exhaust pipes
Exhaust finisher

Exterior

18" x 8.5" Enkei cast aluminum alloy wheels
P245/40YR18 Yokohama ADVAN asymmetrical performance tires
T145/70R18 spare tire
Aluminum hood w/heat extractor vents
Aluminum front fenders w/air outlets
Aluminum roof panel
Large rear spoiler
Large side air dam
Front grille w/black mesh

Auto-off halogen headlights
Fog lamps
Side marker lights
Green laminated windshield
UV control front door glass
Color-keyed folding pwr mirrors
Variable intermittent windshield wipers w/washer
Color-keyed door handles

Interior

Recaro cloth front bucket seats -inc: 4-way adjustable driver seat
60/40 split folding rear seat -inc: folding armrest, cupholders, (3) adjustable head restraints
Front center console w/armrest -inc: (2) covered cupholders
Front & rear floor mats
Leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel inc: silver accent
Steering wheel mounted illuminated audio & cruise controls
Key cylinder illumination
Tachometer
Color multi-information LCD display -inc: odometer, dual trip meters, average fuel economy, instantaneous fuel economy, driving distance to empty, average vehicle speed, service reminder, coolant temp readout w/warning, S-AWC status, outside temp, seatbelt reminder
Pwr windows -inc: driver side auto up/down
Pwr door locks
Remote trunk & fuel lid release
Keyless entry w/panic alarm
Cruise control
Anti-theft engine immobilizer
Anti-theft security alarm system
Automatic climate control -inc: micron air filtration, chrome control accents
Rear seat heater ducts

Rear window defroster w/timer
(2) 12V pwr outlets
Front map lights
Ashtray
Geometric printed IP/front door accents
Front door storage pockets
Front door panel bottle holders
(4) retractable assist grips
Rear coat hanger
Cabin light
Driver & front passenger sun visors w/dual vanity mirrors
Trunk lamp
Leather-wrapped shift knob
Leather-wrapped parking brake w/chrome accent
Aluminum pedals
Aluminum scuff plate
Chrome inner door handles

Safety

4-wheel sports anti-lock braking system (S-ABS) -inc: electronic brake force distribution (EBD)
Active stability control (ASC) w/traction control
Front/rear crumple zones
RISE body construction
Driver & front passenger dual stage airbags -inc: front passenger occupant sensor, front/rear side curtain airbags, driver knee airbag, front side impact airbags
3-point safety belts for all occupants

Height adjustable front shoulder belt anchors -inc: pretensioners
Child safety rear door locks
Rear seat LATCH system (lower anchors & tethers for children)
Interior trunk lid release handle
Tire pressure monitoring system

EPA Fuel Economy & Specification

Vehicle Name : Lancer Evolution
Body Style : 4 Door Sedan
Drivetrain : All Wheel Drive
EPA Classification : Compact
Passenger Capacity : 5
Passenger Volume (ft3) : 93.2
EPA Greenhouse Gas Score : 4
Fuel Economy Est-Combined (MPG) : 19
EPA Fuel Economy Est - City (MPG) : 17
EPA Fuel Economy Est - Hwy (MPG) : 23
Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year : 9.8
Engine Order Code : 4B11T
Engine Type : Gas I4
Displacement : 2.0L/122
Fuel System : MIVEC
SAE Net Horsepower @ RPM : 291 @ 6500
SAE Net Torque @ RPM : 300 @ 4000
Trans Order Code
Trans Type : 5
Trans Description Cont. : Manual
Trans Description Cont. Again
First Gear Ratio (:1) : 3.83
Second Gear Ratio (:1) : 1.91
Third Gear Ratio (:1) : 1.33
Fourth Gear Ratio (:1) : 0.97
Fifth Gear Ratio (:1) : 0.76
Sixth Gear Ratio (:1)
Reverse Ratio (:1) : 3.58
Final Drive Axle Ratio (:1) : 3.94
Maximum Alternator Capacity (amps) : 130
Suspension Type - Front : MacPherson Strut
Suspension Type - Rear : Multi-Link
Suspension Type - Front (Cont.)
Suspension Type - Rear (Cont.)
Stabilizer Bar Diameter - Front (in) : 0.98
Stabilizer Bar Diameter - Rear (in) : 0.91
Front Tire Order Code

Rear Tire Order Code
Spare Tire Order Code
Front Tire Size : P245/40R18
Rear Tire Size : P245/40R18
Spare Tire Size : T145/70R18
Front Wheel Size (in) : 18 x 8.5
Rear Wheel Size (in) : 18 x 8.5
Front Wheel Material : Aluminum
Rear Wheel Material : Aluminum
Steering Type : Pwr Rack & Pinion
Steering Ratio (:1), Overall : 13.3
Lock to Lock Turns (Steering) : 2.27
Turning Diameter - Curb to Curb (ft) : 38.7
Brake Type : Pwr
Brake ABS System : 4-Wheel
Disc - Front : Yes
Disc - Rear : Yes
Drum - Rear : No
Rear Drum Diam x Width (in)
Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx (gal) : 14.5
Front Head Room (in) : 40.6
Front Leg Room (in) : 42.5
Front Shoulder Room (in) : 54.7
Front Hip Room (in) : 53.3
Second Head Room (in) : 36.9
Second Leg Room (in) : 33.3
Second Shoulder Room (in) : 54.3
Second Hip Room (in) : 54.1
Wheelbase (in) : 104.3
Length, Overall (in) : 177.0
Width, Max w/o mirrors (in) : 71.3
Height, Overall (in) : 58.3
Track Width, Front (in) : 60.8
Track Width, Rear (in) : 60.8
Min Ground Clearance (in) : 5.5
Trunk Volume (ft3) : 6.9

Machel winning the 2011 Road March

noreply@blogger.com (Mohd Hanafi) — Sun, 29 May 2011 14:31:00 +0000

Soca superstar Machel Montano yesterday collected the keys to his brand new Mitsubishi Lancer motor car from Diamond Motors, his prize for winning the 2011 Road March.
Montano won the crown with his hit tune "Advantage", written by Kernel Roberts. Montano said he was "very honoured" to receive this award, especially because it was the people on the street who made it possible.
He said the prize was not just his, but he would be "sharing the Road March spoils" with Roberts and everyone involved in the production of the song.
Roberts, who was on hand for the ceremony, said he felt overwhelmed by the honour and thanked Montano for the energy he had brought to the performance "and taking it all the way to the finish line, not only for Road March but, also, Soca Monarch."
He also said he was obligated to his late father, calypso legend Lord Kitchener, and that legacy of consistently creating great music.

Lancer GTS

noreply@blogger.com (Mohd Hanafi) — Sat, 28 May 2011 03:17:00 +0000

Compact cars are often ridiculed by drivers of larger vehicles, for they equate what’s out there now with small cars of the past and think the modern article must be a tin box that isn’t as safe or well-equipped as some of the beefier machines out there.

This perception takes a beating when the high price of gas forces a closer look, though – for lo and behold, these same folks then discover that good things come in small packages, and the modern compact is far safer, has more room and features, and gives you more for your money than they ever expected. When you top this sundae with a modest appetite for fuel, all the sudden that four-wheeled aircraft carrier you were navigating to work every day makes less sense.

Mitsubishi’s Lancer is the company’s entry into the incredibly competitive compact sedan category, and manages to have a look and feel that’s all its own. For 2011, all Lancers get styling derived from the ultra-high-performance Lancer Evolution all-wheel drive sport sedan, meaning that even at an entry level, Lancer has ties to one of the most charismatic four-door hot rods on the road today.

We tested a Lancer GTS, and this front-drive sedan comes armed with a 2.4-liter inline four with 168 horsepower and a choice of two transmissions: a close-ratio five-speed manual and a very sophisticated CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) which graced our test mule. This is a really interesting gearbox, in that it has no set ratios while in fully automatic operation, yet has six distinct speeds when in manual mode that you can select via paddle shifters located on the steering wheel. The engine idles with impressive smoothness (a long-time Mitsubishi quality), while 60 mph arrives in just 7.7 seconds. The GTS has a sport-tuned suspension (very nicely calibrated, so the ride isn’t harsh) to further enhance the driving experience, and this in combination with excellent ABS brakes make the Lancer a really entertaining car to drive (especially considering this is an economy sedan, after all). A full compliment of state-of-the-art airbags, as well as traction and stability controls are standard, thus rounding out a loaded résumé of safety features.

Our GTS came with the optional Touring Package that, in addition to including a 710-watt Rockford-Fosgate sound system, features stout leather seating surfaces with good side bolsters in the front sport seats. While the leg and foot room can get tight in the rear seats area when the front seats are moved back for taller occupants, comfort is good and the seatbacks fold forward to increase the trunk’s 11.8 cubic-foot cargo capacity. My only real gripe with this car is the lack of sound deadening insulation in the doors, for the rear ones especially sound less than substantial when you close them.

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX MR - ARC Part

noreply@blogger.com (Mohd Hanafi) — Thu, 26 May 2011 11:14:00 +0000

Diamond in the rough

Since the introduction of Subaru's WRX, including its STI derivative, and the first consumer-marketed Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, many articles have addressed the power and agility of these incredible four-door sedans. From a journalistic perspective, writing anything informational and meaningful about these cars is increasingly difficult. The reason for this is by no means the lack of factory-supplied performance or aftermarket upgrades; quite the contrary, it's the growing popularity and vast amount of performance parts made available from a variety of tuners that makes this subject matter so thorny.

Yet, the easily overlooked fact is that, for an automotive enthusiast, each featured vehicle is as unique as a diamond. No person on this planet is more apt to agree with this statement than one whose vision, persistence and enviably deep pockets are responsible for the brilliance of a finely tuned performance automobile. This is particularly true for Earl Mangune, the owner of a white 2006 Lancer Evolution IX MR.

As an automotive aficionado, Mangune can attest to the irrefutable fact that owning an EVO is more than a simple pleasure; rather it's an expensive addiction. How else could anyone explain the compulsive behavior associated with the attempt to make something essentially perfect even better? After all, the EVO's WRC-spec 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine makes 286 hp and 289 lb-ft of torque straight off the assembly line. However, a true enthusiast's vocabulary doesn't include the word combination "good enough." Better is about more power, faster braking, nimbler handling and distinctive styling. Although the factory EVO IX is a nimble street-legal rally car, much can be done to improve performance in some, if not all of those areas.

Most familiar with automotive performance fundamentals understand the rules of the game; namely that, in terms of tuning, no gain is to be had without certain sacrifices. This is important to keep in mind as the various modifications are considered. This also makes tuning more of an art than a science. Making gains without upsetting the delicate balance that exists between various systems of something as complex as an automobile is always agonizing when striving for perfection.

With that disclaimer out of the way let's identify some of the known issues with the EVO that are worth addressing. The aging 4G63 engine produces an impressive amount of power for a fun-to-drive daily commuter, but the serious go-fast kind of guy like Mangune would find the car slightly underpowered pulling out of corners. This is partly explained by the turbo lag and fuel mapping. Although Mitsubishi has done its part in attempting to address turbo lag with the TD05HR-16G6C-10.5T turbo assembly, which employs a dual-scroll turbine housing, titanium alloy turbine assembly, and increased compressor diffuser cover inlets, the fundamental problem of lag remains.

Arguably, the turbine assembly in the EVO IX is cutting edge; however, Mitsubishi remained conservative with the boost pressure to maintain reliability. After all, one overlooked component of the aforementioned fragile balance is the manufacturer's warranty and potential liability suits that often accompany the performance-oriented EVO IX. Of course, once Mangune committed to sacrificing several warranty items, the door was blown wide open for modifications that made throttle response livelier. Earl opted for one of HKS' fifth generation, race-proven electronic valve controller units to control boost pressure and increase boost pressure stability. In addition, he installed a larger, mandrel-bent HKS downpipe, one of Road Race Engineering's large-body catalytic converters, and ARC's full titanium exhaust to maximize gas flow for a quicker turbo spool. But, in the process of modifying the induction and exhaust systems he upset the balance established by the ECU's programmed fuel maps. Fortunately, XS Engineering's software allowed them to reprogram all of the necessary parameters in the ECU to compensate for the changes. Still, the increased boost pressure resulted in higher intake air temperatures, which needed to be dealt with in order to deliver cool air into the engine. The solution was a more efficient front-mounted ARC intercooler kit. Although measurable engine performance gains weren't immediately available, the observable improvements were evident during the road test. The perkier engine and lightweight flywheel provided more power out of the turns reducing the understeer that's characteristic of the EVO and its Active Yaw Control (AYC) system.

Story of Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

noreply@blogger.com (Mohd Hanafi) — Thu, 26 May 2011 10:13:00 +0000

Closely a part of Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

The Mitsubishi Evolution was a small four door sedan. On the outside it was a boring sedan with a funny looking radiator and a nice set of rims. But if you look closely or know what you’re looking at, you’ll see those “nice rims” are five spoke high performance Enkei rims hiding a set of very nice Brembo calipers that stops this sedan very quickly. The brakes aren’t the only thing helping stop this little puppy, a set of McPherson Struts at all four corners do the job pretty well. The suspension allows this car to do a lot including, stopping, cornering immensely and even taking a couple of jumps. They might be up to the specs of the WRC status but it’ll take a few and then some.
Also helping Mitsubishi Evolution is the AWD System. A center differential controls the torque delivered to each wheel. Then come the options, 5 speed or 6 speed based on which model you buy is which transmission you get. Then, one of these transmissions is bolted to a finely crafted turbocharged 4 cylinder coded 4G63. The 4G63 and these transmissions were directly removed from the WRC victor Gallant VR-4. This motor is puts out 244HP and 228 FT-LBS TQ. This is where the deer gets its legs.
The “EVO” has one of the world’s largest enthusiast scenes in the world today; all Ten versions. Minor changes were made over the first three editions. Then in 1996 Evo got a facelift. New fog lights, spoilers and rims. In 1998 Mitsubishi allowed Ralliart dealers in Europe to get the Evoluiton. 1999 models received yet another face lift; the fog lights were reduced in size and moved over slightly. In 2001 the FIA mandated that WRC racers follow WRC rules for building cars and not the Group A class rules; and so the EVO seven was born. The Evo seven was created based on the new larger Lancer Cedia platform. Mitsubishi beefed up the suspension and added an active center differential as well as new front and rear differentials. They also increased the torque. New shocks, brakes and rims are the highlight of this next facelift in 2003. However, the big news was that the USA was to be receiving the Evolution. Minor facelift in ’05 but the big thing is the addition of the MI-VEC to the 4G63. Finally in 2007 brought the Mitsubishi Evolution X; a completely new EVO.
It would stay this way till 2011 when Mitsubishi decided to step in and interfere with Evolution.

First win of the season 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Mohd Hanafi) — Thu, 26 May 2011 09:26:00 +0000

First win of the season for Jaroslav Melicharek

Slovakian driver Jaroslav Melicharek claimed his first win of the 2011 season last weekend, when he took his MML Sports-prepared and run Mitsubishi Lancer WRC to outright victory on the Tribec Rally, the third round of the national series.

Following on from his third place on the season opener, he drove a dominant rally, claiming six stage wins from the nine stages that made up the one-day event, based in and around Topolclanska.

The Mitsubishi driver certainly didn't have the rally his own way though - he was facing a 2008 Ford Focus WRC, a Subaru Impreza WRCar, a Skoda Fabia WRC and a handful of Super2000 cars, all lightweight, nimble and particularly suited to the tight and twisty tarmac forming the event.

He and the driver of the Focus, Grzegorz Grzyb, swapped position for the lead five times throughout the event, with Melicharek claiming the scratch time on six of the nine stages. By the end of the rally, although Grzyb had a seven second advantage on the road, the fact that he drove straight through a chicane meant he picked up a ten second penalty and therefore, Melicharek took the event win.

Commenting, MML Sports Managing Director John Easton said: "I'm delighted that Jaroslav has taken a win this early in the season. It demonstrates that he is serious about this year's championship and is clearly at home in the Lancer WRC.

"It is also encouraging to know that the Lancer is still extremely competitive, particularly against younger machinery. We know the car is easy to drive quickly, from all the success we've had previously but it is always nice to see it beating World Rally Cars which are at least three years younger."

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X

noreply@blogger.com (Mohd Hanafi) — Thu, 26 May 2011 08:40:00 +0000

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X Review

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is one of the highest and most tremendous versions of Mitsubishi’s car developed machine. This car is launched lavishly automobile segment car which is commencing by Mitsubishi Motors in a dual project with Hindustan Motors.

This car is assembled magnificently the front side of the car is look a lot like shark- nose. It has wide headlamps, elegant rear lamps, spread aluminum alloy wheels and tubeless radial tyres as well and also gives insistent but modish gaze to the car. This car is designed inimitable and has enough legroom. The middle console has a storage compartment, pen holder and drinks holder and the front door has 1L bottle holder as well. This luxurious car also has the foldable tray in the rear seat back rest. This car Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is designed with superior incorporated audio system, dual air conditioning system with heating, ventilation and AC with air quality sensor, hands free mobile plug ins and Bluetooth, and powerful climate control.

This car is also has 2.0 liter, motorized by inter cooled and turbo charged DOHC aligned engine. The engine of this car is outfitted with 4 cylinder, 16 valves and double cam. The engine is artistic with MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve- timing Electronic Control System) and also has five Speed Manual Transmission Gearbox. The engine of this classy car is generating the power of 291 hp at 6,500 and 300 lb.-ft of crest torque at 4,400rmp.

This car is also designed with several different safety features. This car Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X has head manacles with seat belt pretensioner and also has three point seat belts. This car also announced with advanced seven airbags i.e. double stage front SRS airbags, passenger and driver side impact airbags and front and rear side- curtain airbags. This luxurious car also has ABS means Anti Lock Braking System with yaw rate sensors and brake pressure sensors. Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X has ASC feature as well, it means Active Stability Control. This car has RISE means Refined Impact Safety Evolution body chasis which offers you further security and safety. This car also has energy engrossing crumple zones and the car is announced with ample use of high tensile strength steel.