Mitsubishi Lancer.....MasterPiece From Mitsubishi

The development concept for the all-new Lancer Evolution¹ specifies a "next-generation high-performance 4WD global sedan that allows all levels of driver to enjoy the car's speed and handling with ease and in safety". The new model features Mitsubishi's S-AWC² traction and handling system. This advanced all-wheel-drive system integrates a superior level of drive torque distribution and braking management, making this the best handling Lancer Evolution vehicle of the series. This technology when mated to the new, more rigid Lancer platform results in a Lancer Evolution that is highly responsive, offering intuitive handling and a greater degree of control in addition to outstanding vehicle attitude stability. Other examples of Mitsubishi Motors' latest automotive technology to be featured in the new model include a new lightweight, high-performance 2.0-liter turbocharged MIVEC3 engine with aluminum cylinder block and a 6-speed automated manual transmission that contributes to vehicle's exceptional performance while offering improved fuel economy.

Expect the all-new Lancer Evolution sedan will go on sale in North America in the first quarter of 2008



All-Aluminum Engine
Evo freaks worldwide have bemoaned the death of the venerable iron-block 4G63 power plant that has graced every Evo since the model debuted in 1992. As terrifically strong as this engine is, the pressures of emissions compliance and fuel-efficiency dictated the creation of the Evo X's all-new aluminum-block 1,998cc 4B11 engine.

The intercooled, turbocharged 4B11 inline-4 shares its basic architecture with the normally aspirated engine found in the 2008 Lancer, but it has been extensively reengineered for boosted use in the Evo. Unique pieces include a semi-closed deck block, a forged crank with an 86mm stroke and forged connecting rods.

Compared to the former Evo, the 4B11's aluminum block contributes to a 28-pound weight reduction for the new Evo's engine package and also helps lower the car's center of gravity by 10mm (0.4 inch). Full-floating wrist pins result in less internal friction, and the bottom end is underpinned with an aluminum ladder frame supporting four-bolt main bearing caps. The compression ratio rises slightly to 9.0:1 and MIVEC variable valve timing has been fitted to both cams, which are now chain-driven.

Output of the U.S.-specification 4B11 is estimated at 295 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 300 pound-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm, though these numbers might change as final calibration is currently under way.

The new engine is a mighty smooth piece, building boost cleanly and linearly even from low engine speeds and exhibiting a willingness to spend all day around its fuel cutoff at 7,600 rpm. What's more, the drivetrain lash endemic to the Evo IX during rapid on-off throttle transitions has been banished from the new car.

Pricing:-

How much will all of this cost? After tax, the 5MT GSR manual comes out to 3,495,450 yen ($30,473 USD), the Twin-Clutch SST GSR at 3,750,600 yen ($32,697 USD), and the minimalist RS at 2,997,750 yen ($26,134 USD). It's worthwhile to note that post-tax prices in Japan are typically cheaper than stateside out-the-door prices--so you'll possibly tack on an extra grand or two to buy one in North America.