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Can you Guess What Mods Have Been Done?

This is the 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X. Though Mitsu has lightly disguised it as the Prototype X concept car for the 2009 Detroit Auto Show, this turbocharged, all-wheel-drive sedan is the Evo X. No doubt about it. We’re so sure about it that we’ll just refer to the Prototype X as the next Evo X for the rest of this report.

Few production cars are as focused or as frenetic as the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. Since 1992, the all-wheel-drive Evo has displayed its winning magic not only in the World Rally Championship for which it was created but also on open roads from London to Los Angeles. It’s even a must-have machine in the virtual world of Gran Turismo.

The Prototype X anticipates the long-awaited introduction of the production 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X at the Tokyo Motor Show later this fall. When the car arrives, it will be the best-looking, fastest-cornering Evo yet. It will also represent a significant shift in the car’s personality as it becomes an all-around performance automobile, not just a slightly civilized competition car.

After nine generations, Mitsubishi’s cult car has an all-new chassis platform and an all-new engine. Even Mitsubishi’s all-wheel-drive hardware has received a high-tech makeover.

Mitsubishi introduced a concept version of the next-gen EVO at the 41st Tokyo Motor Show named the Mitsubishi Concept-X.
It is said to be put into production by mid 2009..

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X will feature a completely redesigned chassis and computer system. It will boast a new all wheel drive system that will control braking, throttle input, and real-time suspension adjustment (all together called S-AWC, or Super All Wheel control) simultaneously with the Active Center Differential. The S-AWC uses torque vectoring to send different amount of torque to any wheel at any given time. It will also featue an automatic six speed double-clutch transmission with steering-mounted magnesium alloy shift paddles.Mitsubishi debuted the Prototype-X concept at the 2007 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, Michigan, USA.There is speculation among the press that the concept is in fact a lightly disguised Lancer Evolution X, and the production model will have minimal differences at most

It takes just one glance at this car’s sleek exterior to realize that it’s no longer business as usual in the Mitsubishi’s design studio. Gone is the souped-up look of a Tokyo taxi and in comes a lean, purposeful shape with great proportions. Though it’s disguised by projector-beam headlights and fast-acting LED taillights, this is a new sort of Mitsubishi, far more European in character than ever before.

There’s plenty of aluminum in the bodywork, including the hood, roof and the distinctive square-section fender blisters. Twin exhausts are an Evo first, and help improve the look. A tall rear wing has quickly become an Evo trademark, so it’s no surprise that it continues here (although it’s no longer made of carbon fiber). The same goes for the aerodynamic diffuser that peeks out from underneath the rear bumper.

The 20-inch wheels seen on this car won’t make it into production and will be replaced by 18-inch rims.

The Evo uses the new Mitsubishi Lancer chassis, itself based on a platform originally developed in partnership with DaimlerChrysler. The Lancer is actually 0.6 inch shorter than before, but the wheelbase has been stretched 1.5 inches to 103.7 inches. The car is 2.7 inches wider and 3.8 inches taller. The chassis is more rigid in bending and torsion has improved more than 50 percent, but it’s unfortunately also about 200 pounds heavier.

Mitsubishi engineers hope that an all-new turbocharged inline-4 will provide enough power to cope with the extra weight. Designated the MB11, this all-aluminum, DOHC 2.0-liter design has symmetrical cylinder dimensions, which should deliver free-revving performance. Mitsubishi’s MIVEC variable-valve-timing technology has been applied to both camshafts to broaden the power band. Mitsubishi has also done its best to engineer this aluminum-block, open-deck engine to withstand the stress of turbocharging as well as the former iron-block 4G63 design.

Mitsubishi is remaining tight-lipped about power and torque figures from the turbo MB11 for now, but we expect horsepower to increase to 320 hp from 286, while torque will climb to 325 pound-feet from 295. This power should enable the Evo to sprint to 60 mph in less than 4.5 seconds.

More big news comes from the availability of a six-speed, dual-clutch transmission like Volkswagen’s DSG unit. Shift paddles are mounted on the steering wheel, while a switch on the console delivers three different shift modes. For purists, a six-speed manual gearbox option will also be offered.

The Evo X’s most significant piece of high-tech kit will be the addition of Mitsubishi’s Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) technology. It begins with the most elaborate form of the current Evo IX’s all-wheel-drive system, which includes Active Center Differential (ACD), Active Yaw Control (AYC) and Active Stability Control (ASC). S-AWC adds active suspension, active braking control and active steering to enhance the Evo’s AYC for quicker steering response and faster cornering speeds.

In April 2006, we sampled an early Evo X prototype fitted with only half of the S-AWC package, featuring upgraded AYC and active braking control. Even then, we noted the clever integration of heightened AYC reaction, and active brake control enabled us to more precisely control power delivery and achieve quicker times through a slippery slalom course. The car felt more composed, as less steering lock was required to cut through the cones, while the rear wheels tucked in nicely and obediently followed the fronts.

With the addition of active suspension and active steering systems to the production Evo X, we expect even sharper steering response and a more composed ride. Better still, the steering should feel as natural and progressive as it does in the Evo IX.

The new braking setup features a combination of a revised Brembo four-piston caliper with drilled rotors, and the electronic stability system doesn’t seem to engage the antilock braking effect until you’ve exhausted the S-AWC’s ability to maintain traction. So the fun zone is even larger than before, yet it’s still easy to bring the car under control once you finally scare yourself.

Inside, the new cabin is a huge improvement over the current model’s bland effort. New Recaro seats envelop the driver. (The suedelike inserts in the seat upholstery unfortunately are a feature only of the concept car.) Overall, the materials achieve a higher standard, although the design cues are much the same. A navigation system will be available, while the showcar features a premium sound system with a huge trunk-mounted subwoofer.

Improved ergonomics also reward dedicated drivers, as the three-position switch that dials the center differential to different torque distribution settings for pavement, gravel and snow has been relocated from the dashboard to the steering wheel.

This was originally the concept for the 2008 Evo X but due to the recent release of the WRX STi, this Concept will be later introduced. We should expect 305 hp from the 310 EVO with an interior/exterior more like a luxury car. The best of both worlds!!

I've been speaking with many WRX owners as well as Subaru Dealerships regarding a growing issue with the WRX. Apperently the WRX, specifically the STi has stability issues. Many racers or even street mod enthusiasts have been blowing STi Motors due to simple stage 1 mods.

Wow!!! I hope we don't blow our motor in our STi!! If you noticed, we purchase cars and tune them with the best mods we can think of. Then we donate the cars to charity!!

One thing is certain, the turbo lag is definitely the biggest downfall of the stock MR. When you are running the air conditioning in first gear there is almost zero power before the turbo kicks in. That is partially because of the Automatic tranny. It's more of a hesitation than lag. With some bolt on upgrades you can easily minimize the "lag".

We have a list of bolt on upgrades that will significantly reduce this issue. These are DIY upgrades so there is no need to pay someone to do it, I mean you already paid around 35,000 for your car!!

Add these items:

Greddy Racing 70mm Downpipe: EVO X (162.00)

Greddy Racing Ti-C Catback Exhaust: EVO X (945.00)

Injen Cold Air Intake & Upper IC Pipe: EVO X (509.00)

HKS SSQV Blow Off Valve KitL EVO X (261.00)

Have your ECU reprogrammed also. Price varies.

Your Estimated HP will be above 400.

For detailed installation information leave a comment and I will post a pdf.

The Lancer Evo X is one sweet ride that's for sure. But if you would like to make a few upgrades, your going to have to spend quick a few bucks to replace some of the already added features. The Lancer Rallyart would be a perfect candidate, but the 2009 does not have a true manual shifting system.


We have to ask ourselves, "What do I want out of my Evo?". If your answer is to be unbeatable on the track then your going to need a few bucks in the bank to make it happen. Our EVO X Project is estimated to be about 86,000.00 us.

If you are in the market for a lancer than hold out for the 2010 Evo X MR w/ Stock Dual Exhaust and a few extra upgrades to the handling (AYC). AYC is featured in the 08 and 09 models and allows your to corner and take turns a bit faster and harder than the EVO VIII & all stock STi's. The Lancer Evo X weighs about 331lbs more than the Evo VIII, but the increase in torqe (about 11 pounds-feet) and increase in horsepower makes up for the extra weight.

So why does it weigh so much more? The Manufacturer added 7 air bags including various side curtains, passenger and knee bags. Also the sturcture had been altered a bit as well to increase the impact saftey rating. Seeing as how this is not a limited release like the New Nissan GT-R, they need to appeal to a much larger crowd. I'm sure those idiots who consistently get into accidents while street racing had a little to do with it.

Our EVO X Project:

Car: 2009 Lancer Evolution X GSR
Total Budget: 86,000.00



So, lets get down to it. The first thing we did was tear down our brand new block and sent it off to JKS for a 2.4L custom bore and stroker kit. Our friends at JKS were kind enough to push the limits for us and custom forge a stroker kit for the 2.4L bore.

Day1&2:

After we got our block back, we tore down the top half and got right to work on rebuilding the head. Since the 4B11 has not been out long enough for decent valve, cam, and main/head stud kits to be released so we had to use Cosworth Kits increasing our lift to approx 11.6mm intake and 11.0mm exhaust. A little lag on the exhaust side but no matter we will soon change the kit out with a better one when it is released. We also upgraded to some HKS EVO X Head Gaskets 1.6mm Thickness to maintain the appropriate compression ratio to accommodate the bore.

Day3:

Next we are going to upgrade the injectors, rails and the fuel management. For the Fuel Pump we ended up using a modified sending unit with an in tank Walbro 255 lph fuel pump, and an external inline Walbro 255 lph fuel pump. For injectors we are using HKS 1000cc Top Feed Injectors. These are a limited item which requires a special order from HKS directly in most cases. For rails we are using the HKS rail upgrade kit along with HKS's adjustable fuel pressure regulator for added performance.

For fuel management, we will touch on that later. For now, we will continue to power/spark.

We know we needed something a little extra for optimum spark duration and maximum output. We decided to stay within the HKS family. No reason other than quality/longevity. HKS is known for parts that last so if your going to spend the money only spend it once.

We installed our HKS Twin Power CLI II along with the HKS Twin Power Harness which is required for use of the amplifier.

For Air, we upgraded te intercooler piping with the HKS Intercooler Piping Kit for the EVO X. We Also add a Blitz Carbon Suction Box for the stock cold intake which allows for a richer airflow to increase throttle response.

Day 4&5:

Turbo Time!!

We used the GT35R Twin Scroll Turbo with the following:

2 Tial 44mm External Wastegates Oil Lines w/Fittings Water Lines w/Fittings
1 Twin Scroll Header
2 Wastegate Dump Tubes
1 3 inch Downpipe - Replaced with Apexi GT EVO X Down Pipe
1 2piece Upper Intercooler Pipe
1 Turbo Suction Pipe

We are going to use an Agency Power Catback True Dual Exhaust w/ Titanium Tips: EVO X System with an Agency Power Cat Delete Pipe: EVO X, an Apexi GT EVO X Down Pipe and we are going to bring in out exhaust/turbo manifold in a few days.

Ah, so you ask why are you using a cat delete pipe instead of a high low cat? Well the answer is simple. Cause we don't live in California! The cops out here rarely check your cars and when they do they use a ground mirror. To address that issue, we custom welded heat shields from another Catalytic to the cat delete pipe for looks. As for emissions, since the fuel/oxy mix is so rich, we will have to remount the stock cat temporarily for the test. That's why we are using the Agency Power System for the true bolt-on feature. To help with this as well as performance we also installed the Apex'i SAFC NEO Air/Fuel Controller replacing our HKS Fuel Regulator; Muahahahahahaha!!!

We won't actually gain much more from using a cat delete but we enjoy getting away with it.

We needed a way to regulate the boost. So we installed the GreddyPRofec e-01 Turbo Management System. This allows us to adjust start gain, boost, wastegate response and a few other things as well. This sweet little toy came with a remote!

Day6:

Ok, well we realized that the stock intercooler system was a bottle-neck for our current set up so we ordered a Black Perrin Front Mount I/C along with new I/C Pipes. While we waited for them to arrive, we pulled out our ECU and shipped it off for tune flashing and upgraded our Fuel Pump. We ended up using a Modified sending unit with in tank Walbro 255 lph fuel pump, and an external inline Walbro 255 lph fuel pump.

Day7:

Conveiniently, we rested! LOL!!! It just so happens that we are still waiting the ECU so we can't test out our new I/C set up and Fuel system upgrades. :(

So we wait.........and wait...... and......

Day10:

Sweet!!! it's here!!!!

After we put our ECU in we were so excited we took it out on the street immediately!!!! We took it out east of Aurora heading towards Watkins near the Aurora Res. and of course with our luck there just happened to be an Arapahoe Sheriff pulled off the road eating lunch!! The only thing going through our minds was, "Shit!!!!"

We were only going 120 so when the sheriff pulled onto the road to tail and clock us we had slowed down to 95 and received a $250 ticket. Not bad... considering.

So for the rest of the day we basically tweaked our boost, fuel and air to match our ECU's new program.

Day11:

After a few test drives we realized that the stock clutch system was not at all sufficient for our current HP and Torque Levels. So we upgraded our clutch to the ACT XTSS setup. We chose this setup because we would still like have every day drive ability. If you are wondering what the ACT stages are, here is a parts diagram of usages:


Click to enlarge











Well our NO2 -less Evo is now ready for the track!!

Any Mod recommendations? Or do you feel we missed something? Comment on our blog to let us know.

We will be uploading pictures soon so keep checking back!

Ok,

So we just added up to 109 HP with the custom tuning of the ECU by Vishnu Performance, added our Cat Back System, Down Pipe, High Flow Cat and Our Boost Emulator. But we want Even MORE hp!!!

Muahahahaha!!!

Just joking... I know kinda corny. Whatever.

I'm sure your thinking, how the hell can we get more horsepower than that without doing a complete overhaul and machining of our engine? Which if done your Evo would be the most badass car on the planet!! If you had an additional 40k or so. But non of us do so lets continue to our cheap ass way.

First, your going to NOT PURCHASE the $1995 400 HP package in my last post!

Your going to purchase the Evo IX Stage Subzero (v380) Package Located Here. This package will cost you $750 plus your shipping cost. Know that you will have to pull your ECU and ship it to them for reflashing of the rom. Get shipping insurance! And pay the extra for faster shipping as they will generally ship it back to you in a few days. For instructions on how to pull your ECU click here.

Now, its time to upgrade your exhaust system to dual with the following:

Agency Power Catback Dual Exhaust w/ Titanium Tips Located Here. (Aprox $1000)

(Cat Delete Shown But Not Included)

Agency Power Cat Delete Pipe Located Here. (225.00)


Greddy Racing 70mm Downpipe Located Here. (162.00)


Megan Racing 70MM Turbine Outlet Elbow Located Here. (137.50)
(Optional For Less Turbo Lag And Boost At Lower RPM. This Does Not Add HP, But Does Increase Performance and reduces turbo lag.)




Or If You Have A Single Exhaust System:

APS 3.5" Turbo Back SS Exhaust System Located Here. (1749.95)

This is a True Bolt On System. With A 3.5" Pipe, you will only gain about 20 HP So Approx 5 Less Than The Dual Pipe.

Keep in mind that the Vishnu ECU Flash is meant for an Evo at low altitude in California so your performance increased may not be as much as they claim. They are using a program for an Evo they have already tuned for that altitiude and not for your altitiude.

All in All, for less than 2,500 dollars, your Evo VIII could have well over 400 HP.

I found an awesome way add over 100 HP to your Lancer Evo VIII, IX and X!. Using an incredibly easy to install package from Vishnu Performance Systems, Your Evo can be running 400 HP for just $1995.00!! This is so easy to install your grandma could do it with one arm, one eye and half a leg!

This is a 2 hr install.


The Performance Package includes the following:

XFlash Reprogrammed ECU
Passive Boost Solenoid Emulator
Standard Series Downpipe
Standard Series High-Flow Catalyst
Standard Series Catback

Your Performance increase includes:

0-60mph in 3.8 seconds
Standing 1/4 mile in 12.1 seconds at 114mph








(Please let them know where you got the information, I would like a little kick back from these dudes, preferably my own kit!)




Here is the contact info:

Vishnu Performance Systems
Sales and Tech Support Please Ship ECU's Here
316 South Eagle Nest Lane
Danville, California 94506

Vishnu Performance Installs
1260 Pacific St.
Union City, CA 94587

Email:	sales@vishnutuning.com
Phone:	(925) 648-7863
Fax :	(925) 648-8042

Website: Vishnu Performance

Description: Brian Crower EVO 8 & 9 Stroker Kit (800HP) [BC BC0108]
The BC stroker kit for the Mitsubishi 4G63 engine platform incorporates a 102mm stroke, 7 bolt crank. Depending on bore size that you decide, the BC kit will take you up to a 2.4L with 86mm bore. The 4G63 kit utilizes premium steel billet connecting rods. As usual, each BC kit features custom CP pistons, highest quality, steel alloy wrist pins, full ring pack and buttons. BC 4340 billet steel, 7 bolt crankshaft (102mm stroke). Pro Series billet rods w/ARP 220,000 psi fasteners. CP aluminum forged pistons (any bore size, any compression ratio) 5100 Series carbon steel alloy wrist pins, (9310 pin upgrade available) Ductile iron plasma top rings, tapered second ring, low tension oil rings. Fully system balanced and ready to install. Bore:86MM( 1 mm larger then stock) Stroke:102MM ( 14MM longer then stock) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- According to their website, you can gain up to 500hp just by boring out your engine and upgrading your pistons and crank? Wow! For $3,300.00 I would do that in a second!! Too bad if actually requires much more than that. To gain this amount of HP, your looking at multiple upgrades including a stroke kit and bore. The website that sells this kit is located here: https://rallysportdirect.com/static/brian-crower-evo-stroker-kit-800hp-p-3748.html

Wallpaper

Mitsubishi Motors UK has taken the wraps off the fastest saloon car ever produced by a major manufacturer. Built to celebrate the thirtieth anniversary of Mitsubishi's entry into the UK market, the new Lancer Evolution VIII MR FQ400 will be built in a limited edition run of just 100 cars, and is available to order now priced £46,999 (approx. $85,000).

The car was the brainchild of Mitsubishi Motors UK's Sales & Marketing Director, Lance Bradley. 'The new Lancer Evolution VIII MR FQ400 is the ultimate expression of who and what we are as a brand. This is a versatile four-door saloon that can out accelerate supercars costing almost ten times as much.'

The new model is based on the Lancer Evolution VIII MR FQ320 and was developed in the UK by Mitsubishi Motors UK's motor sports department, in association with tuning specialists Rampage, Owen Developments and Flow Race Engines. Together, they modified the Lancer's legendary 2.0-litre turbocharged engine so that it now produces a mighty 405 bhp and 355 lb-ft of torque.

This is enough to propel the FQ400 from 0-60 mph in an incredible 3.5 seconds and on to a top speed in excess of 175 mph. It is a performance that even some of the world's most exotic supercars struggle to match. The £330,000 Porsche Carrera GT, for example, requires 3.9 seconds to sprint from 0-62 mph, while the ultra-exclusive Pagani Zonda needs 3.7 seconds. The BMW M3 – hitherto the benchmark ‘everyday supercar' – takes 5.3 seconds to achieve the same feat.

The key to the MR FQ400's performance lies not just in its engine, but also in its sophisticated chassis. Like every car in the Evolution VIII MR (Mitsubishi Racing) range, the FQ400 benefits from Mitsubishi's electronically-controlled four-wheel drive system (4WD) and a Bilstein suspension system honed at the legendary Nurburgring Nordschleife racetrack. The introduction of a new braking system on the FQ400 also ensures that it has the ‘stop' to match its ‘go'.

Subtle aesthetic enhancements differentiate the FQ400 from the rest of the MR range and improve its high-speed stability. Ralliart aero mirrors, a carbon fibre front lip spoiler and a ‘sharks tooth' rear vortex generator, are as functional as they are attractive. And it further benefits from gloss black lightweight Team Dynamics alloy wheels and red ‘FQ400' badging.

Inside, the sporting, focussed theme continues with a Momo steering wheel and Recaro bucket seats. The fascia has carbon fibre detailing and there's a discreet plaque next to the gearstick, which reveals the car's production number. The ambience is purposeful but the FQ400 is no stripped out road racer. Electric windows and mirrors and climate control are all fitted as standard, highlighting the Lancer's appeal as the world's most practical and versatile supercar.

As befits its status as an official Mitsubishi Motors UK product, the FQ400 has undergone extensive reliability testing and is supplied with a three years/36,000 mile manufacturer's warranty. This exciting flagship can be ordered now from approved Mitsubishi Ralliart dealers in the UK.

Lancer Evolution VIII MR FQ400 parts list:

Custom built Garrett GT Dual Ball bearing Turbocharger
Owen Developments custom manufactured cast Stainless Steel Exhaust Manifold and Exhaust Elbow
Omega Forged Pistons
HKS Forged Con Rods
HKS 680cc Injectors
Zytec ITP116 High Pressure Fuel Pump
HKS 1.6 mm Steel Head Gasket
Motec M800 OEM ECU
HKS Iridium Spark Plugs
Jan Speed High Flow Sports Cat
Alcon competition derived 240 mm high clamp mode, heavy duty clutch complete with Cera-metallic 6 paddle sprung centred drive plate
HKS High Strength Head and Big End Bolts
Alcon Mono6 Brake Kit incorporating Monobloc 6 pot road caliper with 343 mm curved vein Disc on a Aluminium mounting bell assembly with Ferodo DS2500 brake pads
Ralliart Aero Mirrors
Carbon Fibre Front Lip Spoiler
Carbon Fibre 'Sharks Tooth' Rear Vortex Generator
PIAA High Performance Light and Wiper Upgrade
Gloss Black Team Dynamics Lightweight Alloy Wheels
Driver Training CourseSource - Mitsubishi Press

Mitsubishi Motors UK has taken the wraps off the fastest saloon car ever produced by a major manufacturer. Built to celebrate the thirtieth anniversary of Mitsubishi's entry into the UK market, the new Lancer Evolution VIII MR FQ-400 will be built in a limited edition run of just 100 cars, and is available to order now priced £46,999.

The new model is based on the Lancer Evolution VIII MR FQ-320 and was developed in the UK by Mitsubishi Motors UK's motor sports department, in association with tuning specialists Rampage, Owen Developments and Flow Race Engines. Together, they modified the Lancer's legendary 2.0-litre turbocharged engine so that it now produces a mighty 405bhp and 355lb ft of torque.

This is enough to propel the FQ-400 from 0-60mph in an incredible 3.5 seconds and on to a top speed in excess of 175mph. It is a performance that even some of the world's most exotic supercars struggle to match. The £330,000 Porsche Carrera GT, for example, requires 3.9 seconds to sprint from 0-62mph, while the ultra-exclusive Pagani Zonda needs 3.7 seconds. The BMW M3 – hitherto the benchmark ‘everyday supercar' – takes 5.3 seconds to achieve the same feat.

The key to the MR FQ-400's performance lies not just in its engine, but also in its sophisticated chassis. Like every car in the Evolution VIII MR (Mitsubishi Racing) range, the FQ-400 benefits from Mitsubishi's electronically-controlled four-wheel drive system (4WD) and a Bilstein suspension system honed at the legendary Nurburgring Nordschleife racetrack. The introduction of a new braking system on the FQ-400 also ensures that it has the ‘stop' to match its ‘go'.

Subtle aesthetic enhancements differentiate the FQ-400 from the rest of the MR range and improve its high-speed stability. Ralliart aero mirrors, a carbon fibre front lip spoiler and a ‘sharks tooth' rear vortex generator, are as functional as they are attractive. And it further benefits from gloss black lightweight Team Dynamics alloy wheels and red ‘FQ-400' badging.

Inside, the sporting, focussed theme continues with a Momo steering wheel and Recaro bucket seats. The fascia has carbon fibre detailing and there's a discreet plaque next to the gearstick, which reveals the car's production number. The ambience is purposeful but the FQ-400 is no stripped out road racer. Electric windows and mirrors and climate control are all fitted as standard, highlighting the Lancer's appeal as the world's most practical and versatile supercar.Source - Mitsubishi Motors UK

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 come in different shapes and sizes. Since the cars 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, included the base 1.2-liter sedan, and ranging towards the rally-prepared 1600 GSR. Two bodystyles 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 bodystyle 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 was 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 of 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 has 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 Lancers 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 eight 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. 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 cars 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 vehicle went on sale in the US in March of 2007. it is available as a four-door sedan.