Mitsubishi Unveils Lancer Evolution IX UK Line-Up

Press Release

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX : Summary

·          Latest generation of Mitsubishi’s award-winning supercar on sale 1st June.

·          Prices carried over from Lancer Evolution VIII MR. Start at £27,999 for Lancer Evolution IX FQ-300.

·          Development of special edition Lancer Evolution VIII MR range.

·          Revised front grille and bumper incorporates circular cooling ducts.

·          New rear bumper features a diffuser to smooth airflow under the car.

·          Recaro front seats and Momo steering wheel fitted as standard.

·          Spacious five seater with 530litre boot offering everyday practicality.

·          Introduction of MIVEC valve timing technology combines increased top-end power and improved response with better fuel economy and exhaust emissions.

·          Models available with 305 (FQ-300), 326 (FQ-320) and 345bhp (FQ-340).

·          Flagship FQ-340 sprints from 0-62mph in 4.3 sec (est).

·          High-density dash silencer and extra sealing improves refinement.

·          Bilstein suspension system, introduced on the VIII MR range, further enhanced for use in the Evolution IX.

·          New rear springs reduce the height of the car, improving rear end stability and enabling the Super AYC* system to work more effectively.

·          Advanced four-wheel drive system incorporates ACD* (Active Centre Differential), Super AYC* (Active Yaw Control) and Sport ABS*.

·          All Lancer Evolutions supported by comprehensive 3-year unlimited mileage warranty.

Model range

*see glossary

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX :Introduction

The ninth generation of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution goes on sale 1st June. A subtle but significant development of the special edition Evolution VIII MR, the IX boasts a plethora of detail improvements that enhance the ‘Evo’s’ reputation as the everyday supercar. This car is also significant as the ultimate iteration of the third generation Lancer, which began life in 2001 as the Evolution VII. In 2007, Mitsubishi will launch an all-new and radically different ‘Evo’.

Mitsubishi’s engineers realised long ago that it was no longer appropriate simply to pursue absolute speed. If the Lancer legend was to progress, they needed to develop a new concept of "overall driving quality", which would make the performance more accessible. In other words, they would engineer cars that would flatter and entertain the expert, without intimidating the novice.

The new Lancer Evolution IX embraces this philosophy with the introduction of MIVEC** variable valve timing technology, which constantly matches the inlet valve timing to the engine speed and load. This has the dual effect of improving the engine’s breathing at high revs, while stabilising the combustion process and improving the engine’s efficiency and throttle response at low engine speeds. MIVEC achieves a 3% improvement in fuel economy and a consequent reduction in harmful exhaust emissions.

And the engine’s response is further improved by revisions to the design of the turbo diffuser. Exploiting knowledge garnered in the ultra-competitive World Rally Championship, the diffuser has been lengthened, which has the dual effect of boosting low-end torque and achieving a 10% improvement in the engine’s response throughout the rev range. Such changes are at the heart of Mitsubishi’s desire to maximise the car’s "overall driving quality".

The sophisticated Bilstein suspension system, which was introduced to widespread acclaim on the Evolution VIII MR, is carried over onto the IX with the exception of the rear springs, which are shorter than before. This lowers the body height and allows the Super AYC* system to function more effectively, further enhancing the Lancer’s cornering stability. Mitsubishi’s electronically-controlled four-wheel drive system (4WD), which incorporates Super AYC* (Active Yaw Control), ACD* (Active Centre Differential) and Sport ABS* (anti-lock brakes), is carried over unchanged.

Complementing the mechanical and electronic changes are discreet modifications to the car’s aesthetics. The restyled front bumper frames the Mitsubishi diamond emblem and incorporates a mesh grille that improves the engine cooling. Discreet circular intakes located in the front air dam also feed a supply of fresh air to the intercooler pipes, which can reach 100 degrees Celsius during hard driving. The high quality, metallic grey detail styling of the headlamps is also reflected in the restyled tail lamps.

The rear bumper now incorporates a diffuser that controls the flow of air underneath the car, improving the aerodynamics. Measures have also been taken to further reduce the Evolution’s mass. The carbon fibre wing now boasts a hollow construction and new-design lightweight five-spoke Enkei alloy wheels are fitted as standard.

The simple, driver-focussed cabin of the Lancer Evolution IX is familiar. The carbon fibre detailing introduced on the outgoing MR range, is carried over into the IX and so are the Recaro front seats and exquisite Momo steering wheel. The Evo remains the consummate everyday supercar and the spacious cabin features air-conditioning, electric windows and mirrors, remote central locking and CAT 1 alarm. High speed refinement has been improved with the introduction of a high-density dashboard silencer and improved cabin sealing.

The Evolution IX plans to build on the success of the Evolution VIII and VIII MR, of which 2400 examples were sold through official Ralliart dealers between May 2003 and June 2005. Three versions of the IX will be available in the UK. The entry-level FQ300 boasts 305bhp and costs £27,999; the mid-range FQ320 (326bhp) retails for £29,999 and the flagship FQ340 (345bhp) is priced at £32,999. The latter also boasts an enhanced luxury specification including leather and Alcantara Recaro seats and a SmartNav satellite navigation system.

As you’d expect from Mitsubishi, all Lancer Evolutions sold through the official Ralliart network are covered by a 3-year Unlimited Mileage Warranty, a 3-year Pan European Recovery Service and a 6-year Anti-Corrosion Perforation Warranty.

* see glossary

** Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing Electronic Control System (MIVEC)

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX : Design

Exterior

·          Revised front grille and bumper incorporates circular cooling ducts

·          Distinctive rear bumper features diffuser for enhanced aerodynamics

·          Benefits from Evolution VIII MR’s program of weight loss, including aluminium roof, side impact bars and bonnet

·          Carbon fibre rear spoiler is now of a hollow construction to reduce the car’s mass and lower its centre of gravity

·          Redesigned front and rear light clusters enhance contemporary appeal

·          New design Enkei five spoke alloy wheels

·          Colour range now comprises solid red, white and yellow plus metallic silver, black and blue.

There are few more dramatic sights on the road than the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. Despite its origins as a conservative four-door saloon, the Evo’s dramatic body kit and rally-bred detailing leaves onlookers in no doubt about its purpose. Every last element of this car has been carefully honed to maximise its performance and to deliver the ultimate in driving pleasure. Few cars, anywhere and at any price, are more focussed.

The revisions for the Evolution IX are subtle but significant. The redesigned grille is integral to the front bumper and feeds extra air to the radiator, while echoing the style of Mitsubishi’s World Rally Car. Discreet circular intakes located in the front air dam also contribute to enhanced cooling and supply fresh air to the intercooler pipes, which can reach 100 degrees Celsius during hard driving. Keen Evo spotters will also note the restyled head and tail lamps, which now boast a stylish grey finish.

Complementing the new rear lights is a redesigned bumper that incorporates a diffuser. The diffuser controls the flow of air past the underbody and stops exhaust gas residues collecting on the rear bumper. The new bodywork also enhances the Evolution IX’s purposeful, aggressive stance.

The IX benefits from the mass-saving measures introduced for the special edition Evolution VIII MR (‘Mitsubishi Racing’). Mitsubishi’s engineers were able to save 7.5kg with the introduction of an aluminium roof and side impact bars, to complement the aluminium bonnet that featured on the standard VIII.

The introduction of an aluminium roof was a particularly tough challenge. To maintain the structural rigidity of the steel monocoque while introducing a lightweight roof the engineers reinforced key areas, such as the roof bow, with steel braces. They also used a novel combination of Self Piercing Rivets (SPR) and special adhesive to bond the aluminium to the steel.

The process reduced the mass of the roof by 4kg but more significant than the outright figure, is the effect on the centre of gravity or roll movement. The aluminium panel has the same effect on the centre of gravity as lowering the roof by 50mm, resulting in a car that is more responsive to driver input.

For the introduction of the IX, this weight saving obsession has been taken to new extremes. A carbon fibre rear wing was introduced on the Evo VIII, but it now boasts a hollow construction to save a few more precious ounces and further improve the centre of gravity; an example of the extraordinary attention to detail that’s prevalent throughout this car.

Five exterior body colours are available: red solid, cool silver, black mica, blue pearl, yellow solid and white solid (the traditional colour for competition models).

Interior

·          Recaro front seats and Momo steering wheel standard across the range.

·          Simple, functional and robust fascia design.

·          Ample room for five adults and 530litre boot capacity.

·          High density dash silencer and double-sealing weatherstrips introduced to improve refinement.

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution range has always been hailed as the ultimate everyday supercar. Here is a car that can reach 62mph from rest in under 5 seconds and top 157mph, but can nevertheless accommodate five adults and their holiday luggage. It is this combination of virtues that is at the heart of the Evo legend.

The Evolution IX retains the functional and driver-orientated fascia of its predecessor. The simple wave design is highlighted with some carbon fibre detailing and the switchgear has been ergonomically optimised so that it falls within easy reach of the driver. Nothing should detract from the purity of the driving experience.

Some of the detailing shows the hallmarks of Mitsubishi’s rally experience. All the critical "touch points", such as the steering wheel, seats and gearstick, will delight the enthusiast. The steering wheel is a small leather three-spoke, made by Momo, the company responsible for the wheel found in a Ferrari Formula One Car. The seats are by Recaro, the company that supplies the Mitsubishi World Rally Team. They combine exceptional support during hard cornering with supreme long distance comfort.

Rear passengers are not forgotten and benefit from a sculptured rear bench. Head and legroom is generous and the boot has a maximum capacity of 530litres. The specification of every Evolution IX includes climate control, all-round electric windows and electrically adjustable mirrors, a category 1 alarm and four airbags, proving that performance and comfort can go hand-in-hand.

The flagship Lancer Evolution IX FQ-340 enjoys an enhanced specification. The Recaro seats come clothed in a mixture of high-grade leather and Alcantara, which highlights the Lancer’s premium appeal while still offering excellent support. It also features SmartNav, the innovative route and traffic guidance system operated by Trafficmaster®.

Every variant also benefits from detail improvements that improve the car’s refinement without compromising its sporting focus. The dashboard pad between the engine compartment and cockpit is now made of a denser material to reduce unwanted noise, while the doors use double-sealing weatherstrips. The result is less high frequency noise and greater long distance comfort.