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133-460: The Mitsubishi RVR is a range of cars produced by Japanese manufacturer Mitsubishi Motors from 1991 to 2002 and then from 2010 until present. The first two generations were classified as compact multi-purpose vehicles (MPV), and the model introduced in 2010 is a subcompact crossover SUV . The RVR was Mitsubishi's Recreational Vehicle debut during the Japanese economic boom. The cars were sold at

266-504: A "B" pillar , whereas those of the Toyota and Nissan vehicles did not. The rear windows did not retract but were forward hinged. The rear windows on the longer Chariot did retract into the doors. The fuel tank access door was on the right side for all versions sold internationally. In the LHD models, which had the sliding door on the right side, an interlock prevented the door from opening too far when

399-399: A gentlemen's agreement between Japanese car manufacturers to advertise no more than 280 PS (206 kW; 276 hp). However, sources say Mitsubishi had already been producing cars with more power but had been underrating the official power outputs in order to comply with the agreement. Therefore, each subsequent version has unofficially evolved above the advertised power figures, with

532-867: A 10% stake in the company, until disposing of the last of its remaining shares in March 2003. The 1985 Hyundai Excel was sold in the United States as the Mitsubishi Precis between 1987 and 1994, whereas several other Mitsubishi models were rebadged as Hyundai, namely the Mitsubishi Chariot (as the Hyundai Santamo ), the Mitsubishi Pajero (as the Hyundai Galloper ) or the Mitsubishi Delica (as

665-512: A 2.4 L (2,351 cc) 135 hp (101 kW) engine was available on FWD versions, and standard on AWD versions at least as early as MY 1993. The final and most powerful model, the "Hyper Sports Gear", was added in January 1997. The Hyper Sports Gear R trim package in Japan used the drivetrain of the first Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 ; the 4G63T 2.0-liter, 16V DOHC , turbocharged four mated to either

798-753: A 5,500 rpm limit on launching in first gear to protect the drivetrain. Most Evolution VIIIs have a carbon fiber rear spoiler with matching body-color endplates. Furthermore, the US versions of the Lancer Evolution VIII 2003–2005 were given bulkier rear bumpers than their Japanese counterparts to accommodate US safety laws in the form of the metal rear crash bar. All Evolutions have lightweight aluminum front fenders and hoods. The basic RS Edition does not come with power windows, locks, or mirrors, an audio system, rear wing, sound deadening material, map lamps or an anti-lock braking system. All Evolution VIII RS models sold in

931-599: A 6-speed manual (GT, MR) or a 5-speed automatic (GT-A). The automatic variant uses a non-MIVEC 4G63 sourced from the Evo VIII with a smaller turbo for increased low-down torque. It was only sold in Japan and imported to other countries as grey imports. VIN Searching on epic-data.com has shown there was a total of 2,924 Lancer Evolution Wagons created. This includes all GT, GT-A & MR versions even though Mitsubishi's 2005 Press Release said they intended to make 2,500 Evolution Wagons. Rarity : Approximately 50% of these cars had

1064-472: A Mitsubishi takeover, which proved effective. Although sales of SUVs and light trucks were booming in the U.S., Japan's car manufacturers dismissed the idea that such a trend could occur in their own country. Nakamura, however, increased the budget for SUV product development, and his gamble paid off; Mitsubishi's wide line of four-wheel drive vehicles, from the Mitsubishi Pajero Mini kei car to

1197-420: A closer gear ratio for the 5-speed manual transmission, new lighter Enkei wheels on non-MR models, a redesigned front end with a more efficient air dam (the most noticeable feature are the two small oval ducts to cool the intercooler pipes), and a new rear bumper with a diffuser undersurface to smooth out the airflow coming out of the car for non-US models. HID headlights were no longer standard equipment on

1330-478: A company established in 1920 to manufacture aircraft engines and other parts. The unified company was known as Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), and was the largest private company in Japan. MHI concentrated on manufacturing aircraft , ships , railroad cars and machinery, but in 1937 developed the PX33 , a prototype sedan for military use. It was the first Japanese-built passenger car with full-time four-wheel drive ,

1463-570: A different front bumper, Red/Black Recaro seats (with embossed T. Mäkinen logo), 17-inch white Enkei wheels, a leather Momo steering wheel and shift knob, a titanium turbine that spooled up more quickly, front upper strut brace, lowered ride height (with tarmac stages in mind), and a quicker steering ratio. Amongst other colours, the Evo VI came in either red (Tommi Mäkinen Edition only), white, blue, black or silver with optional special decals, replicating Tommi Mäkinen's rally car's colour scheme. This car

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1596-600: A digital screen climate control system. It came with Mitsubishi's 4G63 engine producing 247 PS (182 kW; 244 hp) at 6,000 rpm and 309 N⋅m (228 lb⋅ft) at 3,000 rpm. 5,000 of the first generation Evolutions were sold between 1992 and 1993. Top speed was 228 km/h (142 mph). The GSR version of the Evolution I was the only Evolution Lancer released with a viscous limited-slip rear differential ( VLSD ). The subsequent Evolution Lancer models all featured rear mechanical plate type LSD's. The Evolution II

1729-533: A factory standard on the GSR model, which used steering, throttle input sensors and g sensors to computer-hydraulically control torque split individually to the rear wheels, Mitsubishi has planned to produce the Evolution IVs only 6,000 cars, but it was completely sold out in just three days after its release. The Evolution IV can be distinguished by its two large fog lights in the front bumper (option on RS version), and

1862-418: A four-speed auto or a five speed manual . Open front and rear differentials were used on vehicles equipped with 4WD. Power output of the turbocharged models were rated at 170–184 kW (231–250 PS; 228–247 hp) JIS. Due to platform sharing with the longer Chariot, and the benefit of development time, many of the mechanical components from past Galant contributions with new mechanism improvements,

1995-545: A going concern by International Motors (a firm previously known for launching Hyundai onto the UK market in 1981). Mitsubishi Motors plans to stop developing car platforms for the Japanese market and instead use vehicle bases made by ally Nissan Motor beginning around 2026. The Colt name appears frequently in Mitsubishi's history since its introduction as a rear-engined 600-cc sedan in the early 1960s. Today, it most commonly refers to

2128-715: A joint venture with Mitsubishi that started 1998. Models produced at the Tiruvallur , Tamil Nadu plant included the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport (third generation) until 2016. Upon selling its Volvo Cars division to Ford in January 1999, Volvo Group purchased a 5% stake in Mitsubishi Motors in November of that same year, but sold its stake to shareholder DaimlerChrysler in March 2001. Mitsubishi has been allied with PSA Group since 1999, after they agreed to co-operate on

2261-463: A larger oil cooler core, ion-coated piston rings, reinforced cylinder head and 5-layer head gasket compared to the 3 layer. According to Mitsubishi Motors of North America (info from evolutionm.net) the total production sales in the U.S. for the Evolution VIII (2003–2005) was 12,846. In 2003, the production sales for the GSR was 7,167 which was the only 2003 model year. In 2004, production sales for

2394-649: A member of the Renault–Nissan Alliance (the "Alliance"). Nissan has said that they plan to share some car platforms and jointly develop future vehicles with Mitsubishi Motors. Nissan's acquisition of the 34% controlling interest in Mitsubishi Motors was completed in October 2016, when Carlos Ghosn , the chairman of Nissan, Renault , and the Alliance, also became chairman of Mitsubishi Motors. Ghosn remained chairman of Mitsubishi until his dismissal following his arrest by

2527-668: A platform to build a race car from. It is stripped of all the creature comforts, and other upgrades that drive the price up for features that the race teams would not require. The IX MR retained the features of the Evolution VIII MR, like Bilstein shocks, a 6-speed manual transmission, a rooftop vortex generator , BBS forged wheels, HID xenon headlights, foglights , accessory gauge package, "zero lift" kit, special badging and an aluminum roof. All models continued to sport Recaro bucket seats , Brembo brakes and Momo steering wheels as well. Additional revisions from 2005 included

2660-474: A second). This was purported to be due to the lack of a rear wing on the RS. In a drag race , the three models are all about even. They are all capable of 0-60 mph (97 km/h) times between 4.2 and 4.5 seconds, and can run 1 ⁄ 4 mile (402 m) times ranging from 12.6 to 13.3 (12.7–13.0 USA versions) seconds depending on the model/driver. The RS model was produced for rally and racing teams who wanted

2793-534: A small car with the roominess of a minivan with its interior offering high seating positions and removable rear seats. The second generation was introduced in 1997. This generation was split into the regular, more minivan-like RVR GDI and the RVR Sports Gear with sporting off-road pretensions. Thanks to various bumper and fender extensions, the Sports Gear was too large to classify as a compact car in Japan and

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2926-655: A technology the company would return to almost 50 years later in its quest for motorsport and sales success. Immediately following the end of the Second World War , the company returned to manufacturing vehicles. Fuso bus production resumed, while a small three-wheeled cargo vehicle called the Mizushima and a scooter called the Silver Pigeon were also developed. However, the zaibatsu (Japan's family-controlled industrial conglomerates) were ordered to be dismantled by

3059-762: A time, Proton entered a rebadged version called the Proton PERT. The introduction of the Evolution VII also marked the first time an automatic drivetrain was included within the model lineup—the GT-A. Nicknamed the 'Grand Touring Automatic' version of the visually similar VII GSR and the RS2, the GT-A model was only produced in 2002 and had the following distinguishing interior and exterior specification: GT-A-only diamond cut finish 17-inch (431.8 mm) alloy wheels, clear rear light lenses and all-in-one style front headlights (later used on

3192-485: A top speed of 175 mph (282 km/h) while costing £48,000. BBC 's television series Top Gear demonstrated that the stock FQ-400 could keep up with a Lamborghini Murciélago around a test track. The Stig recorded a Top Gear Power Lap Time of 1 minute and 24.8 seconds (damp track), 1.1 seconds slower than the Murciélago's time of 1 minute 23.7 seconds (dry track). In a similar test conducted by Evo magazine ,

3325-405: A ¥540-billion emergency rescue of Mitsubishi Motors in January 2005, in partnership with Mitsubishi Corporation and Mitsubishi Tokyo Financial Group . As part of the rescue, MHI acquired ¥50 billion of Mitsubishi Motors stock, increasing its ownership stake to 15% and making the automaker an affiliate again. The emergency rescue was carried out 4 years after a product recall scandal in Japan that

3458-643: Is also sometimes referred to as an Evolution 6 1 ⁄ 2 , Evolution 6.5, or TME for short. 4,092 units were produced in total and exterior styling was similar to that of its predecessor, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 5. In 2001, Mitsubishi was forced by the FIA to run in the WRC using WRC rules for building a car instead of the Group A class rules, and this did not need to follow homologation rules. The Evolution VII

3591-592: Is reflected in the company's logo . Part of Tomio Kubo's expansion strategy was to increase exports by forging alliances with well-established foreign companies. Therefore, in 1971, MHI sold U.S. automotive giant Chrysler a 15% share in the new company. Thanks to this deal, Chrysler began selling the Galant in the United States as the Dodge Colt (which was the first rebadged Mitsubishi product sold by Chrysler), pushing MMC's annual production beyond 250,000 vehicles. In 1977,

3724-542: The Allied powers in 1950, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries was split into three regional companies, each with an involvement in motor-vehicle development: West Japan Heavy-Industries, Central Japan Heavy-Industries, and East Japan Heavy-Industries. East Japan Heavy-Industries began importing the Henry J , an inexpensive American sedan built by Kaiser Motors , in knockdown kit (CKD) form in 1951, and continued to bring them to Japan for

3857-625: The Colt T120SS light truck between 1991 and 2019 based on the Suzuki Carry . Despite the same bodywork, the fascia is unique to Mitsubishi and it is manufactured in the local Mitsubishi plant. The engine used is either Mitsubishi's 1.3 L (1,343 cc) carbureted 4G17 or the bigger 1.5 L (1,468 cc) fuel-injected 4G15 . In 2005, the alliance continued by rebadging the Suzuki APV to Mitsubishi Maven . Few styling changes were applied, and

3990-656: The Delica Space Gear passenger van, rode the wave of SUV-buying in Japan in the early to mid-1990s, and Mitsubishi saw its overall domestic share rise to 11.6% in 1995. In 1991, Chrysler sold its equity stake in Diamond-Star Motors to its partner Mitsubishi Motors, and from then on the two companies continued to share components and manufacturing on a contractual basis only. Chrysler decreased its interest in Mitsubishi Motors to less than 3% in 1992, and announced its decision to divest itself of all its remaining shares on

4123-628: The Hyundai Porter ) and Mitsubishi Proudia (as the Hyundai Equus ). The South African Motor Corporation ( Samcor ) (previously also called Sigma Corporation and MMI) was a joint venture created in 1985, which produced Ford , Mazda , and Mitsubishi vehicles for the local South African market, with the Mitsubishi Delica being rebadged as the Ford Husky minibus and the Mitsubishi Canter as

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4256-748: The Japanese domestic market on 17 February 2010. The name RVR is only used in Japan, South Korea, and Canada. In most markets, it is sold as the Mitsubishi ASX (an abbreviation of "Active Sports Crossover"), and as the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport in the United States, Argentina, Brazil, and Indonesia. The design was influenced from the Concept-cX prototype first exhibited at the 62nd Frankfurt Motor Show in July 2007. Mitsubishi has concentrated on emphasizing

4389-532: The Lancer , Grandis , and Outlander . From 2010, they were superseded with Mitsubishi's self-developed 4N1 diesel engines. As of 2006, Mitsubishi had four joint ventures with Chinese partners: In December 2010, Mitsubishi and Nissan agreed to form a joint venture (later named " NMKV Co., Ltd.") to develop kei cars for the Japanese market. In 2016, Nissan uncovered evidence that Mitsubishi's fuel-economy testing numbers were erroneous and had been erroneous since

4522-520: The Mitsubishi Debonair as a luxury car primarily for the Japanese market, and was used by senior Mitsubishi executives as a company car. West Japan Heavy-Industries (now renamed Mitsubishi Shipbuilding and Engineering) and East Japan Heavy-Industries (now Mitsubishi Nihon Heavy-Industries) had also expanded their automotive departments in the 1950s, and the three were reintegrated as Mitsubishi Heavy Industries in 1964. Within three years, its output

4655-765: The Proton Inspira (the Proton Waja replacement) was again based on the Mitsubishi Lancer platform and officially launched on 10 November 2010. Mitsubishi participated in a joint venture with rival carmaker Volvo and the Dutch government at the former DAF plant in Born in 1991. The operation, branded NedCar , began producing the first-generation Mitsubishi Carisma alongside the Volvo S40/V40 in 1996. The factory later produced

4788-756: The Wira and Perdana were based on the Lancer/Colt and Galant/Eterna, respectively, before the company finally produced entirely self-developed vehicles, the Waja in 2000, and the Proton Gen-2 in 2004. At its peak, the Proton controlled 75% of its domestic market, even after Mitsubishi ended their 22-year partnership in 2005, selling their 7.9% stake for RM 384 million to Khazanah Nasional Berhad . However, in October 2008, Proton renewed its technology-transfer agreements with MMC, and

4921-560: The centre of gravity to produce more natural roll characteristics. Detail improvements have also been made to Mitsubishi's own electronic four-wheel drive , to the ACD 5 + Super AYC 6 traction control , and to the Sports ABS systems . The Lancer Evolution VIII displayed at the 2003 Tokyo Motor Show took the MR designation traditionally reserved for Mitsubishi Motors high-performance models (first used for

5054-683: The 4G15 engine was used instead of Suzuki's G15A engine. The Maven was discontinued in 2009 due to poor sales. The Colt T120SS was discontinued in 2019 as the base vehicle, the Suzuki Carry was updated, and Mitsubishi was not interested in continuing the alliance. In Japan, Mitsubishi had rebadged the Suzuki Solio as the Delica D:2 and the Suzuki Every as the Minicab . Indian manufacturer Hindustan had

5187-467: The ACD will almost immediately allow the center differential to go into a free state upon detecting a steering input. Additionally, this mode provides the strongest limited-slip clamping force of the three modes. Although the US versions did not come with the AYC, it did come with a rear 1.5way clutch type LSD ( limited-slip differential ), which limits the slip from both rear wheels causing less traction loss of

5320-638: The Australian-built Mitsubishi Sigma to the UK as the Lonsdale YD41 in an attempt to circumvent British import quotas, but the new brand was unsuccessful. It then carried Mitsubishi Sigma badges in 1983–84 before abandoning this operation entirely. South Korean manufacturer Hyundai , built the Hyundai Pony in 1975 using MMC's Saturn engine and transmissions. Korea's first car, it remained in production for 13 years. Mitsubishi held up to

5453-602: The Eclipse and Galant were being explored in Ukraine, the Middle East, and Russia, where the company's bestselling dealership is located. Mitsubishi Motors has also been active in OEM production of cars for Nissan , and announced a similar partnership with Groupe PSA in July 2005 to manufacture an SUV on their behalf. Mitsubishi Motors reported its first profitable quarter in four years in

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5586-519: The Evo X has active yaw control , including the 2006 Evolution IX. The American 2003 and 2004 GSRs are without the helical limited-slip front differential and 6-speed manual transmission. The 2004 US spec RS models, however, do have a front helical limited-slip differential. All 2003, 2004 and 2005 RS and GSR models have the Japanese Evolution VII's 5-speed transmission. The MR edition was introduced to

5719-523: The Evolution VIII's US introduction. With its 2.0 liter, 271 hp (202 kW; 275 PS) engine, the 2003 Evolution VIII was capable of achieving a 0–100 km/h (62 mph) time of 5.1 seconds. However, the internal components for the American versions were largely stripped-down versions of the specifications for the Japanese Lancer Evolution VIII. No US-spec Evolution model prior to

5852-559: The Evolution VIII). The GT-A had the option of either no spoiler, the short spoiler (as per the Lancer Cedia ; and later used on the Evolution VIII 260) or the thunder spoiler as used on the standard Evolution VII models. The most distinguishing feature was a smooth bonnet without the NACA duct on it at all and the revised front bumper. Although offering inferior cooling capabilities, the bonnet

5985-434: The Evolution series to be offered through Ralliart dealer networks in the United Kingdom and in various European markets from around 1998. Mitsubishi decided to export the eighth generation Evolution to the United States in 2003 after witnessing the success Subaru had in that market the previous year with the Subaru Impreza WRX . All domestic-market versions, until the release of the Evolution IX in 2005, were limited by

6118-406: The Evolution was able to lap the Bedford Autodrome faster than an Audi RS4 and a Porsche 911 Carrera 4S . The Lancer Evolution VIII was also the first Evolution to be sold in the United States, spurred by the success of the Subaru Impreza WRX which had been released there just the year prior. The Evolution VIII found its true competition in the Subaru Impreza WRX STI model the same year as

6251-530: The FQ-300, FQ-320 and FQ-340 each with around 300, 320 and 340 PS (296, 316 and 335 bhp; 221, 235 and 250 kW), respectively. An FQ-360 model was subsequently released as a successor to the Evolution VIII FQ-400. While the new FQ-360 produced 371 PS (366 hp; 273 kW) at 6,887 rpm (less horsepower than its predecessor), although it had more torque at 492 N⋅m (363 lb⋅ft) at 3,200 rpm. All four models were designed to run on super unleaded petrol only. The MR FQ-360

6384-422: The Ford Triton light truck. Samcor also made a version of the Mazda 323 for the UK market called the Sao Penza, which was a marque like Lonsdale YD41 , invented to get around British import quotas. Malaysian manufacturer Proton was initially very dependent on Mitsubishi Motors, assembling their 1985 Proton Saga using mostly MMC components at a newly established facility in Shah Alam . Subsequent models like

6517-448: The GSR was 1,254 and for the RS was 263 for a total of 1,517 for the 2004 model year. In 2005 production sales for the GSR was 2,880, for the RS was 282, and for the MR was 1000 for a total of 4,162 for the 2005 model year. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has determined crash test ratings of Lancer of different model years: Mitsubishi introduced the Lancer Evolution IX in Japan on March 3, 2005, and exhibited

6650-618: The Galant GTO). Other parts on the MR include BBS alloy wheels, the aforementioned Bilstein shocks, and an aluminium roof. In the United Kingdom, many special Evolutions were introduced, including the 260, FQ300, FQ320, FQ340, and FQ400 variants. They came with 260, 305, 325, 345, and 405 hp (194, 227, 239, 254 and 302 kW), respectively. The FQ-400, sold through Ralliart UK, produced 411 PS (302 kW; 405 hp) at 6,400 rpm and maximum torque of 481 N⋅m (355 lb⋅ft) at 5,500 rpm, from its 1,997 cc (2.0 L; 121.9 cu in) 4G63 inline-four engine ,

6783-425: The Galant was sold as the Chrysler Sigma in Australia. By 1977, a network of "Colt"-branded distribution and sales dealerships had been established across Europe, as Mitsubishi sought to begin selling vehicles directly. Annual production had by now grown from 500,000 vehicles in 1973 to 965,000 in 1978, when Chrysler began selling the Galant as the Dodge Challenger and the Plymouth Sapporo . However, this expansion

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6916-401: The Japanese government in November 2018, when Mitsubishi Motors CEO Osamu Masuko assumed the chairmanship. By 2023, Renault Group began supplying Mitsubishi in Continental Europe, with the Renault Clio and Renault Captur rebadge as the Colt and ASX. The firm has no plans to sell any of the models in Britain or Ireland, as the Colt Car Company's Mitsubishi aftersales business was bought as

7049-409: The Japanese-market Evolution IX reaching an alleged output of around 321 PS (236 kW; 317 hp). Various special versions available in other markets, particularly the UK, have official power outputs up to 446 PS (328 kW; 440 hp). The tenth and final generation of the Lancer Evolution, the Evolution X, was launched in Japan in 2007, and overseas markets in 2008. The Evolution X

7182-406: The Mitsubishi Colt subcompact in the company's line-up, but is also the name of MMC's import/distribution company in the United Kingdom, the Colt Car Company , established in 1974. For the first decade of its existence, before Far Eastern auto manufacturers had established their reputations, its cars carried the "Colt" badge in Britain instead of "Mitsubishi". In 1982 and 1983, Mitsubishi introduced

7315-435: The Mitsubishi Japan dealership chain called Car Plaza . RVR is an acronym for "Recreation Vehicle Runner". In addition, the original logo had a Cyrillic Я on the first letter, so that it reads ЯVR . It had a convenient size passenger cabin and spacious 4–5 person capacity with a youth-oriented approach, making it appealing to young people. Television commercials in Japan used Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck as spokespeople. It

7448-410: The Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., introduced the Mitsubishi Model A , Japan's first series-production automobile. An entirely hand-built seven-seater sedan based on the Fiat Tipo 3, it proved expensive compared to its American and European mass-produced rivals, and was discontinued in 1921 after only 22 had been built. In 1934, Mitsubishi Shipbuilding was merged with the Mitsubishi Aircraft Co.,

7581-458: The RS being 1,260 kg (2,778 lb) and the GSR being 1,345 kg (2,965 lb) (Sunroof model 1,370 kg (3,020 lb)). Much of the technical improvements for this generation were also used in the second-generation Mitsubishi RVR originally sold only in Japan but since exported to Australia and New Zealand. The Evolution IV was the last model to be considered "compact" according to Japanese dimension regulations . Many aspects of

7714-418: The RS model, which was a first in a production car. Output was rated at 280 PS (276 hp; 206 kW) at 6,500 rpm and maximum torque of 373 N⋅m (275 lb⋅ft) at 3,000 rpm. The Evolution VI received new bodywork yet again, with the most easily noticeable change being within the front bumper where the huge fog lights were reduced in size and moved to the corners for better airflow. A new model

7847-433: The RVR is basically reliable and robust. However, the individual is about 60,000 km Automatic Transmission capable, greet life with a plug cord about three years, would upset the sensors and around the throttle servo mechanism (such as not idling as symptoms appear), etc. Automatic Transmission shift lock was mechanism instead of an electrical control, a unique method that deregulation was mechanically wire extending from

7980-400: The RVR's fuel economy and low emissions, as part of the company's plan to reposition itself as a maker of smaller and more efficient cars, in contrast to its previous successes building large SUVs . Mitsubishi Motors Besides being part of the Renault–Nissan–Mitsubishi Alliance, it is also a part of Mitsubishi keiretsu , formerly the biggest industrial group in Japan. The company

8113-437: The SE and MR models (stereo system, power windows and locks, rear wiper, rear wing, trunk lining and sound insulation). The result is a weight savings of over 60 lb (27 kg). The fuel capacity remains the same as the Evo VIII at 14 U.S. gal (53 L). Although the RS is the lightest of the group, the RS did not manage to outperform the standard IX and the MR around a road course (even if only by fractions of

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8246-835: The US are equipped with air conditioning. The 2005 MR/RS editions came with an aluminum roof. Additionally, Evolution VIII MR Editions come equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, Bilstein shocks, optional graphite grey color (unique to the Evolution VIII MR), optional BBS wheels and an optional vortex generator. The MR Edition also received engine updates and reliability changes, the engine updates include larger turbo diameter mouth, updated cam profiles, lighter balance shafts and changed from single wastegate solenoid to dual solenoid. Exterior changes included HID headlights, updated taillights, and MR rear badging . Interior updates included black suede Recaro seats with higher side bolsters , carbon look dash trim , and MR badging on center console. Mechanical changes saw S-AWC rear diff changes,

8379-443: The US in 2005, with ACD and the only model with a 6-speed manual transmission. The 2005 US spec RS and GSR have the ACD standard, and the front helical limited-slip differential is now standard on all models. The boost, timing, and tuning are also significantly lower than its Japanese counterpart, allowing it to adhere to the strict emissions regulations of the United States. Starting in 2005, the US model Evolutions were also fitted with

8512-457: The active center differential to change the differential locking. Each setting determines how long the ACD will delay in freeing the center differential after a steering input is made. In addition, it will determine how much locking force the ACD will exhibit on the clutch pack and center differential. When the clutch is not fully engaged, torque split can not be 50/50. Tarmac is the setting to be used in dry, paved conditions. In this setting,

8645-612: The aircraft division. The logo of three red diamonds, shared with over 40 other companies within the keiretsu , antedates Mitsubishi Motors itself by almost a century. It was chosen by Iwasaki Yatarō , the founder of Mitsubishi, as it was suggestive of the emblem of the Tosa clan who first employed him, and because his own family crest was three rhombi stacked atop each other. The name Mitsubishi ( 三菱 ) consists of two parts – mitsu meaning "three" and hishi (which becomes " bishi " under rendaku ) meaning " water caltrop " (also called "water chestnut"), and hence "rhombus", which

8778-403: The base IX (nor were they standard on the 2005 VIII), and were available only in the SSL package (Sun, Sound, and Leather), SE (Special Edition) and MR trims . The US versions of the Lancer Evolution IX did not come with the AYC but the ACD was still present. The drivers can select from three different driving modes, "Tarmac", "Gravel" and "Snow", and the car's computer system relatively promotes

8911-438: The beginning of the Lost Decade and continued to 1997. The collapse was partly the result of the Plaza Accord agreement in 1985, which sought to equalize the United States dollar with the Japanese yen and the German mark . In September of that year, the company closed its Thai factory in response to a crash in the country's currency and plummeting consumer demand. The large truck plant, which had produced 8,700 trucks in 1996,

9044-515: The brake pedal. This was also the advantage of being unaffected by the battery. The Mitsubishi RVR was sold at North American Mitsubishi dealerships under the Expo LRV (LRV stood for Light Recreational Vehicle) nameplate; they were available in a few different trim levels, with front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive powertrains, 2.4 4G64 and 1.8 4G93 four cylinder engines (diesel engines were not offered), and 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmissions available. The Expo LRV models (offered alongside

9177-833: The car at the Geneva Motor Show for the European market the same day. The North American markets saw the model exhibited at the New York International Auto Show the following month. The 2.0 L (1,997 cc) 4G63 Inline-four engine has MIVEC technology ( variable valve timing ), and a revised turbocharger design boosting official power output at the crankshaft to 291 PS (214 kW; 287 hp) and torque to 392 N⋅m (289 lb⋅ft). The USDM Lancer Evolution IX models: standard (Grand Sport Rally or "GSR" in some markets), RS (Rally Sport), SE (Special Edition) and MR (Mitsubishi Racing) varied slightly in their performance capabilities. Subtleties unique to each model accounted for variations in acceleration, handling and top speed. The RS excluded features that came standard on

9310-428: The car were changed such as: Furthermore, the turbocharger was again improved. Torque was increased to 372.6 N⋅m (275 lb⋅ft) at 3,000 rpm. Power officially stayed the same, at 280 PS (206 kW; 276 hp). The Evolution VI's changes mainly focused on cooling and engine durability. It received a larger intercooler, larger oil cooler, and new pistons, along with a titanium-aluminide turbine wheel for

9443-409: The cars didn't share much beyond the nameplate. These Wagons were sold for model years 1992-1996 and replaced the Dodge/Plymouth Colt Vista and the Canada-only Eagle Vista Wagon, all based on the previous generation Mitsubishi Chariot . The Summit Wagon was available in DL and LX trims, as well as in a four-wheel drive version considered a trim level of its own. As a compact MPV , it was marketed as

9576-618: The construction of a new manufacturing plant in Indonesia under a joint venture with Mitsubishi Corporation (40%) and a local company Krama Yudha Group (9%), with the maximum production capacity of 160,000 vehicles per year. In July 2015, the Mitsubishi Motors announced that it plans to end production at the Diamond-Star Motors plant in Normal, Illinois , US, as the plant has been operating well below capacity for several years. Operations at

9709-589: The crowded streets of Japan. Japanese media rumored in 1992 and 1993 that Mitsubishi Motors intended a hostile acquisition of Honda . While Mitsubishi was riding high off of profitable vehicles such as the Diamante and Pajero, Honda was caught off-guard with the SUV and truck boom, and was losing focus after the illness and later death of its founder . Honda CEO Nobuhiko Kawamoto took drastic steps, though, such as exiting Formula 1 and discontinuing unprofitable vehicles to avert

9842-574: The decline of the RV sales boom. Sales later declined, and the original RVR was discontinued in August 2002. The reintroduction of the "Sports Gear" RVR nameplate is an attempt to inherit the popularity of the first generation vehicle. It was released in Japan on 17 February 2010. It does not feature a rear sliding door, due to the current perception that SUVs have conventional doors, and sliding doors are typically installed on family vehicles. The RVR logo no longer uses

9975-582: The development of diesel engines using the Japanese company's gasoline direct injection technology. They united again in 2005 to develop the Peugeot 4007 and Citroën C-Crosser sport utility vehicles (SUVs), based on the Japanese company's Mitsubishi Outlander . Two further ties were established between the companies in 2008, first with the establishment of a jointly owned production facility in Kaluga , which will manufacture up to 160,000 Outlander-based SUVs for

10108-501: The facility ended in May 2016. The plant was sold to Maynards Industries, which sold the site to American electric vehicle startup Rivian in 2017. In May 2016, in the wake of the fuel-efficiency scandal uncovered by Nissan (discussed in "Fuel economy scandal" ), Nissan began the acquisition of a 34% stake in Mitsubishi Motors, with the aim of making Nissan the largest and controlling shareholder of Mitsubishi and turning Mitsubishi Motors into

10241-450: The fast-growing Russian market. They were also collaborating in the research and development of electric powertrains for small urban vehicles. Japanese newspaper Nikkei claimed that PSA will sell the electric city car Mitsubishi i MIEV in Europe by 2011. In Europe, Mitsubishi Motors used diesel engines supplied by German manufacturer Volkswagen for some of its mid-sized cars, such as

10374-454: The front and rear, and separate rear side headrests. This model deleted the GSR's headliner-mounted sunglass holder to make room for the sunroof. The Philippines had the Evolution IX until in August 2008, which was offered in two trims, the entry-level RS offering a 5-speed manual transmission, Brembo 17-inch ventilated discs (4-Pot), Brembo 16-inch ventilated drum-in-disc (2-Pot) and almost

10507-411: The fuel filler door was open. The standard installed fixed position rear bench seat arrangement could accommodate three persons and the seatbacks had a 50:50 split: the reclining seat backs could be folded forward, flat upon the seats, and then the seat cushion could be detached at the rear and folded up and forward towards the front seats, leaving a flat floor for large cargo items. When the entire bench

10640-719: The idea of family motoring was taking off. Central Japan Heavy-Industries, now known as Shin Mitsubishi Heavy-Industries, had already re-established an automotive department in its headquarters in 1953. Now, it was ready to introduce the Mitsubishi 500 , a mass-market sedan, to meet the new demand from consumers. It followed this in 1962 with the Minica kei car and the Colt 1000, the first of its Colt line of family cars, in 1963. In 1964, Mitsubishi introduced its largest passenger sedan,

10773-797: The inverted Cyrillic "Я" on the first letter. The first generation RVR, introduced February 1991, is a compact MPV , manufactured from 1991 until 1997 and marketed as the Mitsubishi Space Runner in Europe and Mitsubishi Expo LRV in the United States. Export markets in Asia and Oceania used the Japanese market name. The RVR was also marketed by Chrysler as the Dodge/Plymouth Colt Wagon and Eagle Summit Wagon captive imports in North America. Its "tall wagon" configuration traces to Italdesign 's 1978 Lancia Megagamma concept. The RVR

10906-760: The larger Expo) were sold from 1991 to 1995; at the end of 1995, the Expo and LRV models were discontinued in North America. In North America, the RVR was also sold and marketed by Chrysler as the Dodge/Plymouth Colt Vista Wagon and Eagle Summit Wagon captive imports as station wagon models of the Dodge/Plymouth Colt and the Eagle Summit . As those were rebadgings of the Mitsubishi Mirage and Lancer,

11039-613: The latest Mitsubishi Colt and the related Smart Forfour (partner DaimlerChrysler cancelled its production in 2006). Production of European market-bound Mitsubishi Outlanders , and badge-engineered versions of this vehicle, were also manufactured in the Netherlands until 2012, when the company sold the plant to the Dutch industrial conglomerate VDL Groep . Mitsubishi Motors Europe 's headquarters and their European distribution center are still based in Born. In Indonesia, Mitsubishi offered

11172-523: The lineup, the MR came with a revised front limited-slip differential , aluminum MR shift knob , handbrake with carbon fibre handle, 17-inch BBS wheels, aluminum roof, and a 6-speed manual gearbox. Additionally, the Evolution MR's taillights and headlights sported a new black housing. The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII MR used slick-response Bilstein shocks for improved handling . The aluminium roof panel and other reductions in body weight lowered

11305-437: The new 4G63 came with MIVEC, Mitsubishi's variable valve timing technology, which drastically improves the fuel consumption by changing the valve timing on the intake cam. The MIVEC system is similar to Honda 's i- VTEC system only that it doesn't change valve lift , only intake valve timing. Three trims were available for Japan, Asia and Europe. Although all models used the same 291 PS (214 kW; 287 hp) engine,

11438-422: The newly designed tail lights on the rear, which became a standard design to Evolution V, which would become yet another trademark of the Evolution series, note the RS has no light mounts on the boot/trunk for further weight saving. This new generation was slightly heavier than previous Evo's—the GSR in particular due to the added technology systems—but to counter this, the car produced even more power—the weight of

11571-517: The ongoing tensions between Chrysler and Mitsubishi, they agreed to unite in a vehicle manufacturing operation in Normal, Illinois . The 50/50 venture provided a way to circumvent the voluntary import restrictions, while providing a new line of compact and subcompact cars for Chrysler. Diamond-Star Motors (DSM)—from the parent companies' logos: three diamonds (Mitsubishi) and a pentastar (Chrysler)—was incorporated in October 1985, and in April 1986, ground

11704-406: The only one of Japan's 11 auto manufacturers to be privately held. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries agreed to reduce its share to 25%, retaining its position as largest single stockholder. Chrysler, meanwhile, increased its holding to over 20%. The capital raised by this initial offering enabled Mitsubishi to pay off part of its debts, as well as to expand its investments throughout Southeast Asia, where it

11837-499: The open market in 1993. The two companies then terminated their close alliance, with Mitsubishi Motors no longer supplying parts for engines and transmissions for Chrysler. After this period, the company sought alliances with many other automotive manufacturers in different areas of the world, as described under "other alliances" below, with its most economically significant alliance being with Nissan to develop and manufacture kei cars. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) participated in

11970-403: The previous Evolution II, an RS model was available. The Lancer platform was redesigned in 1996, and along with it, the Evolution. The engine and transaxle were rotated 180° to better balance the weight and eliminate torque steer . There were two versions available, the RS and GSR. The RS version was produced as a competition car with a limited-slip front differential and a friction-type LSD at

12103-496: The previous models. New, more aggressive styling and a new nose moulding improved the air supply to the radiator, intercooler and brakes. New side skirts and rear bumper moldings and a larger rear spoiler were added to reduce lift. The engine was improved and had a higher compression ratio than before, and a new turbocharger compressor (65 mm to 68 mm ), which resulted in a power output of 270 bhp (201 kW) at 6,250 rpm, 309 N⋅m (228 lb⋅ft) at 3,000 rpm. As per

12236-465: The rear wheels. The most common setup is the 1.5 way LSD, locking on throttle and partially locking on braking. In racing, Lancer Evolutions are not equipped with AYC or ACD because it is believed that better lap times are achieved by pure driver skill without any computer based assistance systems. One of the changes from the previous iteration of the Lancer Evolution, was the change in the engine,

12369-614: The rear. It also came with GLX seats and a choice of either 15-inch or 16-inch OZ lightweight racing wheels. The RS also had wind-up windows, optional air conditioning in some models, and a few extra brace bars to strengthen the chassis, one behind the front grille and another across the boot floor, and an aluminum rear strut tower brace. The GSR and the RS shared a new twin-scroll turbocharger which helped to improve response and increase power to 280 PS (206 kW; 276 hp) at 6,500 rpm and 353 N⋅m (260 lb⋅ft) torque at 3,000 rpm. Mitsubishi's new Active Yaw Control appeared as

12502-419: The remainder of the car's three-year production run. The same year, Central Japan Heavy-Industries concluded a similar contract with Willys (now owned by Kaiser) for CKD-assembled Jeep CJ-3Bs . This deal proved more durable, with licensed Mitsubishi Jeeps in production until 1998, 30 years after Willys had replaced the model. By the beginning of the 1960s, Japan's economy was gearing up; wages were rising and

12635-630: The result of special modifications by United Kingdom tuning firms Rampage Tuning, Owen Developments, and Flow Race Engines. The "FQ" name stands for F——ing Quick , although it is not officially recognized by Mitsubishi due to the vulgarity behind the abbreviation. At 202.8 hp (151.2 kW) per litre, it has one of the highest specific outputs per litre of any road car engine. With a curb weight of 1,450 kg (3,197 lb), it achieves 0–60 mph (97 km/h) in 3.5 seconds, 0–100 mph (161 km/h) in 9.1 seconds, 1 ⁄ 4 mile (402 m) in 12.1 seconds at 117 mph (188 km/h), and

12768-467: The sales channels have been combined into one franchise that sells all models, including kei cars and commercial delivery vehicles. The benefits Mitsubishi Motors had seen because of its strong presence in Southeast Asia reversed themselves as a result of the economic crisis in the region , which began in 1991 with the advent of the collapse of the Japanese asset price bubble , referred to in Japan as

12901-585: The same features as to that of the GSR trim in the international version. Some RS models had the SAYC option, while some did not. The MR was the top-of-the-line segment, which offered almost the same features as to that of the MR trim in the international version. All of them are powered by the same 2.0 L (1,997 cc) 4G63 turbocharged MIVEC Inline-four engine . Mitsubishi also released an Evolution IX wagon in GT, GT-A models, and MR special versions. Variants came in

13034-468: The seats completely forward, then extending the seatbacks completely flat. Originally installed with a naturally aspirated 2.0L/1.8L petrol engine, it was later introduced with a turbodiesel option. The mid-model sports model with a detuned type of turbo engine 4G63 is also carried on the Lancer Evolution its "X3" and "Super Sport Gear" and offered an optional sliding metal sunroof . In North America,

13167-415: The smaller engines were installed in vehicles with reduced width at 1,695 mm (66.7 in) so that buyers weren't liable for additional taxes. The high performance "Sports Gear X3" model came with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob with self-leveling xenon headlights; the model-specific seat fabric received an interwoven hummingbird pattern. In February 1999 a special "Fishing Gear" package

13300-564: The speedo and tach. The GT-A also had additional sound deadening and privacy glass installed from the factory and the engine manifold and downpipe had been engineered to be quieter. The 5-speed W5A51 automatic gearbox had what Mitsubishi called "fuzzy logic", which meant that the car would learn what the driver's driving characteristics were like and would adapt the gear change timings and kick down reactions accordingly. The gears could be manually selected as with most Tiptronics via steering wheel + and – buttons (a pair both sides) or via selecting

13433-446: The sportier "Sports Gear" models, the standard type "X" has a 1.8-litre gasoline engine while the "Sports Gear" used a 2.4-litre GDI engine or the turbocharged, two-litre 4G63. Vehicles installed with the 2.4-litre engine were liable for additional yearly tax charges in Japan due to the engine size exceeding the Japanese regulations concerning engine displacement, and the width of the vehicle was 1,780 mm (70.1 in). Vehicles with

13566-498: The standard model, the Sun, Sound and Leather package added a power sunroof, HID xenon headlamps with integrated fog lights, a slightly different stereo head unit (with no integral amplifier), slightly upgraded speakers in the front doors and parcel shelf , a 4.1-channel amplifier under the driver's seat, a powered, trunk-mounted Infinity subwoofer , black leather seating surfaces, leather-trimmed door panels, slightly revised center armrests in

13699-640: The start of the venture, affecting 625,000 cars produced by NMKV. The result of the "fuel economy scandal" was that Nissan acquired a controlling interest in Mitsubishi. In July 2024, Mitsubishi Motors and Nissan announced a partnership with Honda for the joint development of their future electric models. Mitsubishi Motors maintained two retail sales channels that sold specific models, called "Car Plaza" and "Galant Shop". Certain models were exclusive to either channel, while some models were available at both channels, as required by local Japanese market conditions. More recently, due to cancellation of larger sedans,

13832-482: The third Japanese manufacturer (after Daihatsu and Suzuki ) to begin assembly in China. Before receiving government approval for this project, Mitsubishi had to express contrition over "defective" Mitsubishi trucks imported to China in 1984 and 1985. By 1989, Mitsubishi's worldwide production, including its overseas affiliates, had reached 1.5 million units. Mitsubishi Motors went public in 1988, ending its status as

13965-421: The third quarter of 2006, and returned to profitability by the end of the 2006 financial year, and sustained profitability and global sales of 1,524,000 through 2007 and later. In January 2011, the company announced its next midterm business plan to introduce eight hybrid and battery-powered models by 2015. It aimed to sell its first two plug-in hybrids by fiscal 2012. In March 2015, Mitsubishi Motors started

14098-558: The tiptronic gate with the gear lever. Power was down a little from the standard manual cars with 272 PS (200 kW; 268 hp), while Torque was decreased to 343 N⋅m (253 lb⋅ft). The GT-A gearbox did not appear again in the Evolution VIII but has been installed in the estate version of the Evolution IX Wagon. It was replaced by the Twin Clutch SST gearbox since the introduction of Evolution X. Evolution VII GT-A

14231-469: The torque differed from one model to another. In Europe, however, the Evolution IX was advertised to have 280 PS (206 kW; 276 hp). The GSR produced 400 N⋅m (295 lb⋅ft) of torque, while the RS and GT produced 407 N⋅m (300 lb⋅ft). In the United Kingdom, the Evolution IX used a different model scheme based on the car's horsepower. There were initially three models available:

14364-477: The two countries' governments, had to be included among the 120,000 cars earmarked for Chrysler. A restricting element of Mitsubishi's deal with Chrysler was that Chrysler had the right of first refusal of any Mitsubishi automobiles in the US market until 1990. Toward the end of the 1980s, as MMC initiated a major push to increase its U.S. presence, it aired its first national television advertising campaign and made plans to increase its network to 340 dealers. Despite

14497-519: The wheels). Originally a one-off model, sales were so successful in the U.S. that by 2005 it was available in four trims. The standard GSR model was available in Japan. The RS model was provided with a 5-speed manual gearbox and standard wheels (lacking excess components, such as interior map lights, power windows /doors, and radio). The SSL trim package came with a sunroof, trunk mounted subwoofer , and leather seats. All of these trim levels also included chrome headlight and taillight housings. To round out

14630-418: Was a stripped-down version that lacked power windows and seats, anti-lock brakes , a rear wiper, and had steel wheels to weigh approximately 70 kg (154 lb) less than the 1,238 kg (2,729 lb) GSR, ready for racing or tuning. The RS version was released with a mechanical plate type rear limited-slip differential (LSD). The GSR came with all of the conveniences of a typical street car, including

14763-638: Was added to the GSR and RS lineup; known as the RS2, it was an RS with a few of the GSR's options. Another limited-edition RS was known as the RS Sprint, an RS tuned by Ralliart in the UK to be lighter and more powerful with 330 hp (246 kW). Yet another special edition Evolution VI was released in December 1999: the Tommi Mäkinen Edition, named after Finnish rally driver Tommi Mäkinen who had won Mitsubishi four WRC drivers championships. It featured

14896-474: Was also developed and released during Japan's " bubble economy ", and gained popularity due to the convenience of a passenger side sliding door. It was a tall wagon with some off-road characteristics, targeting the "sports gear" or outdoor lifestyle market. This approach was similar to the one used by Honda when they introduced the Honda CR-V . The RVR had an especially good sales record in the beginning, even with

15029-448: Was also released in limited numbers (only 200) in the last year of production. Four models were available in the US. All models used the same 286 bhp (290 PS; 213 kW) engine. All of the American models are the same in power, but may differ in performance. The only thing that sets them apart is the Evo RS, which is 80 lb (36 kg) lighter than the MR and SE models. To

15162-597: Was based on the larger Lancer Cedia platform and as a result gained more weight over the Evolution VI, but Mitsubishi made up for this with multiple important chassis tweaks. The biggest change was the addition of an active center differential and a more effective limited-slip differential, while a front helical limited-slip differential was added. Torque was increased again to 383 N⋅m (282 lb⋅ft) with engine tweaks that allowed greater airflow, and horsepower officially remained at 280 PS (206 kW; 276 hp). For

15295-465: Was beginning to cause friction; Chrysler saw their overseas markets for subcompacts as being directly encroached by their Japanese partners, while MMC felt the Americans were demanding too much say in their corporate decisions. Mitsubishi Motors finally achieved annual production of a million cars in 1980, but by this time, its ally was not so healthy; as part of its battle to avoid bankruptcy , Chrysler

15428-688: Was broken on a 1.9-million-square-foot (177,000 m ) production facility in Normal. In 1987, the company was selling 67,000 cars a year in the U.S., but when the plant was completed in March 1988, it offered an annual capacity of 240,000 vehicles. Initially, three platform-sharing compact 2+2 coupés were released, the Mitsubishi Eclipse , Eagle Talon , and Plymouth Laser , with other models being introduced in subsequent years. In 1986 Mitsubishi reached an agreement with Liuzhou Automotive to assemble their Minicab kei van and truck there, making Mitsubishi

15561-613: Was by now operating in the Philippines , Malaysia , and Thailand . Hirokazu Nakamura became president of Mitsubishi Motors in 1989, and steered the company in some promising directions, with the advent of the Japanese asset price bubble " market correction " that led to the Lost Decade as a result of the Plaza Accord agreement signed in 1985. Sales of the company's new Pajero were bucking conventional wisdom by becoming popular even in

15694-449: Was designed to give a cleaner line through the air with less air resistance at highway speeds. Interior could be specified with factory options of a deluxe velour interior, full leather with 4-way Power seats or the Recaro sports seats. The GT-A interior was different in that it had chromed door handles, a different instrument panel (to show the gear selection) and chrome edged bezels around

15827-453: Was essentially a second generation Mitsubishi Chariot (marketed in some markets as the Space Wagon) with its chassis shortened by 20 cm (7.9 in), sharing most components with the longer variant. Its tall wagon body style featured two rows of seats, equipped with a single rear door and, in all markets, a single sliding door on the passenger side. The Mitsubishi sliding door latched to

15960-508: Was forced to sell its Australian manufacturing division to MMC that year. The new Japanese owners renamed it Mitsubishi Motors Australia Ltd (MMAL). In 1982, the Mitsubishi brand was introduced to the American market for the first time. The Tredia sedan , and the Cordia and Starion coupés were initially sold through 70 dealers in 22 states, with an allocation of 30,000 vehicles among them. This quota , restricted by mutual agreement between

16093-467: Was increased to 256 PS (188 kW; 252 hp) from the same engine and torque was unchanged for both GSR and RS models. Most cars came with 15-inch OZ 5-spoke wheels from the factory, although some RS models sold to privateer racing teams left the factory with steel wheels. February 1995 saw the arrival of the Evolution III, following a pre-release in 1993 which had several improvements over

16226-490: Was launched in 2007 and 2008. Slow-selling vehicles were eliminated from the U.S. market, purchase projections for the Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance have been scaled back, and 10,000 jobs were shed to cut costs with 3,400 workers at its Australian plant and other loss-making operations still under threat. Meanwhile, in an effort to increase production at its U.S. facility, new export markets for

16359-477: Was launched on January 29, 2002, and it was available at the Galant and Mitsubishi Car Plaza dealers nationwide from February 1 of that same year, at a starting price of ¥ 3.3 million. The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII appeared in 2003, this time sporting 17-inch grey Enkei wheels, Brembo brakes and Bilstein shocks to handle traction and a 5-speed manual gearbox with 280 PS (206 kW; 276 hp) (approx. 234 bhp (237 PS; 174 kW) to

16492-422: Was manufactured by Japanese manufacturer Mitsubishi Motors from 1992 until 2016. There have been ten official versions to date, and the designation of each model is most commonly a Roman numeral . All generations use two-litre intercooled turbo inline four-cylinder engines and all-wheel drive systems. The Lancer was originally intended only for Japanese markets, but demand on the "grey import" market led

16625-435: Was originally formed in 1970 from the automotive division of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries . Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation , which builds commercial-grade trucks, buses, and heavy construction equipment, was formerly a part of Mitsubishi Motors, but is now owned by German automotive corporation Daimler Truck , with Mitsubishi continuing to own a small stake. Mitsubishi's automotive origins date back to 1917, when

16758-410: Was over 75,000 vehicles annually. Following the successful introduction of the first Galant in 1969 and similar growth with its commercial-vehicle division, the company decided to create a single operation to focus on the automotive industry. Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) was formed on 22 April 1970, as a wholly owned subsidiary of MHI under the leadership of Tomio Kubo, a successful engineer from

16891-616: Was produced for almost 10 years until Mitsubishi retired the Lancer Evolution in April 2016. The first Lancer Evolution used the 2.0 L turbocharged DOHC engine and AWD drivetrain from the original Galant VR-4 in a Lancer chassis, and was sold in GSR and RS models. This engine was also used in the Mitsubishi RVR with the Hyper Sports Gear trim package, and the Mitsubishi Chariot Resort Runner GT . The RS

17024-428: Was released, aimed at fishing enthusiasts ( bass fishers in particular). This package was available for the entire lineup and consisted of various extras suitable for sport fishers, such as a built-in refrigerator, a fishing rod stand and holder, a roof box, additional interior and exterior lights, and special, water-repellant seat covers. The third-generation RVR, which is a subcompact crossover SUV , first released in

17157-399: Was removed, the flat floor extended all the way from the back of the front seats to the rear hatchback door. The optional sliding bench rear seats could accommodate three people, with the setup allowing rear seat passengers additional leg room by sliding the entire rear seat assembly back. Depending on seating arrangements, the rear seats can then produce a large enough interior space by sliding

17290-403: Was shut down indefinitely. In addition, Mitsubishi Motors had little support from sales in Japan, which slowed considerably throughout 1997, and were affected by that country's own economic uncertainty into 1998. Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution#Evolution I The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution , popularly referred to as the ' Evo ', is a sports sedan and rally car based on the Lancer that

17423-467: Was thus placed in a considerably higher tax grouping. This generation RVR was not sold in North America (except Mexico). In Europe, this car was restyled and sold as the Mitsubishi Space Runner . The model offers a significant facelift, which was done to mirror the image design of the Chariot Grandis and its brisk sales in 1999 at the time. Standard grades were grouped into "X" (later the "Exceed") and

17556-486: Was triggered by accusations of Mitsubishi Motors trying to systematically hide manufacturing defects to avoid recalls, and marketing problems in the US. After a starvation of new investment caused by lack of cashflow, the company introduced the award-winning Mitsubishi i kei car in 2006, its first new model in 29 months, while a revised Outlander has been introduced worldwide to compete in the popular XUV market niche. The next generation of its Lancer and Lancer Evolution

17689-434: Was upgraded in December 1993, and was produced until February 1995. It mainly consisted of handling improvements, including minor wheelbase adjustments, lighter front swaybar that connected via swaybar links to the front struts, bodywork tweaks including a larger spoiler, and tires that were 10 mm (0.4 in) wider. This Evolution also has a 50 L (13.2 US gal; 11.0 imp gal) fuel tank. Power output

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