2006 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX
March 24, 2005 — NEW YORK — Loaded with power and aerodynamic enhancements culled from Mitsubishi’s rally-racing success during the past 13 years, the Lancer IX was introduced today at the New York International Automobile Show. It is the 12th model in a series of Mitsubishi Motors’ award-winning sedans and was originally introduced to satisfy FIA Group A rally specifications that called for a production model.
Evolution
The 2006 Lancer features a standard two-liter DOHC 16-valve I-4 intercooled turbocharged engine, which is enhanced this year with variable valve technology (VVT). This Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing and lift Electronic Control (MIVEC) system utilizes a VVT sprocket to optimize valve timing relative to the engine condition. This technological advancement, combined with enhancements to the vehicle’s turbocharger, produces higher torque and better response for improved engine performance across the complete rpm range. New gear ratios on the models’ standard five-speed manual transmission take full advantage of the increased power.
True to its racing heritage, the Lancer Evolution IX also features a number of exterior enhancements to further improve the aerodynamics and cooling performance of the vehicle. A new front fascia houses an oversize mesh grille and front center bumper air inlets to improve engine-cooling efficiency.
Complementing the exterior enhancements, Mitsubishi Motors engineers also updated the Lancer Evolution IX interior. The driver is strapped in front of a new dark three-spoke, height-adjustable Momo steering wheel and carbon fiber-style instrument, center and shift panels. Standard Recaro bucket seats feature Alcantara upholstery.
The Lancer Evolution IX is available in stock trim, as well as RS and an MR edition featuring a six-speed close-ratio manual transmission and Bilstein monotube shock absorbers. Owners can further customize their vehicles to meet individual tastes through a comprehensive range of factory- and dealer-installed options including new air dam extensions and rear-wing wicker bills.
Story by Mitsubishi Motors North America, edited by Supercars.net
In Detail
| submitted by | Richard Owen |
| engine | Cast Iron Inline-4 |
| position | Front, Transverse |
| aspiration | Twin Scroll Turbocharger w/Intercooler |
| valvetrain | DOHC, 4 Valves per Cyl w/MIVEC VVT |
| fuel feed | Electronic Fuel Injection |
| displacement | 1997 cc / 121.9 in³ |
| bore | 85.09 mm / 3.35 in |
| stroke | 87.88 mm / 3.46 in |
| compression | 8.8:1 |
| power | 213.3 kw / 286 bhp @ 6500 rpm |
| specific output | 143.21 bhp per litre |
| bhp/weight | 191.95 bhp per tonne |
| torque | 391.83 nm / 289 ft lbs @ 3500 rpm |
| redline | 7000 |
| body / frame | Unit Steel |
| driven wheels | Full Time 4WD w/active Center Differential, Front Limited Slip, Rear Mechincal Limited Slip |
| front tires | P235/45R17 |
| rear tires | P235/45R17 |
| front brakes | Brembro Discs w/4-Piston Calipers, ABS, EBD |
| f brake size | x 320 mm / x 12.6 in |
| rear brakes | Brembro Discs w/Twin-Piston Calipers, ABS, EBD |
| r brake size | x 305 mm / x 12 in |
| front wheels | F 43.2 x 20.3 cm / 17 x 8 in |
| rear wheels | R 43.2 x 20.3 cm / 17 x 8 in |
| steering | Rack & Pinion w/Power Assist |
| f suspension | MacPherson Struts w/Bilstein Shock Absorbers, Trailing Links, Lateral Links, Stabilizer Bar |
| r suspension | Mulit-Link w/Bilstein Shock Absorbers, Trailing Links, Lateral Links, Stabilizer Bar |
| curb weight | 1490 kg / 3285 lbs |
| wheelbase | 2625 mm / 103.3 in |
| front track | 1515 mm / 59.6 in |
| rear track | 1515 mm / 59.6 in |
| length | 4535 mm / 178.5 in |
| width | 1770 mm / 69.7 in |
| height | 1450 mm / 57.1 in |
| transmission | 6-Speed Manual |
| gear ratios | 2.909:1, 1.944:1, 1.434:1, 1.100:1, 0.868:1, 0.693:1, :1 |
| final drive | 4.538:1 |
| top speed | ~249.4 kph / 155 mph |
| 0 – 60 mph | ~4.7 seconds |
| 0 – 100 mph | ~12.7 seconds |
| 0 – 1/4 mile | ~13.5 seconds |
