Full-time S-AWC (Super All-Wheel Control) on Ralliart and Evolution, featuring Active Center Differential (ACD) and optional Active Yaw Control (AYC)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
177.4 inches (4506 mm)
Width:
69.4 inches (1763 mm)
Height:
58.5 inches (1486 mm)
Wheelbase:
104.7 inches (2659 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Base:
Approx. 3,000 lbs (1361 kg)
Curb Weight Evolution G Gsr:
Approx. 3,417 lbs (1550 kg)
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
12.2 cubic feet (345 liters) (approx.)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
5-Star (for driver and front passenger)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for models equipped with optional side airbags)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard (4-wheel disc brakes)
Ebd:
Standard
Traction Control:
Standard
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard (Mitsubishi Electronic Stability Control - MESC)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, optional front side-impact airbags and side-curtain airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Available Rockford-Fosgate premium audio system, CD/MP3 player, SiriusXM Satellite Radio capability.
Navigation:
Optional touch-screen navigation system on higher trim levels.
Driver Assistance
Key Features:
Hill Start Assist (on some models), keyless entry and ignition.
Performance Aids:
Active Center Differential (ACD) and Active Yaw Control (AYC) on Evolution models provide advanced torque vectoring and handling control.
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Available Bluetooth hands-free phone system.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months with synthetic oil (refer to specific model/engine requirements in manual).
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) under normal conditions.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs.
Transmission Fluid:
Inspect fluid level regularly. Replace CVT fluid every 45,000 miles (72,000 km). Manual transmission fluid and SST fluid per schedule (e.g., 60,000 miles).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30 (API SM or higher certified) for most gasoline engines; consult manual for specific requirements.
Coolant:
DIAQueen Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual; typically ATF DEXRON-III or equivalent for hydraulic systems, or specific electric power steering fluid.
Known Issues
Cvt Issues:
Some CVT models experienced issues with premature wear or shuddering; proper fluid changes are critical.
Engine Mounts:
Front engine mounts can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration.
Turbo Charger Ralliart Evo:
Proper warm-up and cool-down procedures are essential for turbo longevity. Intermittent turbocharger issues can occur.
Acd Pump Failure:
The ACD pump on AWD models can fail over time, requiring replacement.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mitsubishi Motors:
Established Japanese automaker with a long history in automotive manufacturing, including motorsports.
Model Evolution
Lancer Generations:
The 2009 model represents the tenth generation (CZ/CY) of the Mitsubishi Lancer, launched globally in late 2007.
Performance Legacy:
Built on the Lancer's strong rally heritage, particularly the Lancer Evolution series, which has achieved significant success in the World Rally Championship (WRC).
Production
Assembly Locations:
Primary assembly in Mizushima, Japan; also produced in other global facilities.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
IIHS Award:
Named a 'Top Safety Pick' by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in multiple years.
Performance Acclaim:
Lancer Evolution variants consistently praised for their exceptional performance, handling, and technology, often winning comparison tests against rivals.