2007 Mitsubishi Prototype X - AllCarIndex

Original name: 三菱 プロトタイプ X

- PROTOTYPE X -

In Detroit, Mitsubishi Motors hints today at the next generation of its iconic supercar, the much anticipated and all-new Lancer Evolution. Consistent with MMC’s impeccable sporting credentials, its high performance engine, outstanding dynamics and sharp design will appeal to enthusiasts worldwide.  As such, Prototype X also demonstrates the depth and breadth of the new Lancer sports sedan family, ranging from entry model (1.5 l in Europe) right up to the all-new Lancer Evolution, the “range topping” supercar.

Coming Soon: (R)Evolution

Heir of the Lancer 1600 GSR of the 70’s or the Lancer EX 2000 Turbo of the 80’s, the Lancer Evolution has lived up to its namesake by greatly improving with each successive generation since 1992. (Lancer Evolution VIII was the first to be officially offered in the European market).

As Prototype X demonstrates, the Lancer Evolution will soon make perhaps the largest leap in overall capability seen between two generations of this model.  The next Lancer Evolution will offer major gains in handling dynamics and technology while maintaining the kind of thrilling turbo engine performance that has made the model a legend around the world.

Although clearly based on the new Lancer and sharing its distinctive shark-mouth grille opening, Prototype X features a unique front end, rear fenders and decklid. Making a maximum-performance statement, Prototype X looks the part with its boxed fenders, aggressively sloping hood with integral air scoop, 20-inch alloy wheels with massive brakes and the high-tech LED turn signals in the sideview mirrors.

Inside, the deeply contoured bucket seats are upholstered in high-grip suede-like material An electronic lap counter hints at the car’s weekend club racer capability, while the red LED light band that spans the doors and the dash surface might suggest a customizing idea to future customers.

The user technology in Prototype X previews what will be available for the next Lancer Evolution.  While not all design features and content seen on Prototype X will make it to the production vehicle, the overall design will carry through.

Next-Gen Power

The engine powering Prototype X – and the next Lancer Evolution – is a turbocharged version of the all-new aluminum 4B11 2.0-liter DOHC MIVEC engine used in the 2008 Lancer sports sedan.

It will yield the highest power rating ever in a Lancer Evolution model. (Since development continues, final engine output figures will be revealed at a later date.) Significantly, the newest Lancer Evolution will have less differentiation from market to market than the previous generations.

The new model’s aluminum engine block is a significant 20 kg lighter than the iron-block 4G63 engine used in all previous models, which aids weight distribution.  In addition, its orientation (exhaust located on bulkhead side) allows for improved placement that helps to lower the center of gravity.

Although the new Lancer Evolution engine block is lighter, it was designed from the outset for high-performance turbocharged applications. High inherent strength has been achieved partly through over-engineering of the open deck block, and the use of large water jackets and metal areas around each siamesed cylinder bore. The reciprocating assembly of the turbocharged 4B11 is capable of withstanding high levels of boost.

Automated Manual Transmission

Prototype X is equipped with the automated manual transmission with magnesium steering wheel paddle shifters that will be available on the next Lancer Evolution.

This new transmission will offer lightning fast, paddle-shift actuated shifting when desired, along with offering a fully automatic mode. This unit is not a conventional torque-converter automatic transmission, but rather a true auto-capable manual similar to that used on some of the world’s most notable performance models.

For stick shift purists, the next Lancer Evolution will still offer a conventional 5-speed manual transmission.  With the 4B11 turbo engine’s stronger torque performance, a 5-speed will provide optimal acceleration response.

Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC)

The next Lancer Evolution, while still providing the levels of engine performance that appeal to this model’s loyal core customers, will expand dynamic capability with the new Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) system.

Combining intelligent full-time four-wheel drive with stability control, S-AWC is a further development of the advanced full-time 4WD technology first introduced on the new-generation Outlander SUV for 2007.

In Prototype X – and the upcoming Lancer Evolution – this next-generation system combines an Active Center Differential (ACD) with an Active Yaw Control (AYC) rear differential and Active Skid Control (ASC). The AYC rear differential has never been offered on a Lancer Evolution sold in the U.S. market.

The combination of all these technologies will help the Lancer Evolution make optimal use of its considerable torque and also ensure the highest level of dynamic capability and stability ever in this model. At the same time, the new technology will further enhance the exhilarating driving performance character that customers have come to expect from this model.

The next Lancer Evolution once again features its own suspension system, replacing steel stampings of the standard Lancer with race-proven forged aluminum components. Due to the high rigidity of the new “Project Global” platform, the Evolution’s suspension can be tuned to provide a more compliant and stable ride than before without compromising handling performance – a trait that is expected from a true world-class performance sedan.

With exciting performance* assured Mitsubishi will be able to equip the upcoming Lancer Evolution to be a markedly better car for everyday driving. User technologies introduced on the new Outlander and Lancer models will also be offered in the next Lancer Evolution, including a premium Rockford-Fosgate® 650-watt (max.) audio system, HDD navigation system with music server, Bluetooth®, steering wheel audio controls, and an automatic climate control system.

*within legal limits

SOURCE: Mitsubishi