The 2008 Lancer Evolution showcases new performance and handling technology, including an all-new 291-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged and intercooled engine and the Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) dynamic handling system. S-AWC regulates drive torque at each wheel by controlling a network of dynamic handling technologies, including: Active Center Differential (ACD) 4-wheel drive, Active Yaw Control (AYC) rear differential, Active Stability Control (ASC), and Sport ABS brakes. Integration of ASC is new for all markets. A helical gear-type limited-slip front differential is used.
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The 2008 Lancer Evolution is powered by a 2.0-liter intercooled-turbocharged 2.0-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder based on a reinforced cast-aluminum cylinder block. Unlike the 4G63 engine used in the previous Lancer Evolution, the new 4B11 engine does not use a balancer shaft, made possible by the new engine's inherently lower noise and vibration and use of hydraulic engine mounts.
The new engine employs a direct-acting valvetrain in place of the previous roller rocker arm configuration for reduced weight. A timing chain replaces the belt, and MIVEC variable valve timing is used on both the intake and exhaust camshafts (the 4G63 had MIVEC on the intake only). The rear-located (firewall side) stainless steel exhaust manifold helps improve weight distribution.
A shark-nosed front end inspired by jet fighter air intakes, a distinct wedge-like profile and crisp, taut lines highlight the basic design. The new Lancer Evolution looks the part of a street-wise sports machine with its unique front end, aggressively sloping hood with integral air scoop and engine heat outlets, boxed fenders and 18-inch wheels.
Two Lancer Evolution models will be offered in the U.S. for 2008: the GSR with a new 5-speed manual transmission and the Lancer Evolution MR with a new 6-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST), an automated manual transmission with magnesium steering wheel shifter paddles and a console shifter. The MR is also equipped exclusively with Bilstein shock absorbers and Eibach springs, two-piece brake rotors, BBS forged-alloy wheels, HID headlamps and Bluetooth wireless capability.
A longer wheelbase and wider track form the foundation for better handling and stability in the 2008 Lancer Evolution.
The basic all-new Lancer platform – already stiffer than the previous-generation Lancer Evolution IX – is further reinforced for the 2008 Lancer Evolution. The roof, hood, front fenders and both the front and rear bumper beams are aluminum. The battery and windshield washer fluid tank are mounted in the trunk area for better weight distribution.
The Lancer Evolution features its own suspension system, including inverted struts in front and a rear multi-link configuration. Forged aluminum components reduce unsprung weight. The 18 x 8.5-inch wheels (Enkei cast-alloy on GSR and BBS forged-alloy on MR) carry 245/40R18 Yokohama ADVAN asymmetrical performance tires, a change from the 17 x 8-inch wheels with 235/45R17 directional tires used on the previous model.
The 2008 Lancer Evolution is now a markedly better car for everyday driving. The suspension is tuned to provide a more compliant and stable ride than before without compromising handling performance. Inside, the Lancer Evolution shows a new international flair. The new Recaro seats integrate new side airbags. Available user technology, including Rockford Fosgate® audio and navigation systems, reflects the tastes of a broadening customer base. Standard safety features include an advanced dual front air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with occupant sensors, standard front seat-mounted side-impact air bags and side curtain air bags, plus a driver's knee air bag.
Key Specifications
| Wheelbase | 104.3 in. |
| Length | 177.0 in. |
| Height | 58.3 in. |
| Width | 71.3 in. |
| Engine | DOHC MIVEC 2.0-liter inline 4; intercooled/turbocharged |
| Horsepower | 291 @ 6,500 rpm |
| Torque | 300 lb.-ft. (est.) @ 4,400 rpm |
| Transmission | GSR: 5-speed manual MR: 6-speed TC-SST with magnesium steering wheel shifter paddles |
| Dynamics | Super-All Wheel Control with Active Center Differential (ACD) 4-wheel drive, Active Yaw Control (AYC) rear differential, Active Stability Control (ASC) and Sports ABS |
| Wheels | GSR: 18 x 8.5 Enkei cast alloy MR: 18 x 8.5 BBS forged alloy |
| Tires | 245/40R18 Yokohama ADVAN asymmetrical performance tires |
Major Standard Features
- 140-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with digital signal processing, MP3 playback capability and six speakers
- Anti-theft engine immobilizer and security alarm
- Automatic climate control system
- Center floor console box with armrest
- Color-keyed outer door handles and side view mirrors
- Cruise control
- Dual-stage front air bag SRS with front passenger occupant sensors, curtain side air bags, driver's knee air bag, and front seat mounted side-impact air bags
- Floor mats
- Fog lights
- Folding side view mirrors
- Front map lamps
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
- Power door locks
- Power windows with driver's one-touch up/down
- Rear seat heater floor ducts
- Rear spoiler
- Recaro bucket seats (front)
- Remote keyless entry system
- Side marker lamps
- Tilt-adjustable steering column
MR Adds:
- Twin Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST) with magnesium steering wheel shifter paddles
- BBS forged alloy wheels
- Bilstein shock absorbers and Eibach springs
- Two-piece brake rotors
- Hands-free Bluetooth cellular phone interface system with voice recognition
- HID headlamps
- Large type rear wing
- Steering wheel audio controls
GSR Sight, Sound and Spoiler Package adds: HID headlamps, large rear spoiler and the Rockford-Fosgate® 650-watt (max.) Premium Sound System with 10-in. subwoofer, plus a 6-disc in-dash CD changer with MP3 capability, and SIRIUS® Satellite Radio and a six-month service subscription.
MR Technology Package adds: Rockford-Fosgate audio system with subwoofer and SIRIUS Satellite Radio with six-month service subscription; 30-gigabyte hard disk drive (HDD) navigation system with 7.5-inch touch screen and music server function; Mitsubishi Multi-Communication System, and the FAST Key™ entry system.
