Concept X
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Inspiration for the Evo X
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The Mitsubishi Lancer has evolved through many generations now with the Evo IX currently enjoying the spotlight. It's about to be eclipsed though by the brand new Lancer which marks a new beginning for the car with a revolutionary new body style and a new engine.
The Concept-X show car is powered by a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder DOHC MIVEC intercooler-turbocharged engine that delivers enormous torque throughout the rev range. The Concept-X uses a clutchless 6-speed auto-manual transmission with paddle shifters mounted on the steering column to deliver quick shifting and higher transmission efficiency than a regular manual gearbox.
A new "ring-structure" frame design produces a significant increase in body stiffness, while the use of aluminium in the bonnet, boot lid, bumpers, roof and front and rear door panels reduces weight. Weight reduction, lowering the centre of gravity and reducing the moment of inertia were all goals for the design team.
The concept car also showcases Mitsubishi’s Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) technology. A further step up the ladder for Mitsubishi Motors’ four-wheel drive traction and handling technology, S-AWC is based on Mitsubishi's full-time 4WD system, as used in the Lancer Evolution. S-AWC adds Active Brake Control, Active Steering System and Roll Control Suspension technologies to create one of the most complex - but capable - suspension arrangements available.
The production car on which the Concept X is the inspiration will go on sale in the UK midway through 2007.