Sunday Stories : Outlander GT Prototype in the Flesh... Unfortunately.

We finally succeeded in getting hi-res pictures of the Outlander GT prototype and we're pretty disappointed.
We at NihonCar.com really like the stock Outlander for its versatility and ability to really go off road and not being ONLY a urban family carrier. The Outlander GT prototype seems to really go against the “Outlander” mainly due to its low chassis and front bumper design that will stop you from any off road activities.

Let’s talk about the new and redesigned bumper and front grill. We love it on the Lancer Evo, we accepted it on the Colt, but on the Outlander it's really ugly… As we said… the Outlander GT prototype is quite a disappointment.

Building on the success of the Mitsubishi Outlander, Mitsubishi Motors North America today conducted the World debut of a distinctive new model that takes the compact SUV to another new level of performance and sportiness - the Mitsubishi Outlander GT Prototype. The all-new design study is the centerpiece of the Mitsubishi Motors exhibit at the New York International Auto Show, which continues through April 19.

The Diamond white Outlander GT Prototype infuses performance and design inspiration from Mitsubishi's Lancer sport sedans and provides clear indicators of the future of Outlander.

"The Outlander GT Prototype is packed with technology, performance and premium features that are uncommon in the compact SUV class," commented John Koenig, executive vice president of Mitsubishi Motors North America. "Along with its faster heartbeat, we also wanted to quicken pulses by channeling the look of our sportiest cars."

A front grille design inspired by the Lancer Evolution's "jet fighter" look is clearly in play on the Outlander GT Prototype, which sports complementary new design elements, such as a reshaped front bumper, side mirrors, fenders and hood. Reshaped Bi-Xenon HID headlamps, a new rear bumper and side sills, plus a bold polished finish on the already standard aluminum roof panel accentuate the sporty appeal.

The Outlander GT Prototype also benefits from improvements to the all-aluminum 3.0-liter SOHC MIVEC V6 currently found in the Outlander XLS, including a reduction in intake restriction plus optimized camshaft timing and compression ratio. The engine changes raise maximum output by 10 horsepower, for a total of 230 horsepower, with an improved torque curve for more responsive city driving and enhanced fuel economy and emissions.

To further increase fuel economy, the Outlander GT Prototype features an upgraded shifting program and Idle Neutral Logic, which automatically, and smoothly, shifts into neutral during vehicle standstill. It reengages at the slightest lift of the foot off the brake pedal, thereby providing instantaneous response.

Source
NihonCar

DVR-DS120, Mitsubishi latest DVD Recorder

For just 40000 Yen (300€) here you are Mitsubishi latest DVR, the DVR-DS120, with 250GB of internal HDD, a DVD burner, a Digital TV tuner and the capability to record HD Video thanks to its support to AVCREC. Definitively not the most powerful DVR ever made but if you just need to record Magnum PI time to time, this will be far to be enough !

Source
Mitsubishi

Mitsubishi DVR-BF2000

DVR-BF2000: Nice Blu-Ray DVR from Mitsubishi Available in Japan

For those who live in Japan, in Akihabara you can find Mitsubishi's new Blu-ray recorder.

The DVR-BF2000 features 500GB of HDD, two digital TV tuners, and a BD-R/RE drive. It can record two programs simultaneously, and supports DVD-R/RW recording and AVC recording to DVD.

178,000 Yen (1,500€).

Source
Akihabaranews

Paris Motor Show 2008: The New Mitsubishi Colt

Paris Motor Show 2008: The New Mitsubishi Colt

Here's a shiny all new Colt from Mitsubishi. Available in three or five doors, our Colt has a new grille very similar to its big sister the Lancer/Galant. If we're not too excited about the stock version, the Ralliart will for sure be the model we'll try to get our hands on ASAP!

Colt (European market model)
Mitsubishi Motors launched the Colt series in Europe in 2004, and since that time it has sold some 270,000 models. The series includes many variants including the 5-door Colt, 3-door Colt CZ3, turbocharged 3-door Colt CZT and soft-top Colt CZC.
Major changes to the new European Colt unveiled at the Paris Motor Show include the Mitsubishi Motors signature inverted-slant nose and trapezoidal "jet fighter" grille also used on the Lancer series. The 5-door body models also feature a restyled rear end and are joined by a new turbocharged trim level. A new Colt Ralliart trim level is offered in both 5-door and 3-door versions.
The new Colt series also reflects Mitsubishi Motors' strong commitment to the environment. The low-CO2 Colt Clear Tec model is powered by a 1.1- or 1.3-liter engine which incorporates the company's AS&G (auto stop-&-go) idling stop system. In addition, the 1.3-liter Colt Clear Tec FFV caters to growing demand for flexible-fuel vehicles.

Source
NihonCar

Sunday Stories: Mitsubishi Racing Lancer : Mitsubishi's Racing Lancer To Enter The Portuguese Baja Permalink Mitsubishi's Racing Lancer To Enter The

Mitsubishi Racing Lancer : Mitsubishi's Racing Lancer To Enter The Portuguese Baja

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) and its motorsport unit MMSP have developed a new cross-country rally car, the turbodiesel "Racing Lancer" which will be entered Baja Portalegre / Portugal.

The team's 2008 calendar also features selected rounds of the inaugural Dakar Series, the FIA Cross-Country Rally World Cup and the FIA international Cup for Cross-Country Bajas with the tried and tested Pajero/Montero Evolution.

In parallel to its competition activities, Team Repsol Mitsubishi Ralliart is also furthering the development of the new "Racing Lancer" with the clear objective of winning the Dakar in 2009.

As officially revealed, the team's latest cross-country rally car will be powered by a new turbocharged diesel engine which has already been put through its paces in a specific version of the Pajero/Montero Evolution on the following races: the Central Europe Rally (the first event of the newly-created Dakar Series), the Rali Transiberico (second round of FIA Cross-Country Rally World Cup) and the Baja Espana (round three of the FIA International Cup for Cross-Country Bajas).

Competing at rally speeds against the sport's leading teams has enabled the team to gather a vast amount of valuable data which could not have been obtained through testing alone. Hiroshi Masuoka (Japan) has competed twice with the turbocharged Pajero/Montero Evolution and is typically enthusiastic about the newcomer's potential: "The diesel version is overwhelmingly easy to drive thanks to its tremendous torque which is available over an even broader rev-band," says Masuoka. "It outperforms the petrol-powered car in terms of controllability over challenging terrain, as well as when accelerating out of corners and along high-speed straights. With the right set-up it would be comfortably faster."

Joan 'Nani' Roma (Spain) drove a Pajero/Montero Evolution, with the new turbodiesel grafted into it, on the Rali Transiberico. He reported that he had to adapt his driving style to the new engine's torque characteristics. Roma succeeded in posting three fastest stage times on the Portuguese event and actually led at one point, speaking volumes for the potential of the new engine.

This experimental car covered more than 8,000km in testing and competition, and the engineers in charge of the program have profited from this opportunity to develop a new suspension geometry designed to cope with the different weight distribution and torque characteristics associated with the new turbocharged diesel engine. They have also worked on a new engine compartment layout which is aimed at ensuring better cooling for the engine and auxiliary components. Technical improvements to the turbocharger have produced improved response at low revs, as well as more power at high engine speeds, while reliability has also been enhanced.

The "Racing Lancer" took part in two one-week test sessions in Spain and Morocco towards the end of June following its unveiling earlier in the month. With the basic performance package now confirmed and initial teething problems cured, the team is taking advantage of the considerable experience obtained with the Pajero/Montero Evolution to accelerate the new vehicle's development.

Continuing the build-up to the 2009 Dakar, the team has entered three petrol versions of the Pajero/Montero Evolution for Portugal's PAX Rally, the second event of the newly-created Dakar Series (Tuesday September 9 - Sunday September 14). The three cars will be driven by Stéphane Peterhansel (France), Luc Alphand (France), and Joan "Nani" Roma (Spain). The outing will enable the team to carry out work on the suspension and tires which will be carried over to the Racing Lancer.

The Racing Lancer itself will undergo further testing in Morocco between the end of August and the beginning of September, as well as over the latter part of October. Each test will last approximately two weeks and the car will cover some 4,000km each time. Following its extensive development program, the Racing Lancer will make its official debut on the Baja Portalegre / Portugal, round six of the 2008 FIA Cross-Country Rally World Cup (Thursday October 30 - Sunday November 2). The car will be in the hands of Stéphane Peterhansel, the Dakar's most successful competitor with a total of nine outright wins - on two and four wheels - under his belt.

Source
NihonCar

Sunday Stories : Mitsubishi New Pajero

New Mitsubishi Pajero Sport SUV to be Unveiled at the 2008 Moscow Motor Show

The Pajero for some means a formidable 4x4 vehicle, for others it's an "insult" that we won't even start explaining here at NihonCar.com. Anyway, if you're one of those looking for a sportier Pajero you'll be pleased. With a redesigned front grill, rear trunk, and more dynamic lines... For the rest, we'll have to wait until the end of September for more pictures of this new SUV.

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation will unveil its new Pajero Sport*1 SUV model at the Moscow Auto Salon 2008 (The Moscow Motor Show) to be held at the Crocus Expo in Moscow between August 26 and September 7 (opens to the public on August 29). The new Pajero Sport will be phased in selected regions*2 such as Russia, the ASEAN area, the Middle East, Latin America and Oceania starting in the fall this year.
*1 The model will carry a different name in different markets: Montero Sport in South America, Nativa in Latin America and Challenger in Australia.
*2 The new Pajero Sport will neither be sold in Central & Western Europe nor in North America, where other types of SUVs are favored.

The new Pajero Sport features dynamic and sporty exterior lines, complemented by a stylish and vast interior space that engenders a sense of comfort, purpose and safety. This cabin, available in either a 2-row (5-passenger) or 3-row (7-passenger) seating configuration is also very practical with water-repellent seats and a waterproof luggage compartment floor, ideal for leisure use.

Mitsubishi's latest SUV will be powered by a choice of three engines which all deliver outstanding motive performance and fuel economy: 2.5-liter and 3.2-liter common rail direct injection diesel units and a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline unit*3.

In terms of architecture, the body of the Pajero Sport is mounted on a new ladder frame to realize high levels of durability and reliability, consistent with the needs of its target markets.

Mitsubishi's All Wheel Control philosophy, forged through its participation in the Dakar Rally and other contests, informs all of the company's 4WD systems. The new model will use the Super Select 4WD system, also used in the Pajero*4 SUV, which transmits drive torque effectively to all four wheels on all types of surface. The body, frame and driveline not only give Pajero Sport outstanding off-road performance but allow it to deliver excellent drive dynamics over all surfaces.

The choice of the Moscow Motor Show to unveil the new Pajero Sport is a clear indication of Russia's eminent position within Mitsubishi Motors. In fiscal 2007 Mitsubishi Motors sold some 100,000 vehicles on the Russian market, boosted by the ever successful Lancer line-up and a popular range of SUVs.

MMC is confident that the new Pajero Sport SUV will make a strong addition to its SUV range, which also includes the Pajero and Outlander. Coming on the heels of the introduction of the Lancer*5 sports sedan last year, this will allow MMC to expand SUV sales and hit a total sales volume of 140,000 units on the Russian market in fiscal 2008.
*3 Russian-spec vehicle will only be available with the 3.2-liter diesel engine and 2-row, 5-passenger capacity seating arrangement.
*4 "Montero" in Spanish-speaking countries and "Shogun' in the UK.

Source
NihonCar

Sunday Stories: Mitsubishi MRX09

Mitsubishi Introduces the New 'Racing Lancer' (MRX09) for the 2009 Dakar

Have you ever dreamed of seeing an EVO X running at the Dakar? Well pace yourself since Mitsubishi will have a MRX09 Racing Lancer ready to fight at the 2009 Dakar!

The MRX09 is a "Cross-Country" class rally car, and this code name stands for Mitsubishi Rally "Cross-Country"(X) sitck with the 09 of 2009. Based on the Lancer Sportback's body, our almighty MRX09 will sure put some spice on next year Dakar.

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has developed a new competition car, the Racing Lancer, whose mission will be to target victory at next year's Dakar. In 2009 it will break new ground with a switch from Africa to South America. For Mitsubishi Motors, not only does the Dakar serve as a platform for the sales and marketing of the Pajero/Montero, but also provides a unique proving ground for powertrains and 4WD transmission systems. In light of the corporate decision to focus the firm's cross-country rallying activities on the development of a new diesel engine, Mitsubishi Motors sees it as a natural step for the Lancer (known in Japan as Gallant Fortis), a commercially and globally important model powered with a diesel powerplant, to take the competition baton from the Pajero/Montero and the Pajero/Montero Evolution. The technological expertise accumulated thanks to the firm's cross-country rally program - which includes the Dakar - will be applied to its diesel engine development, including the new-generation clean diesel that will power future production cars. As was previously the case, 4WD systems technology will also be carried over to the production versions after their configuration has been optimized.

Under its new corporate communication tagline 'Drive@earth', Mitsubishi Motors has a commitment to providing the joy of mobility for customers worldwide while at the same time taking a responsible stance on the environment. Team Repsol Mitsubishi Ralliart will also play an important role as an integral part of the automobile research and development program.

The Racing Lancer is a Super Production Cross-Country Rally Car that has been developed in compliance with FIA Group T1 regulations (modified cross-country rally cars). It also complies with the new rules due to come into force in 2010. Needless to say, the new rally car has profited from the technical expertise and experience gained with the Pajero/Montero and the Pajero/Montero Evolution which secured 12 outright Dakar wins during its uninterrupted 25-year participation on the celebrated African event, a sequence which began with the fifth edition of the rally in 1983. The MRX09 features a new, multi-tubular steel frame which has benefited from advanced CAE analysis with a view to optimizing the layout and dimensioning of the tubing. The car will be powered by the 3.0-liter V6 turbocharged diesel engine which the company is currently developing on qualifying rounds of the 2008 Dakar Series and the 2008 FIA Cross-Country Rally World Cup. The carbon-fiber bodywork of the MRX09 is redolent of the Lancer Sportback, a new sporty hatchback due to be released in Europe this summer. The new car will be equipped with the same 4WD system, drive train, suspension, and brakes following their modification in accordance with the new technical regulations, and as a function of the characteristics of the diesel turbo powerplant.

* MRX09: The new codename for Mitsubishi's latest cross-country rally challenger. 'MRX09' stands for 'Mitsubishi Rally 'Cross Country'('X'), plus a suffix for the year in which it competes ('09' = 2009).

Source
NihonCar

Sunday Stories: Gallant Fortis RalliART

Mitsubishi Motors Announces Its Galant Fortis RALLIART 4WD Sedan

Less extreme than its big “sister” the EvoX, the Galant Fortis Ralliart (Lancer) is another 4WD sports car alternative from Mitsubishi.

Pretty close to the EVO X when it comes to the look and feel, our Ralliart Version will “only” receive a 240 PS engine instead of the 280 from the EVO X, as well as a torque of 343Nm (422Nm on the Evo X).
The Ralliart Galant fortis also receives a 4WD transmission with the famous ACD Mode (Tarmac, Gravel and Snow), the Twin Clutch SST, a mechanical rear LSD...

If you were looking to get the Evox X design but did not necessarily wanted to get the power, the Ralliart Galant Fortis (Lancer) is definitely a good choice!

Tokyo, July 9 2008 — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation announces the addition of the premium sporty 4WD RALLIART trim level to the Galant Fortis sedan series. The new model raises the driving pleasure bar while retaining all the utility and comfort qualities of the base model. RALLIART comes with a price tag of 2,982,000 and goes on sale at affiliated dealership throughout Japan today.

Launched in August 2007 Galant Fortis*1 was MMC's first new sedan model in seven years. It has been well received by customers looking principally for everyday utility plus a taste of sporty performance, while the Lancer Evolution X*2 finds favor with those drivers looking to enjoy a serious sport driving experience, participation in motorsport events included. The new Galant Fortis RALLIART strikes an excellent balance between everyday driving comfort and fun-to-drive dynamic performance and as such will meet the needs and demands of a wide spectrum of customers.

*1 Lancer in markets outside Japan.
*2 Lancer Evolution in markets outside Japan.

1. Exterior
* The car features a unique front bumper designed to reduce air resistance. Increasing the size of the "jet-fighter" grille, an element of the MMC sedan design identity, both improves engine cooling and with the chrome treatment of its perimeter enhances the premium look to the car. The bottom edge of the bumper is designed as an air dam for improved handling and vehicle stability at higher speeds.
* The engine hood uses a lightweight aluminum panel with an air scoop to feed the turbocharger; twin air outlets discharge heat from the engine compartment.
* The unique rear bumper accommodates twin tail pipes. The bumper's design enhances airflow control and contributes to better straight-line stability at higher speeds.
* The factory-fitted option rear decklid wing-spoiler generates effective downforce.
* The grille and trunk lid carry the RALLIART emblem.

2. Interior
* The interior uses an elegant deep black color scheme while the dashboard features an ornamentation panel comprising a geometric check pattern and silver pin beading that adds a mechanical taste and gives the cockpit a sporty, high-quality appearance.
* The unique instrument cluster dials use matte black faces with white high-contrast graphics for excellent legibility.
* The steering wheel and shifter knob are wrapped in luxurious genuine leather. The aluminum accelerator and brake pedals are fitted with non-slip rubber strips.
* The front seats keep the occupant securely and comfortably positioned and use high-grip suede-knit upholstery. The shoulder bolster carries the RALLIART tag.

3. Engine
* Galant Fortis RALLIART is powered by an intercooler-turbocharged 4B11-type 2.0-liter 16-valve DOHC MIVEC*1 high-performance engine. With the focus on low- to mid-range torque, the engine uses a single-scroll turbocharger. Optimization of the cooling and exhaust systems boosts output to maxima of 177 kW (240 PS) / 6000 rpm and 343 Nm (35.0 kg-m) / 3000 rpm.
* Galant Fortis RALLIART returns 10-15 mode combined driving pattern fuel consumption of 10.2 km/l (filed with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism), and earns a 3-star rating for emissions that are 50% better than the Japanese 2005 Emission Standards.

*1: Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control system

4. Transmission
* Galant Fortis RALLIART is fitted with Mitsubishi's Twin Clutch SST (Sport Shift Transmission) automated manual transmission that allows the driver both the fun and economy of a manual gearbox plus the convenience and comfort of an automatic transmission. The Twin Clutch SST used on the Lancer Evolution X has been modified for Galant Fortis RALLIART with different ratios for 5th and 6th gears to give improved fuel economy in high-speed cruising on longer trips.
* The driver has the choice of two automated shifting modes: NORMAL for maximum fuel economy and comfort in everyday driving; and SPORT with shift characteristics best suited to sportier performance.

5. Full-time 4WD system
* Galant Fortis RALLIART uses a full-time 4WD system comprising a front helical limited slip differential, an Active Center Differential*2 and a mechanical rear LSD. These components as well as Active Stability Control*3 and Anti-lock Braking*4 are all electronically and integrally managed by Mitsubishi's vehicle dynamics control system to deliver an optimum balance between sure-footed traction and steering feel, cornering and braking performance.
* The driver can select between three ACD modes: TARMAC for dry paved surfaces; GRAVEL for wet tarmac or loose unmade surfaces; and SNOW for snow-covered surfaces.

*2: Electronically regulates the speed differential between front and rear wheels and feeds optimal level of drive torque to each wheel.
*3: Improves stability by suppressing wheel spin and sudden changes in vehicle behavior on slippery surfaces or caused by sudden steering inputs.
*4: Retains braking and steering control by preventing wheels from locking up under emergency braking and also uses Electronic Brake force Distribution for the efficient distribution of braking power to each wheel for different road surface and vehicle load conditions.

6. Body and chassis
* Galant Fortis RALLIART uses Mitsubishi's RISE*5 high-rigidity safety body that gives enhanced multi-directional crashworthiness in frontal, rear and side collisions. The front bumper, engine hood, fenders and cowl are designed for enhanced pedestrian protection.
* The suspension features stiffer control arms and mountings and the use of high-rigidity cast iron trailing arms at the rear. These changes and optimization of spring rates and shock absorber damping give RALLIART sportier handling, vehicle stability and ride.
* RALLIART uses 16-inch 2-pot caliper ventilated disc brakes at the front and with optimization of front and rear systems; delivers braking that matches its higher power output.
* RALLIART rides on 18-inch 7JJ alloy wheels fitted with 215/45R 18 89W tires.

*5: Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution






Source
Mitsubishi Motor

Mitsubishi's Laser TV

LaserVue 65" & 75": Mitsubishi's Laser TV Available This Autumn?

According to Engadget, Mitsubitshi gave a brief preview of its new TV based laser TV technology. This new TV should be available the 3rd Quarter of 2008.

Two sizes were announced: 65" and 73" with a color range twice than found on a normal HD TV. Mitsubishi remains discreet about this technology, and what advantages it has.

What we CAN say is this new laser TV provides an image-driving speed of 120Hz, and a brightness of 500cd/m². We don’t have and further information at the moment. Except for the color depth, we don’t know about real changes and enhancements over LCD and plasma technologies…

Anyway, just wait & see..

Source
Akihabaranews

Sunday Stories: Lancer Evolution MR

Mitsubishi Motors Prepares for the Lancer Evolution MR's June Arrival

It's about time! Finally, our friends in the US of A will have the chance to experience the thrill of driving the latest Lancer Evo from Mitsubishi, the EVO X MR.

If we here at NihonCar are still addicted to the Evo 9, the X is a huge step forward if you're looking for a performance car that can also gently carry your family around… It's the best performance family car ever made! Yes, I know I'm being rude to many Mitsu Fan (I'm among them), but even if the Evox is faster on the track than the previous generation, the X, it's lost a lot of the craziness we loved about the 9…


CYPRESS, CA, May 21, 2008 --
On the heels of the successful introduction of the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution GSR, Mitsubishi Motors announces the availability of the more technologically-advanced 2008 Lancer Evolution MR, the newest and most sophisticated version of the model series that began 16 years ago.
Shown coming off the production line in Japan, the Lancer Evolution MR arrives at showrooms in the U.S. in June and is available for a suggested retail price of $38,290. The MR features more user technology and a broader market appeal than the entry level GSR, including an advanced 6-speed Twin Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission.
The Lancer Evolution MR is available with an optional technology package for $40,840 that includes a 30GB hard drive navigation system with music server, 650-watt Rockford-Fosgate Premium Sound System, pre-paid Sirius Satellite Radio capability and FAST Key entry, which allows passive vehicle unlocking and engine start/stop simply by carrying the remote control and grasping the handle.
Since its introduction earlier this year, the tenth-generation 2008 Lancer Evolution GSR has met positive reactions across the industry for maintaining a balance of core performance values and improved all-around capability and user-technology:

•"Like every previous Lancer Evolution, the Evo X redeems its various idiosyncrasies with a fantastic engine and drivetrain." -- Automobile
•"The car is impressive, not only for the gains in performance and handling, but also the subtle transformation from hardcore rally racer to high performance all-wheel-drive sports sedan." - AutoWeek
•"The Evo X drives like nothing else in the world." -- Car and Driver
•"Mitsubishi has strengthened the Evo's slick-shifting five-speed manual for the tuner crowd. Shifter is nearly perfect." -- Edmunds Inside Line
•"Whether manual tabbed or left in auto, S-Sport gear changes are brutally quick with the kind of shift violence seen only in Italian exotics." -- MotorTrend
•"Is the new EVO better than before? -- The answer is a resounding 'yes.'" -- MSN Autos
•"Bottom line: It's drive-by-the-seat-of-your-pants, four-wheel fun." -- Popular Mechanics
•"The new Lancer Evolution is no longer just for weekend boy racers; it has evolved into a complete sports sedan, one with enough of a wild side to thrill anyone." -- Road & Track

"The introduction of the 2008 Lancer Evolution MR with TC-SST gives us an opportunity to expand upon the existing Evolution customer base," said Dan Kuhnert, executive vice president of sales and marketing for MMNA. "The added capability and functionality of the new Lancer Evolution vehicles make them a more viable option for everyday driving, while maintaining the rally-inspired heritage that has made the series a global performance car icon."
Both 2008 Lancer Evolution models will be on display at the 2008 Mitsubishi Owner's Day taking place in Cypress, CA on July 19, 2008.

Source
Nihoncar

Sunday Stories: Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR

New Impreza WRX = New Lancer Evo!

Mitsubishi's answer to the Subaru Impreza WRX STi Spec C (or the other way around) is the Evolution X MR (Mitsubishi Racing).

The MR version is rumored to provide more power (300+hp while the standard version produces 280) and an improved double clutch SST gearbox. Other information remains secret as Mitsubishi fine tunes and test drives their new baby.

We'll hit you with the latest info as soon as it comes into our possession.

Source
NihonCar

Sunday Stories: Colt Ralliart Version-R Special

Colt Ralliart Version-R Special !!

Last year Mitsubishi announced a little power bump for the 2008 version, now we're thrilled to hear that Mitsubishi has released yet another version of the 2008 Ralliart Version-R, the Version-R Special.

So what's so special about this new little Colt? Technically speaking there's no change whatsoever to either the engine bay or the engine itself, but a major improvement has been made to the car’s rigidity. Thanks to the adoption of Continuous Welding (pictured below) Mitsubishi succeeded in increasing rigidity by 10%, providing better handling response and decreased rolling.

Source
NihonCar

Sunday Stories: HKS Evo X

HKS Evo X

The folks over at the HKS blog shared this nice picture of their amazing tuned Evo X. So what should we expect?

Basically the electronics have been tuned a little with the HKS EVC5, F-CON and VAC Type M System. As far the engine compartment is concerned, HKS used their great turbo hard pipes, blow off valve, as well as their suction kit.

Unfortunately there is NO information regarding the final output of this beast since HKS is STILL in the test phase.

Sunday Stories: Tsukuba Time Attack

Car Top Reminds Us of 26 Years of the Tsukuba Time Attack

Located in Shimotsuma, Tsukuba neighborhood, the Tsukuba Circuit was built in the early seventies as a way of introducing youngsters to motor sports. Made famous by video games, tuner challenges, and Japanese video magazines, this short race track of just over 2 kilometers and 14 corners has become a kind of "benchmark circuit," and used by most manufacturers and enthusiasts for racing, hot lapping, and drifting.

The Japanese magazine Car Top recently published an interesting article about the last 26 years of time attack made by 100% stock vehicles at Tsukuba, and the standings reveal a couple surprises...

Overall general standings:

1- Nissan GT-R (R35) : 1'02"143
2- Nissan Skyline GT-R Vspec (BCNR33) : 1'03"58
3- Porsche 911 Turbo (2007-2008 ) : 1'04"12
4- Lamborghini Gallardo (6MT) : 1"04"14
5- Impreza WRX STI Spec C (2006) : 1'04"17
6- NSX Type-R : 1'04"20
7- Lancer Evolution VIII MR RS : 1'04"40
8- Nissan Skyline GT-R Vspec (BNR34) : 1'04"55
9- Impreza WRX STI spec C (2002) : 1'04"63
10- Lamborghini Gallardo (eGear) : 1'04"63

The Skyline GTR used to dominate Tsukuba and Nissan's new super car, the GTR, perpetuates that tradition by dominating with an impressive lead over...and quite surprising, another Nissan: the R33 GTR, faster than a 997 Porsche 911 Turbo!

With short straight lines and tight corners, Tsukuba Circuit gives a big advantage to All Wheel Drive (AWD) cars and the Honda NSX, in 6th position, is the only non-AWD car of the bunch, beating excellent machines such as Lancer Evo, Impreza WRX, R34 GTR and the amazing Gallardo by Lamborghini. Things would probably be very different on a bigger track like Suzuka. With the exception of the Nissan GTR, European sports cars would easily dominate their Japanese competitors thanks to superior torque and top speeds.

Luxury/Sports sedan Top 5:

1- Toyota Chaser Tourer V (JZX100) 1996 : 1'08"17
2- Lexus IS-F : 1'08"36
3- Nissan Skyline 350GT Type SP : 1'08"58
4- Toyota Chaser Tourer V (JZX90) 1992 : 1'08"82
5- Nissan Skyline 350GT Type S: 1'08"83

Luxury sedans, even sporty, are not a good match for the short and twisty Tsukuba Circuit and are considerably slower than sports cars...but it is interesting to see that, leading the pack, is the 12 year old Toyota Chaser, beating the likes of the brand new Lexus IS-F.

In 4th place is another Toyota Chaser, even older (1992), stuck between a couple of Skyline Sedans which are much more recent.

This fact tends to prove that most sedans are now built with comfort over performance. Even though new cars are equipped with bigger engines providing more torque, they are also heavier, feature a ton of electronic systems, batteries, and longer gearbox ratios. This is particularly true with the 420HP Lexus IS-F, a car that we will focus on in a near future.

On a side note it is important to say that all these records were made in conditions that were difficult to predict and may vary from one car to another... weather, track conditions, driver skill, and physical state of the cars inevitably influence the performance and lap time of each vehicle.

The latest news from Tsukuba saw the Amuse R35 GTR win a new record with a time of 59.061, beating the Mine's version. When specialists find a way of cracking into Nissan's super protective engine management system to add a whole lot of horsepower, and combine it to a stripped up interior, we might see the HKS Lancer Evo record of a 53.589 fall.

The best overall record belongs to Keichi Tsuchiya in a purpose built race car, a 2002 Super GT Honda NSX in 51.875.








Source
NihonCar

Mitsubishi's New Blu-ray Recorder

Mitsubishi Electric just released two New Blu-Ray recorders, the DVR-BZ200 with 500GB of internal HDD and the DVR-BZ100 with 250GB of internal HDD. Both support, obviously, AVC codec, but also AVCREC which allows you to record AVC to DVD (cheaper than Blu-Ray discs). We also have digital and analog TV tuners as well as HDMI and Tivo Like (automatically removes commercials) support …

The most interesting thing by far is touch-screen color LCD remote control... SWEET !

Source
Akihabaranews

Sunday Stories: Lancer Evo X and Galant Fortis

The Galant Fortis and Lancer Evolution X in Japan

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has announced the names of two new models. The U.S.-market Lancer will be renamed "GALANT FORTIS" for the Japan domestic market. Also, Mitsubishi's rally-inspired, high-performance 4WD sedan will carry the name "LANCER EVOLUTION X".

The development concept for the new Galant Fortis1 calls for a "new-generation global sedan with world-class levels of safety, environmental performance and comfort". Distinguishing features include: a high-rigidity platform that delivers excellent crashworthiness; a new 2-liter engine with aluminum cylinder block that delivers high power output and returns excellent fuel efficiency; exterior styling that imparts a broad stance and sporty lines; and a spacious, well-appointed cabin.

The development concept for the all-new Lancer Evolution X2 specifies a "new-generation high-performance 4WD global sedan that allows all levels of driver to enjoy the car's speed and handling with ease and in safety". The new model features Mitsubishi's S-AWC3 traction and handling system, that integrates the control of drive torque and braking management with the four-wheel drive system to help realize highly responsive and intuitive handling in addition to outstanding vehicle attitude stability. Other examples of Mitsubishi Motors' latest automotive technology to be featured in the new model include a new lightweight and high-performance 2.0-liter turbocharged MIVEC4 engine with aluminum cylinder block and a 6-speed automated manual transmission that contributes to exceptional performance with improved fuel economy. The performance-driven design makes the car's extreme potential clear, while cockpit design focuses the driver's attention on operating his machine.

1 Latin for strong, steadfast, courageous.
2 "X" ("Ten") stands for the tenth iteration of the Lancer Evolution released on the Japan domestic market. (In other markets the car will be called "LANCER EVOLUTION".)
3 Super All Wheel Control
4 Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing and lift Electronic Control System: Mitsubishi Motors variable valve system















Source
NihonCar