Mitsubishi Races Into The Big Apple With Exciting New 2006 Lancer Evolution IX

March 24, 2005 -- NEW YORK -- Fueling a legacy of heart-pounding excitement and success on the world rally racing circuit, Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) will introduce the new 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX at the New York International Automobile Show. This latest edition to the Lancer Evolution vehicle line, known for its rally-racing design and segment-leading performance, is sure to raise the adrenaline of driving enthusiasts looking to move ahead of the crowd at every turn.

Riding alongside the new Lancer Evolution IX in The Big Apple are the recently unveiled fourth-generation 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse and all-new Mitsubishi Raider midsize truck, both packed with plenty of power and urban sophistication. Enthusiasts will be further enthralled at the Mitsubishi stand by Ralliart concept vehicles based on the popular Galant sedan and Endeavor SUV, tuned to evoke racing attitude. The Mitsubishi 2005 full line of products will be on display, as well.

"The Lancer Evolution IX exemplifies the core DNA of the Mitsubishi Motors brand, with unrivaled performance, '' said Rich Gilligan, president and CEO of Mitsubishi Motors North America. "Evo IX's soul transcends our entire vehicle lineup to create the best product portfolio in Mitsubishi's history."

2006 LANCER EVOLUTION IX

Significant enhancements to the latest edition of the Lancer Evolution offer ever more reasons to join the exclusive "Evo club." The 2-liter DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder intercooled turbo 4G63 engine now features Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing and lift Electronic Control (MIVEC), specifically designed for this high-powered engine, as standard equipment. This technological advancement enables the Lancer Evolution IX to produce higher maximum power and increased usable torque. New gear ratios on the standard five-speed manual take full advantage of the torque to improve Lancer Evolution's already-blistering acceleration.

In addition, exterior upgrades on the Lancer Evolution IX include a new front fascia and grille, new smoked front and rear lamp bezels, and redesigned 17-inch Enkei wheels. Interior enhancements include Alcantara(R) material and leather bolsters on the Recaro(R) front seats, high-back rear seats, aluminum pedals, and interior trim upgrades. The Lancer Evolution IX is available in three trim levels.

2006 ECLIPSE

The 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse easily lives up to its nameplate's legacy in the import sport coupe segment, with a futuristic, organic design and greatly enhanced powerplant. It features a muscular look with a clean tight skin, giving the Eclipse a distinctively aggressive, athletic edge. An arched roofline and flexed surfaces exude attitude and energy that beg someone to drive the vehicle. The Eclipse GT is powered by the most potent V6 engine in its class, and both the Eclipse GS and GT models feature MIVEC engine technology. The result is strong off-the-line acceleration and passing power, building driver confidence and boosting the fun-to-drive quotient. Such pure energy is complemented by superb handling and smooth-ride characteristics that are sure to appeal to those seeking an open road.

The futuristic interior of the new Eclipse features high-back sports seats with aggressive bolsters and integrated headrests that position the driver in front of a four-spoke steering wheel and stylized instrument panel akin to a floating wave. Its soft-touch feel gives the instrument panel an even more upscale appearance. Motorcycle-inspired gauges provide an even more aggressive edge. An available Rockford Fosgate audio system with 650 watts peak power heightens the driving enjoyment. The new Eclipse will be available mid-year, along with the new Eclipse Spyder convertible later in 2006.

2006 RAIDER

Mitsubishi's vision of what a light truck can be is embodied in the Raider, which redefines the traditional midsize import pickup in terms of styling, content and quality. Aggressive design cues and unexpected interior amenities clearly position the Raider to appeal to a new generation of truck buyers with upscale tastes and urban style. Power and toughness, however, are not compromised. The Raider, based on the 2005 Dodge Dakota platform, revives the Mitsubishi legacy of standout truck performance as the only import pickup truck in its class to offer a 4.7L V8 engine; a V6 is standard.

The Raider's dynamic look with an urban edge is highlighted by a sporty "one line" flush profile and curved full surfaces complemented by a distinctive hood, flared wheel arches and step-side style fenders that give the Raider a toned muscular physique. A thin upper grille and thick lower bumper provide it with an aggressive demeanor reminiscent of other Mitsubishi models. The Raider lacks few interior amenities, distinguishing it from other, more conventional midsize trucks.

Premium options tailored to the Raider's new generation target driver include leather seating surfaces, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, Bluetooth interface and a premium sound system with six-disc CD changer and MP3 player - sure to please even the most discernable driver. The Raider arrives in showrooms this fall.

GALANT AND ENDEAVOR RALLIART CONCEPTS

The sporty, racing heritage of the Mitsubishi brand is showcased in the Ralliart motorsports arm of Mitsubishi Motors Corporation. On display in New York are special Ralliart concepts of the popular Mitsubishi Galant sedan and Endeavor sport utility vehicle. Worldwide, Ralliart-badged vehicles feature enhanced performance and handling, specialty equipment and sporty styling elements.

The Mitsubishi Galant Ralliart concept embodies the definition of a Ralliart model. It features the same powerful 3.8-liter MIVEC high-output engine that will be available on the 2006 Eclipse, as well as the coupe's six-speed manual transmission. The Gallant concept vehicle sits on 19x8.5 Racing Hart F10 wheels and 245/40/19 Goodyear Eagle F1 GS-D3 tires. Other features include Ralliart exhaust, a custom cold air intake system and coilover springs suspension from Road Race Engineering. A rear stabilizer bar, front and rear strut braces, and Brembo's four-piston brake kit (front) and custom cross-drilled rotors (back) complete the mechanical modifications. Exterior highlights include PIAA driving lamps, show car-quality paint, a metal mesh grille with Ralliart logo, custom-integrated rear spoiler, front and rear fascia and side skirt. The Galant Ralliart concept also features a custom interior, including coordinated carpeting and leather.

Mitsubishi Motors gave a similar Ralliart treatment to the Endeavor. The new 3.8-liter MIVEC high-output engine provides 263 horsepower, and the popular midsize sport utility vehicle rides on 20x8.5 Enkei LM1/5S wheels and 275/40/20 Falcon tires with a SuperAutobacs grounding kit. A five-speed automatic transmission, modified exhaust system and Road Race Engineering customer cold air intake and coilover suspension enhance performance, as do Brembo four-piston brakes (front) and custom cross-drilled rotors (rear).

The Endeavor Ralliart concept vehicle stands out visually by incorporating PIAA driving lamps with factory-tinted headlamps, show car-quality paint, a metal mesh grille with Ralliart logo and custom front and rear fascias and side skirt. Inside the vehicle is coordinated carpeting and leather. Knowing performance enthusiasts demand the latest in technology, the vehicle is equipped with a Pioneer AVIC-80DVD navigation system and an Eclipse stereo system with speakers installed by SuperAutobacs. For pure fun and entertainment, the Endeavor Ralliart concept features a Sony Playstation 2 system running on a 30-inch Mitsubishi LCD monitor.

2005 FULL LINE

Lancer

Backed by a 30-year world rally racing history, the Lancer has surprising power for an entry-level sedan. Loaded with features, the Lancer proves that it's possible to integrate big-car practicality and a spacious, well-appointed interior in a sensible, affordable, and driver-engaging compact sedan.

Featuring one of the largest base engines in its class -- the proven 2.0-liter, SOHC, 16-valve, four-cylinder unit -- the Lancer offers plenty of bang for the buck. And for even higher levels of spirited performance, the Lancer Ralliart is powered by a gutsy 2.4-liter, SOHC, 16-valve four-cylinder MIVEC engine that develops up to 162 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque.

A well-equipped compact sedan, the Lancer boasts an impressive list of standard features including power door locks, windows and side-view mirrors; air conditioning; woodgrain interior trim accents; AM/FM/CD stereo player with four speakers; eight-way adjustable driver's seat with height and headrest adjustments; dual visor vanity mirrors and an electric rear window defroster.

Lancer Evolution

For 2005, the Evolution features the introduction of the MR Edition, an iteration that enhances the ride and handling of an already capable machine. In addition to the new electronically actuated Active Center Differential (ACD) and helical-type front limited slip differential - both of which are now shared with all other Lancer Evolutions - the MR Edition includes a six-speed manual transmission, monotube Bilstein(R) dampers and forged aluminum BBS(R) wheels. An aluminum roof - shared with the 2005 RS - also helps to lower the center of gravity. The Lancer Evolution is not a car for everybody but simply a car for everybody who loves to drive.

Galant

Fresh from a total redesign for the 2004 model year, the best-ever Galant adds subtle improvements in 2005. New front seat-mounted side impact airbags, now standard across the line, are designed to protect both the thorax and head in the event of a collision. For extra comfort, a power driver's seat with lumbar adjustor is now standard equipment on the LS. The Galant was one of the most improved vehicles of 2004, reincarnated as bigger, better, and more powerful sedan. Smart styling, crisp handling, a larger interior and impressive engine performance give the Galant a sports sedan's soul in a family sedan's body.

Part of the sports sedan soul is communicated by a passionate exterior design, and the Galant is meant to appeal to the style conscious. The Galant features a sculpted, split front-grille design, an aggressive wedge-shaped silhouette and stylish rear combination lamps. The interior incorporates a revamped high-luminance instrument cluster and a clean, uncluttered audio panel layout that is both intuitive and attractive. Available titanium-look finishes on the interior surfaces help complete the design.

Available in four levels of trim and two engine choices, the Galant appeals to a wide audience. The 2005 Galant is powered by a responsive 160-horsepower, 2.4-liter, SOHC, 16-valve, four-cylinder MIVEC engine, or the 230-horsepower 3.8-liter, SOHC, 24-valve V6, with 250 pound-feet of torque. Both engines are designed to deliver low-end power for swift acceleration and real world, stoplight savvy utility.

Targeting driving enthusiasts, Mitsubishi also is producing a limited number of 2005 Galant SE models. This model, featuring the 2.4-liter engine, features several styling cues from the Galant GTS, including darkened head and tail lamps, plus fog lamps; an integrated rear spoiler, chrome exhaust tip, body-colored mirrors and door handles and limited-edition machine-finished 16-inch wheels. Interior upgrades on the Galant SE include black leather seating surfaces, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with remote audio controls, AM/FM/CD player with MP3 playback, aluminum accelerator and brake pedals and metallic tones and accents on trim pieces.

Eclipse

Head-turning styling combined with sports car performance has made the Eclipse one of the best-selling import sports coupes over the past decade. The 2005 model continues with three trim levels (GS, GT, and GTS), including engines that range from a rugged 2.4-liter, SOHC, 16-valve, 147-horsepower four-cylinder; a smooth-revving 3.0-liter V6 with 200-horsepower; or a 210 horsepower, 3.0-liter V6 with variable-length induction. These rugged engines are designed to provide maximum performance across the rpm range - without compromising every day drivability or long-term reliability.

Features such as air conditioning, height-adjustable steering column, eight-way adjustable driver's seat, fold-down rear seatback, power windows, door locks and door mirrors, two 12-volt accessory outlets, alloy wheels and a 140-watt AM/FM/CD stereo are standard equipment on the Eclipse.

Eclipse Spyder

With the feel of a grand touring sport convertible and the look of a space-age rocket, the Eclipse Spyder is a performance-engineered, fun-in-the-sun vehicle at a great value.

The 2005 Eclipse Spyder is available in three trim levels and two engine choices. The GS has a 2.4-liter, SOHC, 16-valve four-cylinder engine that generates 147 horsepower at 5500 rpm. The GT and GTS trim lines upgrade to a larger 3.0-liter, SOHC, 24-valve V6 with variable-length intake tuning that produces an impressive 210 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 205 pound-feet of torque at 4250 rpm.

No detail on Eclipse Spyder has been overlooked, including the high quality construction of its convertible top, which is assembled individually to ensure precise fit, durability and function. The Spyder's power-operated top features a high-quality, three-layer fabric with a separate polyester/cotton interior headliner, twin electric motors and a heated glass rear window. The engineering involved in the design of the retracting top helps make Eclipse Spyder a true all-season convertible.

Outlander

The versatile 2005 Outlander gives Mitsubishi a strong presence in the entry-level SUV category. Utilizing the compact Lancer platform, the Outlander combines utility, stylish sheet metal and nimble, car-like manners in an attractive, affordable, go-anywhere alternative to the five-passenger sedan. Visually, the Outlander stakes a claim as a rugged yet sophisticated SUV. Dynamically, however, the Outlander feels more like a car, with nimble handling, a low center of gravity and better fuel economy than most SUVs.

Available in either front-wheel or all-wheel-drive configurations, all Outlanders are motivated by a powerful 2.4-liter MIVEC four-cylinder engine that develops 160 horsepower and

162 pound-feet of torque. This smooth-revving, four-cylinder engine is mated to Mitsubishi's patented Sportronic(TM) transmission, which provides manually actuated, clutchless shifting.

The 2005 Outlander's exterior is highlighted by new projector beam headlamp clusters and a rear disc brake arrangement. The base Outlander LS model is available with either four-speed manual or five-speed manual transmission. The XLS trim level sports a sleek smaller rear spoiler, new 17-inch alloy wheels, two-tone fender flares and unique side air dams. A new top-of-the-line Limited model, in monochromatic colors, adds an upgraded audio system with 6-disc CD changer and MP3 playback. Updated topstitched leather seating surfaces with front seat mounted side impact air bags are standard equipment on the Limited.

The Outlander's interior offers the flexibility of folding rear seats and a choice of premium cloth or leather seating surfaces, depending upon selected trim level. The analog clock, sporty gauge panel, and easily accessible audio and climate controls help cast the Outlander as a sensible, user-friendly crossover SUV.

Endeavor

For people who require a little more of everything - whether that entails more features, more power, or just more room - Mitsubishi's SUV lineup includes the Endeavor, a vehicle that brings style and sportiness to the midsize segment. The Endeavor is the perfect option for drivers whose needs have outgrown sedans and coupes, and are looking for an adaptable vehicle that handles daily driving or extended road trips with ease.

The Endeavor is powered by a lively 3.8-liter, 60-degree V6 engine that is designed to produce the majority of its torque at lower rpm. The Endeavor's drivetrain is available as either a front-wheel-drive or full-time all-wheel-drive SUV for improved wet weather handling and light-duty off-road capability. All Endeavors come equipped with a four-speed automatic transmission with Sportronic(TM) mode that allows drivers to manually engage their desired gear.

The 2005 Mitsubishi Endeavor is available in any of six configurations; each of the three trim levels (LS, XLS and Limited) is available in either front-wheel or full-time all-wheel-drive versions. The three trim levels cover a wide range of standard features and also offer the most popular optional equipment combinations, such as Infinity audio with compact disc changer and rear seat entertainment.

Montero

By combining Dakar rally-conquering DNA with distinguished styling and an impressive list of luxury amenities - Including an optional rear DVD entertainment system - the Montero is at home on any type of pavement (or lack thereof). The Montero tames the most rugged terrain with a powerful 3.8-liter, SOHC, 24-valve V6 engine. The majority of the engine's torque is available early in the power band and peaks early to produce a responsive off-the-line feel with strong pulling power. In 2005, updates include new colors and 17" wheels.

The internationally proven ActiveTrac(TM) 4WD system is standard on the Montero. ActiveTrac(TM) gives drivers the choice of rear-drive, full-time all-wheel drive (AWD), and high- or low-range 4WD with a locked center differential. Transmitting the power to that differential is a five-speed Sportronic(TM) sequential shift transmission designed to enhance on- and off-road driving capability. The Mitsubishi Active Skid and Traction Control system (M-ASTC) helps control wheel slippage on uneven terrain, dramatically improving the Montero's off-road capability.

MANUFACTURING AND WARRANTY

As part of Mitsubishi Motors "Best Backed Car" program, all 2005 Mitsubishi models are covered by a five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper new vehicle limited warranty, a 10 -year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, and seven-year/100,000-mile anti-corrosion/perforation limited warranty. In addition, Mitsubishi provides 24-hour roadside assistance and free towing on all warranty-related repairs during the first five years/unlimited miles.

2006 EVO IX Specs and Equipment