The 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart carved a unique niche in the performance sedan market, largely thanks to its distinctive engine. Based on the formidable 4B11 T/C turbocharged and intercooled engine that debuted in the Lancer Evolution, the Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart variant was meticulously adapted for potent, street-oriented performance. While sharing its core with the legendary Evolution, the Ralliart engine boasts specific modifications to the turbocharger, intercooler, and valve timing, all calibrated to deliver an exhilarating yet accessible driving experience for everyday use.
At its heart, the Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart engine generates an impressive 237 horsepower at 6,000 RPM, a slight step down from the Evolution’s 291 hp at 6,500 RPM. However, the torque figures tell a compelling story for real-world driving. The Ralliart churns out a robust 253 lb.-ft. of peak torque at a lower 3,000 RPM compared to the Evolution’s 300 lb.-ft. at 4,400 RPM. This deliberate tuning results in a broader torque curve, with nearly 250 lb.-ft. readily available from 2,500 RPM to approximately 4,700 RPM. This “sweet spot” in the power band is what defines the Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart engine’s character, providing responsive and enjoyable performance in typical driving scenarios.
Dan Kuhnert, former executive vice president of sales and marketing at Mitsubishi Motors North America, aptly highlighted this distinction: “The Lancer Ralliart engine is not simply a lower-horsepower Evolution engine. We specifically tuned the Ralliart engine to provide strong low-end and mid-range torque to make the car’s performance more accessible and enjoyable in everyday driving situations. With Lancer Evolution, engine tuning has to take into account the many owners that use the car for ultra-performance driving.” This philosophy underscores the Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart‘s focus on delivering thrilling yet manageable power for daily commutes and weekend jaunts.
Further differentiating it from its higher-strung sibling, the Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart engine’s redline is set at 6,500 RPM, slightly lower than the Evolution’s 7,000 RPM. Mirroring the entire Lancer engine family, the Ralliart incorporates Mitsubishi’s Innovative Valve-timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) system. This sophisticated technology governs valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts, optimizing engine performance across the entire RPM spectrum.
High-Strength Aluminum Construction: The Foundation of the 4B11 T/C
The 4B11 T/C engine powering the Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart is a 2.0-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder masterpiece, featuring intercooling and turbocharging. Its construction emphasizes both strength and weight efficiency, utilizing a cast-aluminum cylinder block and cylinder head. While rooted in the architecture of the naturally aspirated 4B11 engine, the turbocharged variant incorporates significant reinforcements. The 4B11 T/C begins with a unique semi-closed deck block casting, fortified to withstand the pressures of turbocharging. Internally, components are similarly strengthened to endure high boost levels. An integrated die-cast ladder frame enhances engine block rigidity and plays a crucial role in minimizing noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). This inherent stiffness negates the need for a balancer shaft, contributing to the engine’s smooth operation.
Within the robust block, the 4B11 T/C features a cross-drilled forged steel crankshaft, rotating within 4-bolt main bearing caps. Reinforced forged steel connecting rods, specifically designed for this application, link the crankshaft to unique gravity-cast pistons crafted from high-strength aluminum. These pistons prioritize durability and quiet operation and incorporate a specialized ring package optimized for the engine’s turbocharged characteristics.
The engine’s dimensions are perfectly square, with both bore and stroke measuring 86.0 mm (3.4 inches), resulting in a bore-stroke ratio of 1.0. Fully floating pistons enhance reliability while minimizing frictional losses. The compression ratio mirrors the Lancer Evolution at 9:1.
Turbocharging and Intake: Tailored for Ralliart Response
A key distinction lies in the turbocharger selection. The Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart engine employs a smaller, single-scroll turbocharger, in contrast to the twin-scroll unit found in the Lancer Evolution. This choice contributes to the Ralliart’s enhanced low-end and mid-range torque delivery. The intake tract and airbox are also unique to the Ralliart, and the intercooler setup and plumbing exhibit slight variations from the Evolution, reflecting the engine’s specific performance tuning.
Employing a timing chain instead of a belt contributes to a more compact engine design and enhances long-term reliability. Iridium spark plugs further reduce emissions and extend service intervals. The Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart requires premium-grade (91 AKI) fuel and meets the LEV II / Tier 2, Bin 5 emissions standard. Aluminum is also utilized for the timing chain case and cylinder head cover, the latter being resin in the naturally aspirated 4B11 engines found in other Lancer models.
Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing and lift Electronic Control (MIVEC) in Detail
The double overhead-cam (DOHC) 16-valve cylinder head, constructed from aluminum, houses built-up (hollow) camshafts and a direct-acting valvetrain. This design minimizes weight and creates a more compact layout compared to rocker arm assemblies. Reduced weight at the top of the engine also contributes to a lower center of gravity, improving handling dynamics.
The Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) system, a continuously variable valve timing system, operates on both intake and exhaust valves. This sophisticated system optimizes power output, fuel efficiency, and emissions across the engine’s entire operating range by dynamically adjusting valve timing based on driving conditions.
The MIVEC system in the Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart engine’s 4B11 T/C independently controls intake and exhaust cam timing to deliver four optimized engine-operating modes:
- Fuel Efficiency Mode: Under typical driving conditions, valve overlap is increased to minimize pumping losses and enhance fuel economy. Exhaust valve opening timing is retarded, increasing the expansion ratio and further improving fuel efficiency.
- Maximum Power Mode: When maximum power is demanded at high engine speeds and loads, intake valve closing timing is retarded to synchronize intake air pulsations, maximizing air volume and power output.
- Torque Delivery Mode: Under low-speed, high-load conditions, MIVEC optimizes torque delivery by advancing intake valve closing timing to ensure sufficient air volume. Simultaneously, exhaust valve opening timing is retarded to increase the expansion ratio and improve efficiency.
- Idle Stability Mode: At idle, valve overlap is eliminated to stabilize combustion and ensure smooth idling.
Exhaust System: Performance and Sound
The Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart shares a largely identical free-flowing exhaust system with the Lancer Evolution, emphasizing performance and a sporty exhaust note. The Ralliart features a slightly wider-bore center pipe (65 mm) compared to the Evolution’s 60.5 mm. In both models, a large muffler, coupled with a twin-pipe outlet featuring elliptical tips, produces a deep, powerful, and distinctive exhaust sound.
Lancer Ralliart Engine Technology Overview and Benefits
| Technology | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Performance and FuelConsumption | |
| Diecast aluminum cylinder block | x |
| 4-bolt main bearing caps | x |
| Semi-closed deck block | x |
| Direct-acting DOHC valvetrain | x |
| Timing chain (vs. belt) | x |
| Serpentine belt accessory drive | x |
| Isometric short port aluminum intake manifold | x |
| Exhaust manifold at rear of engine | x |
| 5W-30 engine oil | x |
| Compact, large-volume atomizing fuel injectors | x |
| No balancer shaft | x |
| Water pump with rubber impeller integrated with shroud | x |
| Iridium spark plugs | x |
| Long-reach M12 spark plugs | x |
| Electronically controlled throttle | x |
Lancer Ralliart Warranty: Peace of Mind
The Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart was backed by a comprehensive warranty package, reflecting Mitsubishi’s confidence in its reliability. It included a bumper-to-bumper New Vehicle Limited Warranty for 36 months or 36,000 miles (whichever came first). The restraint system and powertrain, including the sophisticated engine, were covered by a 5-year or 60,000 miles Powertrain Limited Warranty. Additionally, an Anti-Corrosion Perforation Limited Warranty extended for 7-years or 100,000 miles, and a generous 5-year, unlimited-miles timeframe for roadside assistance provided added security. All warranties were transferable to subsequent owners, with coverage commencing on the original in-service date, ensuring lasting peace of mind.
In conclusion, the Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart engine stands as a testament to intelligent performance tuning. By adapting the potent foundation of the Lancer Evolution’s 4B11 T/C, Mitsubishi created a turbocharged engine that delivers exhilarating power in a more accessible and everyday-friendly package. Its focus on low-end and mid-range torque, coupled with robust construction and advanced technologies like MIVEC, makes the Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking a balanced blend of performance and practicality.
