2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
The all-new 2011 model year Mitsubishi Outlander Sport models will be offered in two trims for the U.S. market: the 2WD ES that features a plentiful standard equipment package as well as a choice of either the manual or CVT transmissions and the more upscale, technology equipped SE edition that is available with either 2WD or 4WD and includes the continuously variable gearbox.
In the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, this improved version of the 4B11 produces a full 148 hp @ 6000 rpm and 143 lb.-ft. of torque at a lower 4200 rpm from its 2.0-liter inline-4 configuration. What’s more, the majority of the engine’s torque is produced across a wide powerband of around 2200 rpm all the way up to just below its redline at 6500 rpm.
Available on the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport ES and standard equipment on the SE model, the Sportronic ® Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) features design updates that not only help to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions over previous iterations of this innovative Mitsubishi transmission technology but also improve driver feel when manually shifting via the magnesium paddle shifters mounted behind the steering wheel.
With an overall length of 169.1 in. versus the Outlander’s 183.7 in., the all-new Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is more than a foot shorter than its larger brethren while much closer in width (69.7 in. vs. 70.9 in.) and height (64.2 in. vs. 66.1 in.), respectively, while sharing an identical wheelbase of 105.1 in. A 2WD Mitsubishi Outlander Sport ES with CVT tips the scales with a curb weight of 3098 lb. – little more than 100 lb. heavier than the CVT-equipped Lancer GTS sedan.
Both the Outlander and Outlander Sport share the same suspension setup – a MacPherson strut layout in front with a trailing multi-link at the rear – but the new Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has received some revisions to its design that provide a more optimal degree of ride comfort and stability that better suit the Sport’s more compact dimensions.
The body of the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is completely unique from the Outlander save for the side mirrors – the only parts carried over to the new crossover.
2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR
Two versions of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution will be offered in the U.S. market for the 2011 model year: the GSR model that features a short-throw 5-speed manual transmission along with a long list of standard features as well as numerous advanced electronic driver aids including the advanced Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) full-time all-wheel drive system and an even better equipped MR edition that includes Mitsubishi’s remarkable 6-speed Twin Clutch Sportronic-Shift Transmission (TC-SST).
All Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution GSR models now include a large rear spoiler at no additional cost to the consumer, with the MR version receiving a stylish low-key rear lip spoiler.
The well-engineered 4B11 T/C engine is at the heart of every Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution’s fast-paced athleticism – it can get the pulse racing of even the most jaded automotive enthusiast with its ultra-quick acceleration and loads of instantaneous power on tap at seemingly any point of the tachometer’s rev range.
Though only 2.0-liters (1,997 cc) in displacement, this hearty DOHC 16-valve inline-4 powerplant consists of an all-aluminum engine block and cylinder head (for high-strength and light weight) and a bore and stroke that both measure exactly 86.0 mm (3.4 in.), making it a “square” design as its bore-stroke ratio is 1.0. Power ratings for this engine are 291 horsepower at 6,500 rpm with a full 300 lb.-ft. of torque produced at a much lower 4,000 rpm. Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control system (MIVEC) works on both the intake and exhaust camshafts for optimized power production and cleaner exhaust emissions. This turbocharged/intercooled engine’s compression ratio is 9.0:1.
Mitsubishi’s revolutionary Twin Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST) is nothing short of an engineering marvel. The TC-SST allows the driver to perform shifts in a fraction of the time that they could be performed with a standard manual transmission. The system also allows the driver to make these shifts via the console-mounted shift lever or even more conveniently by magnesium steering wheel paddle shifters. What’s more, this close-ratio 6-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission can operate in a fully automated mode, just like the typical automatic transmission.
Mitsubishi’s Lancer Evolution has always been known for its exceptional handling prowess. But the advanced electronic driver aids on the current generation vehicle – especially the company’s superb Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system – have taken the Evolution’s road hugging maneuverability to an astonishingly high level.
Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) is not one specific device but a network of technologically-advanced dynamic systems that constantly communicate with each other to provide optimized tractability. These include Active Stability Control (ASC), an Active Center Differential (ACD), an Active Yaw Control (AYC) rear differential, and Sport ABS brakes. Working in concert, Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) modulates torque delivery to each wheel in real-time for maximum control.
The Active Stability Control (ASC) includes the vehicle’s traction control and stability control systems and helps to regulate brake force and engine power distribution at each individual wheel.
The Active Center Differential (ACD) uses an electronically-controlled hydraulic multi-plate clutch to split engine torque (up to 50:50) between the front and rear wheels. This routing of engine power between the front and rear of the vehicle is determined by data collected from a variety of sensors including individual wheel speeds, throttle opening, steering wheel angle, and the vehicle’s lateral and longitudinal positioning.
Acting in a similar fashion to a conventional limited-slip differential, the Active Yaw Control (AYC) rear differential utilizes a planetary gear differential, yaw rate sensor and brake force control via the Active Stability Control (ASC) system to control rear wheel torque for improved traction and stability in slippery road conditions and high-speed cornering.
And thanks to advanced brake pressure and yaw rate sensors, the Sport Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) helps the driver to maintain better steering control on slippery surfaces or under very heavy braking.
2011 Mercedes-Benz Viano
The Mercedes-Benz Viano is now optionally available with a combination of Bi-xenon headlamps, LED daytime driving lights, cornering lights, Add-Light system and a headlamp washer system. The cornering light is controlled via the indicator lever and is effective up to a speed of 40 km/h. The Add-Light system is active at speeds of up to 70 km/h, depending on the steering angle. The particularly extensive Viano Ambiente equipment line includes the Bi-xenon headlamps as standard.
The Mercedes-Benz Viano’s bumper also comes in a new, upgraded design featuring a honeycomb look. The smooth and ungrained surface is painted in the vehicle’s exterior colour on all Viano model variants. The same applies to the three-piece rear bumper, which now extends lower to emphasize the Viano’s dynamism.
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2010 Suzuki Kizashi Sedan
The Kizashi sport sedan, which originates from the Concept Kizashi series introduced over the last two years, follows a similar design theme and appreciation for performance previously illustrated by the three eye-catching and immaculately designed concept vehicles. The production Kizashi redefines the traditional performance sedan and moves the Suzuki brand upscale. Furthermore, its active and energetic identity, a core component of the Suzuki brand DNA, is tempered by the vehicle’s overall mission to provide a strong, refined urban performance.
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2009 Mitsubishi Outlander GT Concept – Prototype
The Mitsubishi Outlander GT Prototype showcases a host of new technologies, such as Idle Neutral Logic that automatically shifts the transmission into neutral during vehicle standstill, improved performance and fuel economy from its more powerful 3.0-liter SOHC MIVEC V6 engine, and a Super-All-Wheel-Control System offering superior handling and control. Additionally, there is a number of exciting design elements that help distinguish the Mitsubishi Outlander GT Concept, including Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution’s signature “Jet Fighter” grille.