Mitsubishi Outlander: Rigidity Throughout
The lower body structure, where the suspension attaches to the car, also demonstrates the benefits of higher rigidity than before. Here, one can appreciate the holistic approach engineers used to achieve this goal. As one example, the Lancer's new-generation 2.0-liter DOHC MIVEC 4-cylinder engine uses a rear-mounted exhaust manifold, as opposed to the front-mounted exhaust manifold on the previous-generation Lancer engine.
That change allowed use of a flat front suspension crossmember, where the previous model required a saddle-shaped crossmember to provide clearance for the exhaust pipe. A flat front crossmember can directly receive lateral loads from the front lower arm.
Strut tower, side and lower braces enhance lateral rigidity for precise steering response, and lower control arm attachment points and steering knuckles have been strengthened. The combination of these enhancements, along with retuned lower control arm bushings, contribute to quicker steering response. As a result of these reinforcement measures, rigidity of the tire ground contact area was improved by a significant 18 percent versus the previous Lancer, an improvement that enhances nimble handling, driving stability and ride comfort.
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Redesigned Front Suspension
The MacPherson strut front suspension is similar in layout to the previous
Lancer's, but all-new, with a sharpened focus on enhancing rigidity while
reducing weight and lowering the roll center. S
Multi-link Rear Suspension
The Lancer's sophisticated new trailing-arm type multi-link rear suspension
is a major factor in providing ride and handling characteristics that might be
expected from a more expensive vehicle. T
More Precise Steering
The 2008 Lancer owes its crisp, fluid steering response to the integration of
the highly rigid body structure, the newly designed suspension, and of course
the new rack and pinion steering system
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ACC power auto-cutout function
After about 30 minutes has elapsed with the ignition switch in the “ACC” position,
the function automatically cuts out the power for the audio system and other electric
devices that can be operated with that position.
When the ignition switch is turned from the “ACC” position, the power
The Inside
The crossover's uncluttered dashboard sweeps across the front of the cabin,
broken up only by the instrument hood. The dash panels are made of hard plastic,
but they have nice graining and don't look the least bit cheap, and everything
fits together well. Three large knobs below the audio syst
