Lancer Evolution FQ-400: 403bhp from just 2.0-liters

As the performance flagship of Mitsubishi’s rally inspired Lancer Evolution X series, the FQ-400 packs a serious punch. The lightweight aluminum 2.0-liter turbocharged MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) petrol engine delivers 403bhp at 6,500rpm with a peak torque of 525Nm at 3,500rpm and as the quickest road-going Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X to date, the FQ-400 is capable of reaching 62mph from standstill in an estimated 3.8 seconds before reaching an electronically limited 155mph.

Super-All Wheel Control

Mitsubishi’s Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) four-wheel-drive system delivers the power to the wheels to provide cornering ability, traction and grip. The S-AWC combines Active Stability Control, an Active Centre Differential, Active Yaw Control and Sport ABS. Three settings - Tarmac, Gravel and Snow – can be set by the driver to suit prevailing conditions and are offered via the wheel-mounted button and displayed in the central instrument binnacle.

A wider track and lowered suspension featuring Eibach springs and Bilstein Shock Absorbers helps to further improve cornering ability in the FQ-400 over previous models. Lightweight 18-inch, nine spoke alloy wheels fitted with Toyo Proxes R1R tires are provided to enhance grip. A revised braking system using aerospace grade aluminum alloys and floating sealed discs with high performance pads brings the FQ-400 to a rapid halt.

Power Boost

The increased power output was achieved in part by fitting high-flow fuel injectors to the aluminum cylinder head as well as a new hybrid turbocharger. The turbocharger features low-friction bearings, a high temperature turbine and strengthened thrust bearing to increase response and reduce turbo lag. An enhanced intercooler feeds the turbocharger cooled air, to improve its efficiency and the exhaust’s gasses flow from the engine via a 3-inch diameter high flow stainless steel pipe and catalytic converter before exiting through a centrally positioned exhaust.

Unmistakable styling

The FQ-400 builds on the already aggressive style of its Lancer Evolution relatives. It features a heavily vented bonnet to help heat escape and a new lightweight composite front bumper incorporating Mitsubishi’s trademark ‘Jet Fighter’ grille. Additional lighting and High Intensity Discharge (HID) lights and a 30mm drop in front ride height enhabce the aggressive look. Composite side skirts, a re-styled rear bumper with a carbon fiber diffuser, a rear wing incorporating a gurney strip and a roof-mounted ‘Vortex Generator’ are designed to mange airflow and cooling. Recaro bucket sports seats, an FQ-400 liveried handbrake handle and carbon fiber gear knob add to the sporty feel.

Safety and infotainment

With a five-star score in Euro NCAP’s independent crash tests, seven airbags, seat belt pretensioners and ISO Fix child seating all included in its standard specification, the FQ-400 is billed as the safest Lancer Evolution to date.

Additionally featured as standard are Bluetooth hands-free telephone connection, a CD-tuner with 30GB hard drive, DVD satellite navigation, privacy glass, remote central locking and automatic headlamps and windscreen wipers.

The FQ-400 has just been let loose in the UK market at a list price of £49,999 and will be available from June 2009.

David Greig