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Rally for the Road: The Tech Behind the New Lancer Evolution

The long awaited next-generation Lancer Evolution X is just around the corner,and bit by bit Mitsubishi has been filling in the details. After two concepts, we now have a clear idea of what the car will look like and we've got a general idea of how it will perform, and what it will cost. However, with the pending release of its arch nemesis, the new Subaru Impreza WRX STi, Mitsubishi decided to keep a few trick cards up its sleeve regarding the drivetrain technology of its masterpiece. Now it's time for them to be revealed.

Where some brands might boast all-wheel drive, the new Lancer Evolution features Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC). S-AWC isn't a particular type of system like Haldex or Super Handling AWD, but rather a

The Evo is coming, the Evo is coming! (Photo: Mitsubishi)

series of highly complex components that are intertwined, coming together to create one of the most impressive man/machine interactions to date. Consisting of AYC (Active Yaw Control), ACD (Active Center Differential), ASC (Active Stability Control) and Sport ABS, S-AWC provides what is expected to be unparalleled performance and stability, capable of taking theLancer to the next level amongst performance cars by giving it the ability to better mirror the driver's intent.

Compared to the previous Lancer Evolution, the new S-AWC-equipped

AYC is an integral part of the S-AWC drivetrain system. (Photo: Mitsubishi)

Evo is capable of performing better under slippery conditions and under braking thanks to the new yaw feedback sensors and Sport ABS brake system. With S-AWD, the car can change the amount of force the brakes apply to the inside and outside wheels to aid in controlling oversteer and understeer. It also helps the active differentials to shift power between the left and right wheels of the car more effectively. S-AWC has three different modes that can be selected to set the car up for different conditions, including TARMAC for dry paved roads, GRAVEL for wet or unmade surfaces and SNOW for when the white stuff is falling from the sky.

The next big announcement is that the Evo will feature a dual-clutch gearbox

S-AWC will ensure that the Evo performs even better under braking and in slippery conditions. (Photo: Mitsubishi)

just like the DSG/S tronic gearbox system of Volkswagens and Audis. Dubbed Twin Clutch SST, it will feature three different shift modes, comprised of Normal, Sport and S-Sport for extra-rapid gear changes.

Mitsubishi's choice of this style of gearbox will provide other advantages besides improved performance, including less energy loss and better mileage. Though Chrysler (which shares platform architecture technology and its world engine and drivetrain mechanicals with Mitsubishi) has announced that it is putting dual-clutch transmissions in its vehicles, it looks like Mitsubishi will be first to make it to production. While it is destined to make life a little easier during stop and go traffic, we're curious whether or not the Evo will be offered with a regular manual transmission.

The new Lancer Evolution is set to hit dealerships late this autumn after debuting at this year's Tokyo Auto Show.

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