siko

Mitsubishi Concept-RA With EVO X AWD System To Debut In Detroit

Mitsubishi has announced that it will premiere the “MITSUBISHI Concept-RA” at the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit on January 13. The coupe concept, which features the Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) vehicle dynamics control system driveline and the Twin Clutch SST automated manual transmission used in Lancer Evolution X, is powered by a new high-output, high-efficiency clean diesel engine.

The 2.2-liter 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve diesel engine is fitted with a VD (Variable Diffuser)/VG (Variable Geometry) turbocharger. According to the Japanese carmaker, the diesel unit delivers a maximum output of 204 PS and maximum torque of 420 Nm (42.8 kg-m). In order to comply with U.S. emissions standards (Tier 2 Bin 5 emission regulations), the engine utilizes a new catalytic converter system that brings together diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), NOx trap catalyst (NTC) and diesel particulate filter (DPF) technologies.

The “MITSUBISHI Concept-RA” is based on a new lightweight body structure using an aluminium space frame made from extruded aluminium sections and die-cast aluminium members. Additionally, the engine hood, fenders and other outer panels are made from high impact-resistance and easily recyclable plastic resin.

[Source: CarScoop]

monster

Is this the replacement for the new Eclipse or something?

siko

Doubt it... probably just a concept to showcase new tech.

siko

Rumormill: Mitsubishi Concept-RA may hint at Eclipse for Europe

This is not just rumormill, this is rumors of hints and suggestions made by anonymous people. Just last week we wondered whether Mitsubishi's Concept-RA would lead to a new -- and proper -- Eclipse. What Car? went further, and although citing nothing more than "insiders," said that the red zinger "could be a forerunner for a new Eclipse coupe, which could go on sale in Europe."

True, that's a lot of coulds. But it wasn't so long ago that the Eclipse was an object of desire, and there can't be any doubt that Mitsubishi would love to see those days return -- especially after watching rival Nissan revive brand lust by slowly reinjecting its products with feeling.

Mitsubishi's attempt to mainstream the Eclipse robbed it of the fan base it had and yet didn't grow a new one. We suppose the questions, as always, would be money and the business case, but we for one would love to see Mitsu do that car, right there, in the picture above, as the new Eclipse. If they could get enough other people behind it, we wouldn't be surprised if they did. (Hint: that means it's time to tell them what you think. The comments box is waiting. Europeans are welcome.)

[Source: What Car?]