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The MITSUBISHI Concept-RA continues a long tradition of sporty coupe concepts dating back to the 1972 debut of the Galant GTO R73-X show car, which showcased high-revving, high-output (200 hp) DOHC engine technology. Combining cutting-edge drivetrain technologies with the latest clean diesel engine design, MITSUBISHI Concept-RA demonstrates that a thrilling performance machine and a sense of environmental responsibility need not be mutually exclusive concepts.

Photo credit to autoshow.roadfly.com

The Concept-RA features a "next generation" Super-All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system that consists of an Active Center Differential, Active Yaw Control, Sports ABS and Active Stability Control component systems, as equipped on the very capable Lancer Evolution. For Concept RA, this vehicle dynamics enhancing, all-wheel-drive system is upgraded to include Active Steering and Active Damping Control elements to further improve driver control, as well as vehicle handling and stability. S-AWC integrally manages all of these systems to realize advanced levels of control over drive torque and braking, thereby improving traction, cornering and vehicle stability. This complex system of electronic traction and driveline control help create intuitive, on-demand vehicle behavior that faithfully reflects driver intent under all driving conditions, from everyday use to emergency avoidance situations.

MITSUBISHI Concept-RA is powered by a new high-output, low-emissions 2.2-liter 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve turbo diesel engine. This engine features the Mitsubishi innovative Valve timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) system valvetrain that offers continuously variable valve timing control. The new diesel engine is equipped with piezoelectric injector common-rail direct fuel injection that allows a lower compression ratio and a VD (Variable Diffuser)/VG (Variable Geometry) turbocharger. The 2.2-liter engine delivers a maximum output of 201 hp (150 kW) and maximum torque of 310 ft-lbs (42.8 kg-m). In an effort to comply with U.S. emissions standards (Tier 2 Bin 5 emission regulations), the clean diesel unit relies on a new catalytic converter exhaust system that utilizes diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), NOx trap catalyst (NTC) and diesel particulate filter (DPF) technologies. When this is mated to a Twin Clutch-SST gearbox, the torque-rich diesel engine will deliver sportier performance with a high degree of fuel efficiency.

MITSUBISHI Concept-RA makes extensive use of lightweight materials in its contruction to help reduce vehicle mass for improved performance, fuel economy and safety. The athletically styled coupe features a new body structure that utilizes an aluminum space frame made from extruded aluminum sections and die-cast aluminum components; while the hood, fenders and other outer panels are molded from impact-resistant and easily recyclable plastic resin.