Racing Lancer is a Super Production Cross-Country Rally car, which has been developed in compliance with the FIA's Group T1 regulations (modified cross-country rally cars) with the aim of playing a major role at the 2009 Dakar Rally, which will took place in South America.

The Racing Lancer is defined as a crossover between on-road and off-road rally vehicle. According to Mitsubishi, "It will reach a wider marketing audience than any of its predecessors while re-launching Lancer’s racing career."

Sporting a silhouette inspired by the recently previewed Lancer Sportback 5-door hatch, Racing Lancer will support Mitsubishi’s offensive in the passenger car sector, much like the Pajero Evolution in parallel to the production Shogun in 2006.

The Racing Lancer is powered by a 3 liter V6 turbocharged diesel eingine capable of delivering 260hp.

The Mitsubishi MRX09

MRX09 is Mitsubishi’s new codename for its latest cross-country rally challenger. 'MRX09' stands for 'Mitsubishi Rally 'Cross Country' ('X'), plus a suffix for the year in which it competes ('09' = 2009).

The MRX09 features a new, multi-tubular steel frame which has benefited from advanced Computer Aided Engineering analysis with a view to optimizing the layout and dimensioning of the tubing.

The carbon-fibre bodywork of the MRX09 is redolent of the Lancer Sportback, and will come equipped with the same 4WD system, drive train, suspension and brakes - following their modification in accordance with the new technical regulations and as a function of the characteristics of the diesel turbo powerplant.

Technical Specifications

• Overall length: 4,475mm
• Overall width: 1,990mm
• Wheelbase: 2,900mm
• Track (front/rear): 1,750mm/1,750mm
• Weight: 1,900kg
• Engine: 2,997cc V6 turbocharged diesel Maximum power: more than 190kW (260hp)
• Maximum torque: more than 650Nm (66.3kgm)
• Transmission: Ricardo five-speed sequential, manual 4WD system: permanent four-wheel drive with limited slip central differential

(Source: Mitsubishi)