RALLIART UNLEASHES �EXTREME� VERSION OF EVO VI ROAD CAR

Last week we posted Subaru's press release for the sensational new Subaru Impreza P1. Pictures have now arrived of its biggest rival - the Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VI Extreme. It appears to have the edge.

�EXTREME� is the name of Ralliart UK�s ultimate road-going derivative of the world championship winning EVO VI rally car, launched at the London Motor Show on Motor Sport day 27 October.

Already acclaimed as one of the most entertaining driver�s cars of the decade, eXtreme takes the appeal of the EVO VI onto an even higher plane with a mind-bending mix of handling, a competition-inspired equipment level and, to cap it all, a 340 bhp turbocharged engine (estimated).

In the creation of extreme, Ralliart UK have employed motorsport components first used to devastating effect on the World Rally Championship cars. Under the guidance of Ralliart UK�s Toney Cox, the former Ralliart Europe WRC Team Manager, the engine and chassis platform�s true potential has been realised.

Key to the increased driving appeal of extreme is the uprated engine power and torque. A new turbocharger boasting titanium internals and spinning at well over 1.0 bar, plus the utilisation of larger diameter induction and exhaust systems, enhance engine response considerably. Add to this a remapped engine ECU from Mitsubishi�s motor sport programme and the combination is devastatingly effective.

Engine modifications increase the power of the standard EVO VI from 280 to 340 bhp and the torque from 274lb ft to 303lb ft. Both figures are realised at the same rpm as the standard EVO VI, so there is no loss of driveability or engine tractability. In fact the results are even more dramatic as extreme has shed some 165 lb from the EVO VI�s GSR kerb weight to produce a power to weight ratio of 270bhp per ton.

Out on the road, the extra power translates to 0-60mph acceleration in just 4.0 seconds and a 0-100 mph figure of 10.0 seconds dead. However, eXtreme is much more than just blistering acceleration, as stopping power too is outstanding, thanks to massive 17 inch diameter ventilated front discs. Put into perspective, extreme will accelerate from 0-60mph and back to zero again in a mere 6.5 seconds - the same amount of time a Porsche Boxter 2.5 takes to reach 60 mph from rest (estimated figures).

Creating extra horsepower is one thing, but controlling it so it can be used effectively is another. The extra engine torque reaction created by sudden on/off power applications is limited by new �roll stopper engine mounts� while an aluminium strut brace provides extra stiffness to the suspension turrets for consistent handling performance.

The highly efficient suspension set up of EVO VI, comprising MacPherson front struts and a Multi-link rear is retained, but the car sits 28mm lower at the front and 14mm at the rear. Larger Sports front and rear roll bar links and bushes are incorporated and the car now rides on 18x8 inch polished alloy road wheels shod with 225/40ZR18 tyres.

Visual changes over EVO VI begin with additional front and rear spoilers and lowered side sills. An aluminium bonnet and front wings reduce weight, while colour-keyed bumpers, a carbon-style rear wing, a stainless steel exhaust protector and eXtreme decals complete the transformation.

One of the key elements of EVO VI, is its uncompromised driving appeal, enhanced inside with highly supportive Recaro seats and components matched for driving pleasure. The extreme version boasts an increased competition element with four point harnesses for driver and front passenger in addition to standard three point ELR seat belts. A three spoke Momo wheel, an aluminium pedal extension kit, and carbon fibre effect instrument surround complete the race-ready look.

This equipment is in addition to the comprehensive standard EVO VI specification, which includes air conditioning, tilt adjustable steering, electric windows, mirrors, central locking, twin airbags and a Thatcham Category 1 Alarm System. Additionally, a long list of upgrade options are offered by Ralliart UK, including a larger diameter AP Sports Brake upgrade kit and a multi-plate clutch assembly.

The EVO VI eXtreme will be produced in limited numbers exclusively by Ralliart UK and each car will be individually numbered. A three-year unlimited mileage warranty is offered and the on the road price is �41,995.

Customers who place a deposit at the show will be invited to test drive the eXtreme at a national racing circuit at the vehicle�s launch shortly afterwards.

• Main news page
• Main motorsport news page
• The Sanremo Rally report
• Technical specifications of the Extreme

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