Safety-Optimized RISE Body Structure

The reassuringly solid feeling one gets driving the new Lancer is rooted in a body structure engineered with greater inherent strength than its predecessor. That is one reason the new platform can be used for a variety of model types, including the new-generation Outlander SUV. Of course, the new structure has also been optimized for a higher level of crashworthiness, as well.

The 2008 Lancer is built around Mitsubishi's next-generation Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) unibody design. The highly rigid structure makes extensive use of high-tension steel, a material that was not used in the previous-generation Lancer. A stiff body structure can allow sport suspension tuning without compromising a compliant ride, and this platform allows for further handling development even beyond the new Lancer GTS model.

The Lancer's structural and suspension development reflects Mitsubishi's renowned motorsports expertise. In particular, lessons learned from reinforcing the structure of the previous-generation Lancer Evolution model have been integrated into the new-generation Lancer.

Compared to the previous-generation Lancer, torsional rigidity has been increased by 56 percent, and bending rigidity is up by 50 percent. These increases in both torsional and bending rigidity exceed body stiffness measurements of even the Lancer Evolution IX.

Straight front side members with an octagonal cross-section and a three-leg support structure, as well as increased application high-strength steel, are designed to help Lancer meet the highest crash test standards. The side pillars, roof joints and cross-car structure - combined with the standard front seat-mounted side air bags, driver knee air bag and standard front and rear curtain side air bags - give the new Lancer a higher degree of collision protection.