The Mitsubishi 4G15T is a 1,468 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 1989 and 2003. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 16 valves, and a Mitsubishi TD02 or TD025 turbocharger depending on application. In standard form it delivered 85–103 kW (115–140 PS) and torque figures between 172–210 Nm, offering spirited performance for its era.
Fitted to performance variants such as the Mitsubishi Mirage Cyborg, Lancer MR, and Colt GTI, the 4G15T was engineered for compact hot‑hatch agility and responsive turbocharged delivery. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic fuel injection, an oxygen sensor feedback loop, and a three‑way catalytic converter, enabling compliance with Japanese Ministry of Transport (JIS D 1001) and early Euro 1 standards.
One documented concern is premature failure of the exhaust manifold and turbocharger gaskets due to thermal cycling stress, highlighted in Mitsubishi Technical Bulletin TB‑92‑07‑088. This issue stems from material fatigue in the original cast‑iron manifold and inadequate gasket sealing under repeated heat cycles. From 1996, revised manifold castings and multi‑layer steel (MLS) gaskets were introduced across all applications.
Production years 1989–1992 meet JIS D 1001 standards; 1993–2003 models meet Euro 1 depending on market (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/4G15T).
The Mitsubishi 4G15T is a 1,468 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact performance models (1989–2003). It combines SOHC valvetrain with a small-frame turbocharger to deliver responsive mid‑range torque and agile driving dynamics. Designed to meet Japanese JIS and later Euro 1 emissions standards, it balances performance with drivability for its era.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,468 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.5 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 85–103 kW (115–140 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 172–210 Nm @ 3,000–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Electronic multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | JIS D 1001 (1989–1992); Euro 1 (1993–2003) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Mitsubishi TD02 or TD025 (depending on model year) | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | API SG/SH, SAE 10W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The turbocharged SOHC design provides brisk mid-range response ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 7,500 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo bearing wear and sludge buildup. API SG/SH (10W-40) oil is critical due to its shear stability under boost conditions. Extended intervals or low-detergent oils accelerate turbo shaft wear and exhaust manifold gasket failure. Post-1996 engines feature MLS gaskets and reinforced manifolds; pre-1996 units should be inspected per Mitsubishi TB‑92‑07‑088. The timing belt must be replaced every 90,000 km or 5 years to prevent catastrophic interference damage.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG/SH (10W-40) specification (Mitsubishi TB‑92‑07‑088). ACEA A3/B3 oils are acceptable alternatives.
Emissions: JIS D 1001 certification applies to 1989–1992 models only (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/4G15T). Euro 1 compliance confirmed for 1993–2003 builds.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Higher-output variants require premium unleaded (RON 95+) for knock prevention (Mitsubishi TIS Doc. TURBO‑4G15).
Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs TURBO‑4G15, TIMING‑4G15T, FUEL‑4G15T
JAMA Type Approval Database (JAMA/EMS/4G15T)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Mitsubishi 4G15T was used across Mitsubishi's Global Compact platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Lancer MR and revised intercooler piping in the Mirage Cyborg—and from 1996 the facelifted Colt GTI adopted updated exhaust manifolds, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crankshaft pulley (Mitsubishi TIS TURBO‑4G15). The 4th and 5th VIN digits indicate engine family ('4G' for 4G15 series). Early engines (1989–1995) have silver valve covers with cast-iron exhaust manifolds; post-1996 units use similar covers but with updated MLS gaskets and reinforced manifolds. Critical differentiation from naturally aspirated 4G15: 4G15T has a turbocharger, lower compression (8.5:1 vs 9.5:1), and unique ECU. Service parts require production date verification—exhaust manifold kits for engines before 01/1996 are incompatible with later units due to flange redesign (Mitsubishi TB‑92‑07‑088).
The 4G15T's primary reliability risk is exhaust manifold and turbo gasket failure in early builds (1989–1995), with elevated incidence in high-boost or stop-start urban use. Mitsubishi internal quality data from 1997 indicated up to 18% of pre-1996 engines exhibited exhaust leaks before 120,000 km, while JAMA durability testing confirmed revised manifolds reduced this to <4% in post-1996 units. Extended oil change intervals and low-quality fuel accelerate turbo degradation, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (1992–2000) and JAMA durability failure statistics (1990–2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MITSUBISHI 4G15T.
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