The 4G63 engine family, including its turbocharged variant 4G63T, appeared in several Mitsubishi performance and enthusiast-favorite models, most famously the Lancer Evolution line, the Galant VR-4, and the Eclipse lineage (along with DSM partners Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser).
Understanding the 4G63 engine family
The 4G63 family is a 2.0-liter inline-4 from Mitsubishi that was produced in naturally aspirated (4G63) and turbocharged (4G63T) forms. It powered a range of Mitsubishi cars in the 1980s and 1990s, and it became especially well-known for use in rally-inspired and performance models. Over time, Mitsubishi shifted away from the 4G63 in favor of newer engines, with the turbo variant remaining iconic among enthusiasts for its tuning potential.
Models that used the turbocharged 4G63T
Below are the main Mitsubishi and closely related models that employed the turbocharged 4G63T engine. The list highlights cars famous for performance variants that helped define the 4G63 era.
- Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (I through VIII) — turbo 4G63T supplied the backbone of early Evolution performance, with later generations shifting to newer engines.
- Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 (early 1990s) — turbo 4G63T in the all-wheel-drive, performance-oriented model
- Mitsubishi Eclipse (1G) GS-T and GST — turbo variants that popularized the 4G63T in the American DSM lineup
- Diamond Star Motors (DSM) lineup partners — Eagle Talon (Turbo), Plymouth Laser Turbo — all sharing the 4G63T in many market configurations
These turbo applications helped cement the 4G63T as a renowned performance engine in Mitsubishi’s lineup and in related DSM hatchbacks and coupes sold in North America.
Notes on availability and evolution
While the 4G63 and 4G63T were highly influential, Mitsubishi gradually transitioned to newer powerplants in the 2000s and 2010s. Modern Mitsubishis no longer use the 4G63 family; successors like the 4B11 and other modern engines have taken over in current models. The 4G63 legacy remains strong among collectors and tuning communities, especially for the Lancer Evolution and DSM-era vehicles.
Summary
The 4G63 engine family, especially the turbocharged 4G63T, powered several notable Mitsubishi performance machines including the Lancer Evolution line, Galant VR-4, and the Eclipse/DSM trio (Eclipse, Eagle Talon, Plymouth Laser). Its enduring reputation stems from its robustness and tunability, even as Mitsubishi moved on to newer engines in later generations.