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 4G15…
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 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.
Engine Finders UK Ltd, which operates EngineCode.uk, can pass your enquiry to engine suppliers in the UK. The service is for vehicles in the United Kingdom, with UK delivery or fitting. This is a commercially connected service, and sending an enquiry does not confirm diagnosis or compatibility.
Diagnostic reminder: If a technician has recommended replacing the engine, you can send an enquiry to engine suppliers in the UK. Confirm the diagnosis first: an engine-code record does not diagnose a fault.
Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (1992–2000) and JAMA durability failure statistics (1990–2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The 4G15T offers spirited performance but requires diligent maintenance. Early models (1989–1995) had exhaust manifold and turbo gasket issues. Post-1996 revisions improved durability. Regular oil changes with correct 10W-40 oil, timely timing belt replacement, and premium fuel greatly enhance longevity.
Key issues include exhaust manifold/turbo gasket leaks (early builds), timing belt failure (interference engine), turbo oil seal leaks, and ignition fouling under boost. These are documented in Mitsubishi technical bulletins TB‑92‑07‑088 and related TIS entries.
The 4G15T powered the Mitsubishi Mirage Cyborg (1989–1995), Colt GTI (1989–1995), Lancer MR/GSR Turbo (1991–1996), and Libero GT (1992–1996). It was exclusive to Japanese and select European performance variants.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the 4G15T platform, but increasing boost or altering engine parameters accelerates component wear, impacts emissions compliance, and may void vehicle warranties. Any modifications should be evaluated carefully by a qualified specialist.
Moderate for a turbo petrol of its era. In a Mirage Cyborg (1992), typical consumption is ~9.5 L/100km (city) and ~6.8 L/100km (highway), or about 30 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 28–33 mpg (UK) when maintained properly.
Yes. The 4G15T is an interference engine. If the timing belt fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact can cause severe internal damage. Timing belt replacement every 90,000 km or 5 years is critical to prevent catastrophic failure.
Mitsubishi specifies SAE 10W-40 oil meeting API SG/SH (or ACEA A3/B3). Always use a quality mineral or semi-synthetic oil with good shear stability and change every 7,500 km to protect the turbocharger and minimize sludge.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
EngineCode.uk is operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. It provides engine-reference information and an optional commercial enquiry service. It is not an official manufacturer website. Check the record's sources and confirm vehicle-specific details before relying on it for parts, repairs or replacement.
Our editorial standard prioritises relevant manufacturer documentation and official regulatory sources. The sources and verification status for a record should be checked alongside the data.
A statement is not verified merely because a source is listed. Where supporting evidence is missing or conflicting, the record should identify that limitation. Please report unsupported or inconsistent information.
Transparency in gaps
A missing or unverified value does not mean the manufacturer has withheld it. We distinguish information not yet verified, information not available to us, and information explicitly not disclosed by the source.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Records are subject to review and correction. Source links, dates and verification notes should be read with the technical information. Our Editorial and Sourcing Policy explains our standards and review process.
Found an error or missing source? Report a problem with this page. Include the field or statement concerned and a supporting source if available. You can also email corrections@enginecode.uk.
Copyright and permissions
Images and other material may be protected by copyright. Attribution does not by itself grant permission to reuse material. If you believe material on this site infringes your rights, contact copyrights@enginecode.uk with the page URL and details of your claim. We will review the material and take appropriate action.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
Our Privacy Policy explains how Engine Finders UK Ltd uses information from visits, vehicle lookups, enquiries and messages. Our Cookie Policy explains cookies and similar technologies and how to change your choices.
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
Ownership and commercial services
EngineCode.uk is owned and operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. Alongside our reference content, we offer an optional replacement-engine enquiry service through Engine Finders and may identify relevant services provided by businesses connected with us. These commercial connections are disclosed. Using an enquiry service is not required to read our reference content.
Engine Finders UK Ltd operates this website. Our optional enquiry service has a commercial purpose. Our Ownership and Commercial Disclosure explains the relationship between the reference website and that service. Participating suppliers pay a fee or subscription to participate on the network and receive quote requests.
Use this record as a starting point for identification. Specifications and vehicle applications may contain errors or omissions. Confirm the exact engine variant and compatibility using vehicle-specific documentation and a qualified supplier or technician.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.