The Japanese company has been assembling the 1.5-liter Mitsubishi 4A91 gasoline engine since 2004 and putting it on such popular models as the Colt and Lancer, as well as many Chinese cars. This power unit was created as part of a joint venture with Daimler-Chrysler.
Specifications
| Production years | since 2004 |
| Displacement, cc | 1499 |
| Fuel system | injector |
| Power output, hp | 109 |
| Torque output, Nm | 145 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 75 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 84.8 |
| Compression ratio | 10.5 |
| Features | no |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | MIVEC |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.0 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 4/5 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Mitsubishi Lancer 2008) — city — highway — combined |
8.0 5.2 6.4 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~225 000 |
| Weight, kg | 130 |
The engine was installed on:
- Mitsubishi Colt Z30 in 2004 – 2013;
- Mitsubishi Lancer CY in 2007 – 2017;
- Mitsubishi Xpander since 2017;
- Smart Forfour in 2004 – 2006;
- BAIC BJ20 since 2015;
- Brilliance BS2 in 2008 – 2013.
Disadvantages of the Mitsubishi 4A91 engine
- Reliable in general, the unit is known for its oil burner already at a run of 100,000 km.
- The cause of the burn in the occurrence of piston rings or wear of valve stem seals.
- Sooner or later, this turns into oil starvation and cranking of the liners.
- On long runs, leaks from the front crankshaft oil seal are regularly encountered.
- Also, the o-ring between the manifold and the catalyst often burns out.
Frequently asked questions about the Mitsubishi 4A91
How much power does the Mitsubishi 4A91 make?
The Mitsubishi 4A91 develops 109 hp and 145 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Mitsubishi 4A91 take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.0 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Mitsubishi 4A91 have a timing belt or chain?
The Mitsubishi 4A91 uses a timing chain.
Is the Mitsubishi 4A91 turbocharged?
No, the Mitsubishi 4A91 is naturally aspirated.
Does the Mitsubishi 4A91 need valve clearance adjustment?
Yes, there are no hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances have to be checked and adjusted periodically.
How long does the Mitsubishi 4A91 last?
The typical lifespan of the Mitsubishi 4A91 is ~225 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Mitsubishi 4A91?
Mitsubishi Lancer 2008: city 8.0, highway 5.2, combined 6.4 L/100 km.
What cars was the Mitsubishi 4A91 installed on?
Mitsubishi Colt Z30 in 2004 - 2013; Mitsubishi Lancer CY in 2007 - 2017; Mitsubishi Xpander since 2017; Smart Forfour in 2004 - 2006; BAIC BJ20 since 2015; Brilliance BS2 in 2008 - 2013.
What are the common problems of the Mitsubishi 4A91?
Reliable in general, the unit is known for its oil burner already at a run of 100,000 km. The cause of the burn in the occurrence of piston rings or wear of valve stem seals. All known problems.





