So, you're looking to soup up your 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS? Awesome! The Lancer GTS is a fantastic platform for tuning, offering a great balance of sporty handling and everyday usability. Whether you're aiming for more horsepower, improved handling, or just a more aggressive look, this guide will walk you through some popular and effective tuning options. Let's dive in and transform your Lancer GTS into the ride of your dreams!

Performance Tuning: Unleashing the Beast

When it comes to performance tuning, the goal is simple: extract more power and improve overall responsiveness. For the 2009 Lancer GTS, a few key areas can make a significant difference. First and foremost, consider the air intake system. Upgrading to a cold air intake can drastically improve airflow to the engine. This not only increases horsepower but also often results in a more aggressive intake sound, which, let's be honest, is pretty cool. Brands like K&N and Injen offer excellent options specifically designed for the Lancer GTS. Make sure to check local regulations, though, as some intakes might not be street legal in certain areas.

Next up, think about the exhaust system. The stock exhaust on the Lancer GTS is decent, but it's far from optimal for performance. Swapping it out for a cat-back or turbo-back exhaust system can free up a considerable amount of horsepower. A cat-back system replaces everything from the catalytic converter back, while a turbo-back system replaces the entire exhaust, including the downpipe (if you were to turbocharge the car, of course). Brands like Magnaflow and Borla are known for their high-quality exhaust systems that provide both performance gains and a sporty sound. Again, keep an eye on local regulations regarding emissions.

ECU tuning is another crucial aspect of performance enhancement. The engine control unit (ECU) manages various parameters, such as fuel injection and ignition timing. By reflashing or using a piggyback ECU, you can optimize these parameters for increased performance. A custom tune tailored to your specific modifications will yield the best results. Companies like Cobb Tuning offer Accessports that allow you to load pre-made maps or create custom tunes. Remember, a proper tune is essential to ensure your engine runs reliably and efficiently with the new modifications. Ignoring this can lead to serious engine damage, so don't skimp on a good tuner.

Finally, don't overlook the importance of supporting modifications. Upgrading your spark plugs to a colder heat range can help prevent pre-ignition, especially if you're increasing boost. Similarly, using higher-octane fuel can help protect against knock. Consider also upgrading your fuel injectors and fuel pump if you plan to make significant power increases. These upgrades ensure your engine gets the fuel it needs to perform optimally.

Handling Upgrades: Cornering Like a Pro

Improving the handling of your 2009 Lancer GTS is just as important as increasing its power. A car that handles well is more fun to drive and inspires confidence on the road or track. One of the first upgrades you should consider is the suspension system. Lowering springs can improve the car's stance and reduce body roll, resulting in sharper handling. Brands like Eibach and H&R offer high-quality lowering springs that are specifically designed for the Lancer GTS. Be mindful of the drop height, as too much lowering can negatively impact ride quality and suspension travel.

For even better handling, consider upgrading to coilovers. Coilovers offer adjustable ride height and damping, allowing you to fine-tune the suspension to your specific needs and preferences. This is a more advanced modification, but it can make a significant difference in the car's handling performance. Companies like Tein and BC Racing offer excellent coilover systems for the Lancer GTS. Investing in professional installation and setup is highly recommended to ensure optimal performance.

Sway bars are another effective way to improve handling. Upgrading to thicker sway bars reduces body roll even further, resulting in flatter cornering. A stiffer rear sway bar can also help to reduce understeer, a common handling characteristic in front-wheel-drive cars like the Lancer GTS. Whiteline and Progress offer high-quality sway bars designed to improve the handling of your Lancer.

Don't forget about the wheels and tires. Upgrading to lighter wheels can reduce unsprung weight, improving acceleration, braking, and handling. Wider tires provide more grip, further enhancing handling performance. Choose a tire compound that suits your driving style and conditions. Performance tires from brands like Michelin and Bridgestone can dramatically improve the handling of your Lancer GTS. Ensure that the wheel and tire combination you choose fits properly and doesn't rub against the fenders or suspension components.

Brake upgrades are crucial, especially if you're increasing horsepower and improving handling. Upgrading to larger rotors, more aggressive brake pads, and stainless steel brake lines can significantly improve braking performance. This not only enhances safety but also allows you to brake later and harder, improving your overall driving experience. Brands like Brembo and StopTech offer high-quality brake upgrades for the Lancer GTS.

Aesthetic Enhancements: Turning Heads

While performance and handling are important, aesthetics play a significant role in making your Lancer GTS truly your own. There are countless ways to customize the appearance of your car, from subtle modifications to more dramatic changes. One of the most popular modifications is the addition of a body kit. A body kit can transform the look of your Lancer GTS, giving it a more aggressive and sporty appearance. Look for kits that complement the car's existing lines and don't look too out of place. Some popular body kit manufacturers include VIS Racing and Extreme Dimensions. Professional installation is often recommended to ensure a proper fit and finish.

Spoiler can also add a sporty touch to your Lancer GTS. A rear spoiler can improve the car's aerodynamics, but it's mostly for looks. Choose a spoiler that complements the car's overall design and doesn't look too over the top. Similarly, a front lip spoiler can enhance the car's front-end appearance and improve airflow under the car. There are many styles and materials to choose from, so find one that suits your personal taste.

Lighting upgrades are another way to enhance the look of your Lancer GTS. Upgrading to LED headlights and taillights can improve visibility and give the car a more modern appearance. Projector headlights can also improve light output and focus, enhancing both safety and aesthetics. Adding aftermarket fog lights can also improve visibility in adverse conditions. Make sure to choose lighting upgrades that are DOT-approved and comply with local regulations.

Window tint is a simple yet effective way to improve the look of your Lancer GTS. Window tint can enhance the car's appearance, reduce glare, and provide privacy. Choose a tint percentage that complies with local laws and regulations. Professional installation is recommended to ensure a smooth and bubble-free finish.

Finally, don't underestimate the impact of a clean and well-maintained interior. Upgrading to aftermarket seats can improve comfort and support. Adding a short-throw shifter can improve the feel of the gear changes. Installing a boost gauge or other aftermarket gauges can provide valuable information about your engine's performance. A clean and organized interior can make your Lancer GTS a more enjoyable place to be.

Important Considerations Before Tuning

Before you start throwing parts at your Lancer GTS, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. First and foremost, consider your budget. Tuning can be an expensive hobby, so it's important to set a realistic budget and stick to it. Prioritize the modifications that will have the biggest impact on performance and handling. Don't be afraid to shop around for the best prices on parts and labor.

Research is key. Before making any modifications, research the specific parts you're interested in and read reviews from other Lancer GTS owners. This will help you make informed decisions and avoid wasting money on parts that don't perform as expected. Online forums and social media groups dedicated to the Lancer GTS can be valuable resources for information and advice.

Installation can be tricky. Unless you're an experienced mechanic, it's often best to have a professional install your modifications. This will ensure that the parts are installed correctly and that your car is running properly. Choose a reputable shop with experience working on Lancer GTS models.

Maintenance is often overlooked. Regular maintenance is essential to keep your Lancer GTS running smoothly, especially after making modifications. Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule and address any issues promptly. This will help to ensure that your car remains reliable and enjoyable to drive for years to come.

And lastly, legality is important. Be aware of local laws and regulations regarding vehicle modifications. Some modifications may not be street legal in certain areas. Make sure to check local regulations before making any modifications to your Lancer GTS. This will help you avoid costly fines and legal issues.

Conclusion: Your Tuned Lancer Awaits

Tuning your 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS can be a rewarding experience. By carefully selecting the right modifications and following the advice in this guide, you can transform your Lancer GTS into a high-performing and stylish machine. Remember to prioritize performance, handling, and aesthetics, and to consider your budget, research, installation, maintenance, and legality. With a little planning and effort, you can create a Lancer GTS that is truly your own.