The Mitsubishi Lancer CS3 was once the most affordable saloon available on our local shores. It provedto be a big hit in car-crazy Singapore, amongst various factions, for varying reasons. With decent space available within the main cabin, four adults can commute comfortably in the CS3, perhaps even fie, if each was of a slightly smaller stature. The petrolhead, on the other hand, would find much joy and pleasure in the abundance of aftermarket parts readily available for the CS3. Of the two groups, the owner of this CS3, Suman, clearly belonged to the latter.

His prized asset was much more than just a simple mode of transport. It was an extension of his personality and style he wished to portray and showcase for all to see. Suman purchased his CS3 just over a year ago in December 2013, but shortlisted a handful of other cars throughout his decision making process. The Fiat Punto, Citroen C4 and Peugeot 208 were what piqued his interest as well. However, citing costly upkeep and repair issues as the main detractor, Suman decided against the European representatives and settled for the CS3.

Initially, Suman kept his ride as it was. However, after a couple of months of usage, the urge to soup it up soon got the better of him (“no thanks” to the readily available aftermarket parts in the market!). Suman proceeded to make changes starting from within. The first step consisted of swapping out the stock speedometer with one belonging to the Mitsubishi Evolution. Suman was sold the moment the Evolution’s speedometer was up for sale in the marketplace – even a high asking price from the seller proved futile to derail his purchase; no expenses spared indeed!

Moving on, the interior panels received some tender loving care; a total revamp, with the end result being that of the panels decked out in carbonfibre wrapping. This change proved a hit with numerous friends and associates of Suman’s, and remains one of his favourite embellishment decisions till date. Delving deeper into Suman’s project, the exterior of the CS3 was next in line to face the firing squad. In the course of just a year, Suman changed rims no less than eight times! A carbon fibre bonnet further cranked aesthetic appeal up a notch, while also reducing the overall weight of the CS3.

Inspired by modified CS3s around the world, Suman embarked on a stance outlook. This project required plenty of tweaking to attain a flushed end result. D2 fully adjustable coilovers were set in place to reduce the ride height. Fender rolling was also executed in order for the wheels to tuck in nicely within the CS3’s bodywork. Safety and handling attributes were not overlooked too, with a host of anti-roll bars installed to ensure a more rigid chassis to tackle challenging corners at speed. On the performance front, Suman started fiddling with a Drift Racing exhaust that serves to dispense aural pleasure with a raspy growl, growing into a full-blown bellow when the revs arc northwards.

A lightweight crank pulley was set in place to cater for added torque, increasing the car’s responsiveness right from the get-go. A S90 throttle body was matched with a bored manifold, allowing maximum airflow into the engine. 255 High CC fuel pump injectors and Works Engineering fuel regulators ensure that fuel is delivered to the engine right when it was needed most. Even with his CS3’s COE set to expire in less than a handful of years, there seems to be no slowing this petrolhead in taking car modification to new heights. From a blank canvas to a masterpiece of art in motion, Suman is weighing his options to renew the COE of his most cherished asset. What’s next in store to perk up the vitality of his CS3 is a matter in which REV is eagerly awaiting for!

Mitsubishi Lancer CS3

Engine
Works Engineering 5 puck clutch, Silent engine damper, Front EVO 9 mounting, Works Engineering cam pulley, Works Engineering fuel regulator, lightweight crank pulley, 255 High CC fuel pump, long ram air intake with stainless steel open pod filter, customised green engine head, AVS vacuum and head piping, S90 throttle body, bore-d manifold, Drift Racing full exhaust system

Undercarriage
D2 fully adjustable coilovers, Ultra Racing front lower 4 point bar, Ultra Racing rear lower 4 point bar, Ultra Racing boot bar, Summit 22mm anti roll bar, ASR + Beaks rear bar, Alutec front strut bar, Evo 3 brake kit with Dixcel slotted rotors/pads, Magnum SSBH, Camber bolt for front suspension, 15” Rims with 123S tyres

Exterior
Ganador mirrors, Evo9 carbon fibre bonnet, CS5 Grille, sports kit, UV tinting rear car carbon series

Interior
Double din Pioneer DVD player conversion, Ralliart carbonfibre gear panel, Buddy Club short shifter, NRG steering with boss kit, Mitsubishi Evo speedometer, Marbella front car camera, Marbella GPS, SSCUS Euro driver and passenger seat, Spy 2-way alarm