S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) is a proprietary vehicle dynamics control system that has been installed on Mitsubishi AWD cars. It has been used since 2007. The system controls how much torque is transmitted to each wheel. This improves the vehicle’s dynamics, handling, safety, and off-road capability.
How S-AWC works
The all-wheel drive in cars equipped with S-AWC can be full-time or on-demand. An electronically controlled multi-plate clutch or a centre differential that splits the torque symmetrically is used to distribute torque between the axles. In hybrid versions, there is no mechanical coupling between the axles. The rear axle is powered by an electric motor.
S-AWC optimises the operation of the following systems:
- AYC (Active Yaw Control): This controls the wheel differentials and power steering. The system distributes the torque between all four wheels depending on road conditions.
- ASC (Active Stability Control): This helps to maintain the intended path by slowing down a slipping axle and reducing engine torque.
- Sport ABS: This improves braking efficiency when cornering and prevents skidding.
Technical features of S-AWC
| Drive type | Distribution of torque | Modes | Mitsubishi models equipped with this drive type | |
| between the axles | between the wheels | |||
| On-demand AWD | The multi-plate clutch engages the rear axle when it detects that the front one is slipping. | AYC controls the power steering, active front differential, and brakes. | Eco: For saving fuel. Snow: For slippery surfaces. Normal: For dry roads. Lock: For off-road surfaces. | Outlander |
| Hybrid AWD | The Twin Motor 4WD system controls the 2 electric motors, each of which drives its own axle. | AYC slows down slipping wheels using the braking mechanisms. | Normal: For driving on good surfaces. 4WD Lock: For off-road conditions. | Outlander PHEV |
| Full-time AWD | The centre differential distributes the engine torque in a 50:50 ratio. | AYC controls the brakes and active differential. | Tarmac: For dry surfaces. Gravel: For wet and dirt surfaces. Snow: For slippery surfaces. | Lancer Evolution |
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