Quote Originally Posted by inuvik View Post
Just a guess though, not sure why Mitsubishi made this change.
I might be wrong, but I see two benefits to this design:
1. Placing the catalytic converter closer to the exhaust manifold helps it reach operating temperature quicker.
2. Placing it up inside the engine compartment makes it more difficult to steal.

I strongly doubt these thoughts factored in Mitsubishi's decision, but rather it had to be some cost-saving measure.