The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, sometimes known as “Evo,” is a sports sedan and rally car that Mitsubishi Motors of Japan produced from 1992 to 2016. It is based on the Lancer. Up to this point, there have been ten official versions, and each one is often identified by a Roman numeral. All-wheel drive systems and two-liter intercooled turbo inline four-cylinder engines are used across all generations.
The Evolution series was initially primarily meant for the Japanese market, but due to demand on the “grey import” market, it began to be sold through Ralliart dealer networks in the UK and other European countries from around 1998. In 2003, Mitsubishi made the decision to sell the eighth-generation Evolution to the US after seeing how well-received Subaru’s longtime rival, the Subaru Impreza WRX STi, did there.
Until the launching of the Evo IX in 2005, the Japanese-spec versions of all Evos were constrained to advertise no more than 280 PS (206 kW; 276 hp). However, according to reports, Mitsubishi was already building vehicles with more power while understating their stated outputs in order to comply with the contract. Every following iteration has therefore unofficially increased in power over the advertised values, with the Japanese-spec Evolution IX purportedly achieving an output of roughly 321 PS (236 kW; 317 hp). Several models with official power outputs up to 446 PS are available in different regions, mainly the UK (328 kW; 440 hp).
In This Article...
What makes the Mitsubishi Evo unique?
Beyond its exceptional speed and handling, the Evo is well-liked and sought-after because of the “The performance’s unpolished nature. Even though many contemporary cars are more than capable of making comparable turns of speed (both in a straight line and in bends), very few of them can do it as exhilaratingly and authentically as the Evo. Driving one of them is a different sensation, and compared to many more contemporary cars that might be equally as good or better performers, you feel much more linked to the automobile “in writing. Because of this, driving purists continue to favor the Evo as their vehicle of choice.
Why is a Mitsubishi Lancer considered an Evo?
Despite sharing the same platform and genetic makeup as the Lancer, the Lancer Evolution had a firmer suspension and more power than the Lancer. These distinctions were some of the most significant ones between the two vehicles.
STI or Evo, which is quicker?
The 122 horsepower per liter of the Evo significantly outperforms the 102 horsepower per liter of the STI. But it’s not that easy either, as weight to power is another crucial ratio to look at. The STI outperforms the Evo by at least 1.2 pounds per horsepower, regardless of how the measurement is done (from the crankshaft or the wheels).
Evo or WRX, which is faster?
The Lancer Evo significantly outperforms the WRX in terms of pure performance, especially when it comes to torque. There are several amenities available in both of these autos.
Are evos pricey?
Some vendors are demanding high prices for specific Evolution models with extremely little mileage, with some professionally modified or exceptionally clean specimens being listed for more than $50,000. However, it’s not unusual to see prices exceeding $30,000 even when looking at pretty typical 2006 and 2007 versions.
How can you distinguish between a Lancer and an Evo?
A 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine with 168 horsepower is what powers the Lancer GT, giving it average acceleration. A raucous 291-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder powering the Evo MR offers genuinely energizing acceleration once the turbo spools up.
Are Lancer Evos uncommon?
supposedly the 26th and final model. The auction for a rare 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VI is currently underway. The car, which was first marketed as a “Extreme edition,” is thought to be the 26th and final model made.
Why did Mitsubishi discontinue the Evo?
In summary, Mitsubishi ceased production of the Evo for the same reason it ceased production of all of its other outstanding performance vehicles: money.
Most purchasers like cars that are useful, dependable, and affordable. Most consumers don’t care much about pure performance or excitement, preferring these qualities wrapped together in a crossover or SUV.
Despite the fact that vehicle aficionados tend to be a “loud minority,” the majority of people who buy cars today prefer the models that Mitsubishi offers.
The truth is that many of the people making such statements would not be likely to actually go through and purchase, despite the fact that many will declare (particularly online) that they would love to buy a new Evo if one were available today.
A manufacturer like Mitsubishi runs a significant risk by creating a new version of the Evo or another high-performance vehicle only to have it fail on the market. This could be a deadly decision for a business, particularly in the difficult economic environment we currently face.
For those of us who want for a return to the period of speed, handling, and thrill, it may be discouraging and upsetting, but ultimately it’s impossible to fault a firm like Mitsubishi for producing what its customers want.
Most people just want affordable transportation that will transfer them and their children in comfort, safety, and convenience, ideally with eco-friendly credentials.
If other, larger Japanese automakers succeed with any new performance vehicles, it may present the best chance for the revival of the storied Evo badge.
For instance, if Toyota succeeds with the new GR Yaris, Mitsubishi might be persuaded to resurrect the Evo (or at least develop another performance vehicle, such as the Mirage Cyborg!).
The Evo is no longer being produced by Mitsubishi, and there are no plans for a comeback, so now is the ideal moment to seek for your own Evo. Prices have been skyrocketing recently and are certain to keep rising as more examples succumb to accidents, neglect, and aging.