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The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, commonly referred to as 'Evo',[1] is a sports sedan based on the Lancer that was manufactured by Japanese manufacturer Mitsubishi Motors from 1992 until 2016. There have been ten official versions to date, and the designation of each model is most commonly a Roman numeral. All use two litre turbocharged inline four-cylinder engines and all-wheel drive systems.[2]

The Evolution was originally intended only for Japanese markets, but demand on the "grey import" market led the Evolution series to be offered through Ralliart dealer networks in the United Kingdom and in various European markets from around 1998. Mitsubishi decided to export the eighth generation Evolution to the United States in 2003 after witnessing the success Subaru had in that market with their long-time direct rival, the Subaru Impreza WRX STi.

Japanese-spec versions of all Evos until the release of the Evo IX in 2005 were limited by a gentlemen's agreement to advertise no more than 280 PS (206 kW; 276 hp). However, sources say Mitsubishi had already been producing cars with more power but had been underrating the official power outputs in order to be in compliance with the agreement.[4] Therefore, each subsequent version has unofficially evolved above the advertised power figures, with the Japanese-spec Evolution IX reaching an alleged output of around 321 PS (236 kW; 317 hp). Various versions available in other markets, particularly the UK, have official power outputs up to 446 PS (328 kW; 440 hp).

The tenth and final generation of the Lancer Evolution (Evo X) was launched in Japan in 2007, and overseas markets in 2008. The Evo X was produced for almost 10 years until it retired in April 2016.

Japanese-spec[citati versions of all Evos until the release of the Evo IX in 2005 were limited by a gentlemen's agreement to advertise no more than 280 PS (206 kW; 276 hp). However, sources say Mitsubishi had already been producing cars with more power but had been underrating the official power outputs in order to be in compliance with the agreement.[4] Therefore, each subsequent version has unofficially evolved above the advertised power figures, with the Japanese-spec Evolution IX reaching an alleged output of around 321 PS (236 kW; 317 hp). Various versions available in other markets, particularly the UK, have official power outputs up to 446 PS (328 kW; 440 hp).

See Autopedia's comprehensive Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Review.

Recent Changes[]

  • On May 2009, Mitsubishi of Europe announced a midway model between the FQ-300 and the FQ-400 dubbed the FQ-330 SST. As the name implies, the FQ-330 will have 330 horsepower (an addition of 29 hp and 22 lb. ft. of torque over the base model and Mitsubishi's new 6-speed Twin-Clutch Sports Shift Transmission (TC-SST). Additional changes include reworked intake, high-flow down-pipe, exhaust and catalytic converter and re-mapped ECU, all of which helps shave 0.3 seconds from the nought to 60 mph sprint. Pricing starts at £35,999, which is only a £3,000 premium over the entry-level FQ-300. [1]


  • For MY2010, Mitsubishi announced the range-topping JDM Mitsubishi Lancer EVO X GSR Premium Edition.[2]
  • On September 2008, The British Police debuted their new Mitsubishi Lancer EVO X Police Interceptor at the National Association of Police Fleet Managers' exhibition.[3]

Styles and Major Options[]

Evo X FQ-300[]
Evo X FQ-330 SST (Euro Market only)[]
Evo X FQ-360[]
Evo X FQ-400 (UK Market only)[]

Pricing[]

MODEL Trims
Lancer Evolution GSR Lancer Evolution MR
MSRP
$33,665 $38,965
Invoice
$31,093 $36,089

Gas Mileage[]

Add more fields as necessary.

As seen on the FuelEconomy.gov website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

Trim
Lancer Evolution GSR Lancer Evolution MR
MPG
17/22 16/22

Engine and Transmission[]

  • 4 cylinder DOHC 16 valve
  • 1998 cc
  • Induction: Intercooled Turbo Petrol
  • 6 speed Manual with electronic twin-clutch control, AWD

Engine and Transmission[]

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X will be powered by the high performance engine that delivers excellent power and torque that results excellent acceleration and engine performance with better fuel efficiency. All variants of Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X will be powered by the 2.0L, 1998cc, 16-Valve, MIVEC, DOHC, Turbo engine with 6-speed manual transmission gear box that makes it a performance car. This powerful engine will produces 359bhp of maximum power at 6500 rpm with a 492Nm of maximum torque at 3500 rpm. Its powerful engine makes it able to touch the mark of 100kmph in just 4.7 seconds. Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X will be available with a four-wheel drive (4WD) option. As per the details available at Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X


Performance[]

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX yellow vr EMS

Performance for Lancer Evolution X :

Maximum power: 291 bhp @ 6500 RPM

Maximum torque: 366 Nm @ 3500 RPM

0-60 km/h: 3.2 seconds

0-80 km/h: 4.7 seconds

0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): 6.2 seconds

50-80 km/h: 2.3 seconds

60-100 km/h: 3.9 seconds

0-400 m (1/4 mile): 14.4 seconds

Stopping distance (from 80 km/h (50 mph)): 22.3 metres

Reliability[]

Automotive Information Systems reports that the latest generation of the Lancer Evolution has exhibited minimal problems in all categories reviewed, earning it an overall Green rating from the organization.

  • RECALL ALERT: On September 18, 2009, the NHTSA issued a recall alert affecting 6,903 MY2008 and MY2009 Lancer Evolution, Ralliart, and Sportback Ralliart vehicles fitted with 2.0-liter turbocharged engines due to a poorly attached batch of fuel pipes. According to the report, running the engine at certain speeds over time may cause a damaging vibration that could lead to a stress crack in the fuel pipe and fuel leakage. Dealers will be instructed to replace the fuel pipe with a new component and add two new additional attachment brackets to lessen the effects of vibration. Replacement is free of charge. Concerned owners looking for more information can call Mitsubishi's hotline at 1-888-648-7820 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 1-888-648-7820 end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 1-888-648-7820 end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 1-888-648-7820 end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 1-888-648-7820 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or the NHTSA's at 1-888-327-4236. This recall filed under NHTSA campaign ID number 09V349000. [4]

Safety[]

Although the NHTSA website lists no safety test information for the past few model year Lancer Evolutions, Consumer Reports states that "the Lancer received a Poor in the IIHS side-crash test." Some of the standard safety equipment found on the Lancer Evolution includes:

Photos[]

Evo IX[]

Evo X[]

Evo VIII[]

Main Competitors[]

Hybrid Models[]

There are no hybrid models of the Lancer Evolution in production at this time.

Unique Attributes[]

The Lancer Evolution was unique among its competitors in the World Rally Championship in that it is a homologated Group A car slightly modified to be able to race competitively against WRC class cars. They were successful in the WRC Rallies from 1996-1999, thanks to the Finn Tommi Makinen, for clinching the driver's titles from 1996-1999, and the help of teammate Richard Burns for clinching the manufacturer's championship for the first time in 1998. The Evolution however has now been replaced by the Lancer/Carisma GT and the new Lancer WRC04, but the Evo still competes in the Group A and Group N classes.

Interior[]

This section should include information on the interior's design, build quality, ergonomics, space (head and legroom, front and rear), features, stowage compartments and overall comfortability and livability. Add pictures wherever applicable and keep information in a third-person point of view.

Resale Values[]

According to Kelley Blue Book, "we also expect it to hold its value very well in the resale market—even to five years and beyond."

<MODEL> Year
Year X Year X-2 Year X-3 Year X-4
Resale Value
$ $ $ $

Criticisms[]

  • "If you don't intend on exploring the Evo's extreme limits on a regular basis, you might find its high-strung persona and compromised highway ride a bit tiresome after awhile. And if you're not interested in the drama, why pay the steep price for the ticket?" - Kelley Blue Book

Current Generation - Evolution X (2007-2015)[]

A71265a4b1ebd6f96882099360c2b3d4

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X Final Edition

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X is the tenth and final generation of the Lancer Evolution, a sports sedan produced by Japanese manufacturer Mitsubishi Motors.

The Lancer Evolution X sedan features a 4B11T 2.0L (1998cc) turbocharged, all-aluminium inline-4 GEMA engine. Power and torque depend on the market but all versions have at least 280 PS (206 kW; 276 hp). (JDM version), the American market version has slightly more. The UK models were reworked by Mitsubishi UK, in accordance with previous MR Evolutions bearing the FQ badge. Options for the UK Evolutions are 300 hp (220 kW) and 360 hp (270 kW).

Two versions of the car are offered in the U.S. The Lancer Evolution MR, with 6-speed Twin Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST). The other version is the GSR which has a 5-speed manual transmission system. The car also has a new full-time four-wheel drive system named S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control), an advanced version of Mitsubishi's AWC system used in previous generations.[4] The S-AWC uses torque vectoring technology to send different amounts of torque to the rear wheels.

It also featured Mitsubishi's new six-speed SST dual-clutch automatic transmission with steering-mounted magnesium alloy shift paddles. It has replaced the Tiptronic automatic transmission, hence the SST version replaced the GT-A version (which was used in Evolution VII and Evolution IX Wagon). A five-speed manual gearbox was also available. The Lancer Evolution also incorporated Mitsubishi's next-generation RISE safety body.

The Evolution X went on sale October 2, 2007 in Japan,[5] January 2008 in the USA,[6] February in Canada (as the first version of Evolution in Canada)[7] and by March 2008 in the UK.[8] The Twin Clutch SST version was available in Japan from November 2007.[9] Europe will follow with sales in May, GSR and MR version included premium Package. The introduction of the 2010 MR-Touring moved the car even further upscale. Leather and a Moonroof became standard while revising the rear spoiler to just a lip spoiler.

FQ-400[]

0a55b452-mitsubishi-lancer-evo-x-fq-400-1

An Image Of Both Sides Of The FQ-400

Engine rated at 409 PS (301 kW; 403 hp) at 6500 rpm torque 525 N⋅m (387 lb⋅ft) at 3500 rpm.[17] It also includes 5 speed manual transmission, six-piston brake calipers, upgraded brakes and 18-inch wheels fitted with Toyo Proxes R1R tyres (summers) or Toyo Snowprox S953 tyres (winters), a new aero kit that includes additional cooling intakes, vents, a larger air intake in the hood and ducts. An estimated 100 vehicles would be made.[18] It accelerates 0–62 mph (100 km/h) in 3.8 seconds (est.) and has an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (249 km/h). Standard equipment is comprehensive, the FQ-400 coming with Bluetooth hands-free telephone connection, a CD-tuner with 30 GB hard drive, DVD satellite navigation and privacy glass, remote central locking, automatic headlamps and rain-sensitive windscreen wipers. The FQ-400 was available for £49,999 (list price).

Previous Generations[]

Height: 1480 mm

Wheelbase: 2650 mm

Previous Generations[]

Evo IX (2005–2006)[]

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX yellow vr EMS

This Evolution (US market) includes a turbocharged 286 hp (213 kW) inline four-cylinder engine and a full-time all wheel drive powertrain. Variable valve timing is an Evolution first in 2006, coming in the form of MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve-timing-and-lift Electronic Control). Japanese-spec cars were limited by a gentleman's agreement to advertise no more than 280 PS (276 hp, 208 kW), a mark already reached by the time of Evo IV; however, each generation of Evo's power has clandestinely evolved above the advertised number, with the Japan-spec Evo IX having real output of about 320 PS, and various versions available in other markets, particularly the UK, have official power outputs up to 366 bhp. Even standard components are considered "tuned" compared to other vehicles. For instance, the flywheel on normal cars weighs about 12-15 kilograms but the Lancer flywheel weighs a mere 6 kilos for very quick engine response. Unfortunately, the Evo has also been evolving into a heavier and heavier vehicle with each generation in face of tougher worldwide safety and emission regulations.

File:2006 Lancer Evolution silveronroad.jpg

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX

Mitsubishi introduced the 2006 Lancer Evolution IX at the 2005 New York International Auto Show. The 2.0 L 4G63 engine now gets MIVEC technology (variable valve timing), boosting official power output to 286 hp (213 kW) and torque to 289 ft·lbf (392 N·m) - however actual figures are significantly higher. The Evolution 8 first offered in 2003 would produce dynamometer readings of approximately 225 WHP and 225 ft·lbf. WTQ with a flywheel power rating of 271/273 respectively. The Evolution IX typically pulls 255 WHP and 250 WTQ on a dynamometer, a difference of 30 horsepower, not even taking into consideration the drivetrain losses.

The Lancer Evolution IX models (RS,GSR,MR) vary in their performance capabilities. Subtleties unique to each model account for variations in acceleration, handling and top speed. The decontented RS is the purist's car, reaching 60 mph in a mere 4.4 seconds, compared to 4.5 for the slightly heavier IX and MR models (which have power windows, rear spoilers, and Xenon lights). Weight savings of over 60 pounds give the RS a subtly sharper handling responsiveness that helps it shave fractions of a second off the lap times of the IX and MR on an identical course. The premium price of the top-model MR is not spent in vain if speed is a priority, as the MR's 6th forward gear allows it to reach 165 mph at 7,000 rpm compared to 157 at 7,000 in 5th for the RS and middle-positioned GSR models. (Note: Data relevant to U.S. model specifications)

The IX keeps all the Evolution VIII MR goodies like Bilstein shocks, a 6-speed manual transmission, vortex generators, BBS alloy wheels, Recaro bucket seats, Brembo brakes, MOMO steering wheel, and an aluminium roof. Additional revisions from 2005 include a closer gear ratio for the 5-speed transmission, new lighter Enkei wheels on non-MR models, a redesigned front end w/c a more efficient air dam (the most noticeable feature are the two small oval ducts to cool the intercooler pipes) and new rear bumper with a diffuser undersurface to smooth out the airflow coming out of the car.

All three models were available in the US. All models used the same 286 hp (213 kW) engine. All models used a front and rear LSD (Limited Slip Differential), and an ACD (Active Center Differential).

  • Standard/GSR - revised 5-speed, standard model
  • RS - revised 5-speed, aluminium roof, gauge pack, minimal interior
  • MR - 6-speed, Bilstein monotube shocks, aluminium roof, gauge pack

Three models were also be available in Europe and Japan. Although all models used the same 286 hp (213 kW) engine, the torque differed from one model to another. The GSR produces 295 ft·lbf (400 Nm) of torque while the RS and GT produce 300 ft·lbf (407 Nm).

  • RS - revised 5-speed, aluminium roof, gauge pack, minimal interior, LSD and a titanium-magnesium turbine
  • GT - revised 5-speed, this is basically the RS mechanically, but with some of the GSR's features (mainly interior pieces).
  • GSR - 6-speed, Bilstein monotube shocks, aluminium roof, gauge pack, AYC (Active Yaw Control), and double-din radio (this is roughly equivalent to the MR)

A 2,500-piece, limited edition Evolution IX station wagon was released in Japan soon after the sedan's debut. It used the back end of the Lancer Sportback wagon grafted onto the sedan. Two trim models were be introduced: the GT with a six-speed manual transmission and the GT-A with a 5-speed automatic. Other than the station wagon back end, redesigned seats, and some small chromed trim pieces, the car's interior is the same as the sedan.

Mitsubishi also developed the Evolution MIEV, based on the Evolutions IX's chassis but with 4 electric engines connected to the four wheels as a test bed for the Mitsubishi In-wheel Electric Vehicle (MIEV) next-generation electric vehicle. The in-wheel engines use a hollow doughnut construction to locate the rotor outside the stator unlike other electric motors where the rotor turns inside the stator. The result of this is a lighter engine which translates into lower unsprung weight in a system where the engines are mounted in the wheels. Each in-wheel engine produces a power output of 68 hp, thus giving a massive combined output of 272 hp comparable to that of regular, gas powered Lancer Evolutions. The car subsequently competed in the Shikoku EV (Electric Vehicle) Rally 2005.

Frame: CT9A

File:Evolution of Evo.jpg

See Autopedia's Comprehensive Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX Review.

Eighth Generation (Evo VIII:2003-2005)[]

1280px-2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 8 2

The Evolution was changed again in 2003, this time sporting Super Active Yaw Control to handle traction and a 6-speed manual gearbox. It was available with 280 PS (276 hp/206 kW) in three trims: standard (GSR in Japan), RS (devoid of all excess components, such as the rear wing, trunk carpeting, interior map lights, power windows/doors, and radio) and MR, which came with a new vortex generator (a set of ridges above the rear window to improve aerodynamics). Both RS and MR Editions came with a revised limited-slip front differential.

The Lancer Evolution VIII MR uses slick-response Bilstein shocks for improved handling. The aluminium roof panel and other reductions in body weight have lowered the centre of gravity to realize more natural roll characteristics. Detail improvements have also been made to Mitsubishi’s own electronic all-wheel drive, to the ACD 5 + Super AYC 6 traction control and to the Sports ABS systems. The Lancer Evolution VIII displayed at the 2003 Tokyo Motor Show took the MR designation traditionally reserved for Mitsubishi Motors high-performance models and used first on the Galant GTO. Other parts on the MR include BBS alloy wheels, Recaro bucket seats, Brembo brakes, and a MOMO steering wheel

The Lancer Evolution VIII was also the first Evolution to come to the United States, spurred by the success of the Subaru Impreza WRX which had been released there just three years prior. However, the internal components for the American versions were based largely on the specifications for the Japanese Lancer Evolution VII. No US-spec Evolution has active yaw control, including the 2006 Evolution IX. The American 2003 and 2004 GSRs are without the helical limited-slip front differential and 6-speed manual transmission. The 2004 US spec RS model, however, does have a front helical limited-slip differential. All 2003, 2004 and 2005 RS and GSR models have the Japanese Evolution VII's 5-speed transmission. The MR edition was introduced to the US in 2004, the first model to sport the ACD and still (as of 2006) the only model with a 6-speed transmission. The 2005 US spec RS and GSR have the ACD standard, and the front helical limited-slip differential is now standard on all models. The timing and tuning are also slightly lower than its Japanese counterpart, allowing it to adhere to the strict emissions regulations of the United States.

Most Evolution VIIIs have a carbon fiber rear spoiler with matching body-color endplates, except for the MR Edition, whose endplates are painted black. The basic RS Edition does not come with a rear spoiler.

Frame: CT9A

Seventh Generation (Evo VII:2001-2002)[]

1280px-Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII 40239544391 cropped

The Lancer Evo VII

In 2001, Mitsubishi decided to race in the World Rally Championship (WRC) class instead of the Group A class, and thus did not need to follow homologation rules. The Evo VII was based on the larger Lancer Cedia platform and as a result gained more weight over the Evo VI, but made up for this with multiple important chassis tweaks. The biggest change was the addition of an active center differential and a more effective limited-slip differential, while a front helical limited-slip differential was added. Torque was increased again to 284 ft·lbf (385 N·m) with engine tweaks that allowed greater airflow, and horsepower officially remained at 280 PS (276 hp/206 kW). Despite its civilian appearance, the Evolution VII can outrun many more expensive cars (such as the Ferrari 360 Modena, as seen in Best Motoring videos.)

Frame: CT9A, which is the currently used frame on all Evolutions manufactored currently. However, the X has not been confirmed.

Sixth Generation (Evo VI:1999-2000)[]

The Evolution VI's changes mainly focused on cooling and engine durability. It received a larger intercooler, larger oil cooler, and new pistons, along with a titanium-aluminide turbine wheel for the RS model, which was a first in a production car. Output was rated at 280 PS (276 hp; 206 kW) at 6,500 rpm and maximum torque of 373 N⋅m (275 lb⋅ft) at 3,000 rpm.[11] The Evolution VI received new bodywork yet again, with the most easily noticeable change being within the front bumper where the huge fog lights were reduced in size and moved to the corners for better airflow. A new model was added to the GSR and RS lineup; known as the RS2, it was an RS with a few of the GSR's options. Another limited-edition RS was known as the RS Sprint, an RS tuned by Ralliart in the UK to be lighter and more powerful with 330 hp (246 kW).

Yet another special edition Evolution VI was released in December 1999: the Tommi Mäkinen Edition, named after Finnish rally driver Tommi Mäkinen who had won Mitsubishi four WRC drivers championships. It featured a different front bumper, Red/Black Recaro seats (with embossed T. Mäkinen logo), 17-inch white Enkei wheels, a leather Momo steering wheel and shift knob, a titanium turbine that spooled up more quickly, front upper strut brace, lowered ride height (with tarmac stages in mind), and a quicker steering ratio. Amongst other colours, the Evo VI came in either red (Tommi Mäkinen Edition only), white, blue, black or silver with optional special decals, replicating Tommi Mäkinen's rally car's colour scheme. This car is also sometimes referred to as an Evolution 61⁄2, Evolution 6.5, or TME for short. 4,092 units were produced in total and exterior styling was similar to that of its predecessor, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 5.

Standard models[]

  • RS – "rally sport" minimal interior, rally suspension, rear 1.5-way LSD as opposed to AYC, shortened close-ratio 5-speed transmission, optional Enkei wheels, optional Recaro Seats, optional air conditioning, optional Brembo brakes, optional power windows.
  • GSR – 5-speed, gauge pack, AYC (Active Yaw Control), anti-lock brakes, Recaro front bucket and rear seat, auto air-conditioner, double-DIN audio, power windows, Brembo brakes.

Tommi Mäkinen Edition models[]

  • RS – same as standard RS with close-ratio 5-speed transmission, lowered ride height, Tommi Mäkinen Edition front bumper, and titanium turbine (option with standard RS).
  • GSR – same as standard GSR with lowered ride height, Tommi Mäkinen Edition front bumper, Red/Black/Green Recaro seats (with embossed T. Mäkinen logo), 17-inch Enkei white wheels and titanium turbine.

Evolution V[]

Many aspects of the car were changed such as:

  • The interior was upgraded in the GSR version with a better class of Recaro seats.
  • The body kit had flared arches at the front and rear and a new aluminum rear spoiler replaced the IV FRP version and gave an adjustable angle of attack to alter rear downforce. (In process of doing so, the Evolution V onwards was no longer considered "compact" according to Japanese dimension regulations, requiring Japanese owners to pay an increased annual tax as the car was now 70 mm (2.8 in) wider than regulated limit of 1,700 mm (66.9 in)).
  • The track was widened by 10 mm (0.4 in), the wheel offset changed from ET45 to ET38 along with the wheel diameter which rose from 16 in to 17 in to accommodate Brembo brakes.
  • The brake master cylinder bore increased by 0.3 mm (0.01 in).
  • The engine was strengthened in a few areas and the cam duration was increased. The pistons were lighter with a smaller skirt area. 510 cc injectors were replaced with 560 cc injectors for better engine reliability due to more electrical "headroom" and the ECU was changed to include a flash ROM, allowing more boost pressure to the same TD05-HR as the Mitsubishi Evolution IV.

Furthermore, the turbocharger was again improved. Torque was increased to 373 N⋅m (275 lb⋅ft) at 3,000 rpm. Power officially stayed the same, at 280 PS (206 kW; 276 hp).

  • RS – "rally sport" close-ratio 5-speed transmission, minimal interior, rally suspension, 1.5-way LSD, auto air conditioner, Enkei wheels, Recaro bucket seats, Brembo brakes, power windows are available as an option).
  • GSR– 5-speed, gauge pack, AYC (Active Yaw Control), anti-lock brakes, Recaro front bucket and rear seat, auto air-conditioner, double-din audio, power windows, Brembo brakes.

Evolution IV: 1996-1997)[]

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IV GSR

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution lV GSR

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IV RS

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution lV RS

 The Lancer platform was completely changed in 1996, and along with it, the Evolution, which had become extremely popular throughout the world. The engine and transaxle were rotated 180° to better balance the weight and eliminate torque steer.

There were two versions available, the RS and GSR. The RS version was produced as a competition car with a limited-slip front differential and a friction type LSD at the rear. It also came with GLX seats and a choice of either 15" or 16" OZ lightweight racing wheels. The RS also had wind-up windows, optional air conditioning in some models, and a few extra brace bars to strengthen the chassis, one behind the front grille and another across the boot floor, and an aluminum rear strut tower brace.

The GSR and the RS shared a new twin scroll turbocharger which helped to improve response and increase power to 280 PS (206 kW; 276 hp) at 6,500 rpm and 330 N⋅m (243 lb⋅ft) torque at 4,000 rpm. Mitsubishi's new Active Yaw Control appeared as a factory standard on the GSR model, which used steering, throttle input sensors and g sensors to computer-hydraulically control torque split individually to the rear wheels and as a result, the 10,000 Evolution IVs produced all sold quickly.

The Evolution IV can be distinguished by its two large fog lights in the front bumper (option on RS version), and the newly designed tail lights on the rear, which became a standard design to Evolution V, which would become yet another trademark of the Evolution series, note the RS has no light mounts on the boot/trunk for further weight saving. This new generation was slightly heavier than previous Evo's—the GSR in particular due to the added technology systems—but to counter this, the car produced even more power—the weight of the RS being 1,260 kg (2,778 lb) and the GSR being 1,345 kg (2,965 lb) (Sunroof model 1,370 kg (3,020 lb)).

Much of the technical improvements for this generation were also used in the second generation Mitsubishi RVR originally sold only in Japan but since exported to Australia and New Zealand. The Evolution IV was the last model to be considered "compact" according to Japanese dimension regulations.

  • RS – "Rally Sport" – Shortened close-ratio 5-speed transmission, minimal interior, front worm gear LSD and rear 1.5-way LSD, front end crossbar, 15-inch steel rims, Lancer GLXi Front Seats (non-bucket seats), manual windows and mirrors. (Optional: manual air conditioning, PIAA front fog lights, anti-lock brakes, Lamco-Mitsubishi boost gauge.)
  • GSR – "Gran Sport Racing" – 5-speed manual transmission, AYC (Active Yaw Control), anti-lock brakes, black-red Recaro front bucket seats, full auto air conditioner, double-din audio with rear windscreen integrated antenna, PIAA front fog lights, power windows, 16-inch OZ Racing F1 wheels, rear windscreen wiper, optional: sunroof, Lamco-Mitsubishi boost gauge.

Third Generation (Evo III:1995)[]

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution III Jackie Chan Edition

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution lll That Appeared In Jackie Chan's 'Thunderbolt'

19691231 170000 5082064521043840118

February 1995 saw the arrival of the Evolution III, following a pre-release in 1993 which had several improvements over the previous models. New, more aggressive styling and a new nose moulding improved the air supply to the radiator, intercooler and brakes. New side skirts and rear bumper moldings and a larger rear spoiler were added to reduce lift. The engine was improved and had a higher compression ratio than before, and a new turbocharger compressor (65 mm to 68 mm), which resulted in a power output of 270 bhp (201 kW) at 6,250 rpm, 309 N⋅m (228 lb⋅ft) at 3,000 rpm.

An Evolution III was used in the film Initial D as the car driven by Jordan Chan's character. He drove a black Evolution 3 and also Evolution III was used in the film Thunderbolt as the car driven by Jackie Chan's character. He drove a yellow Evolution 3 which was lightly modified performance-wise but heavily modified when it comes to the aesthetics.

Evolution II[]

The Evolution II was upgraded in December 1993, and was produced until February 1995. It mainly consisted of handling improvements, including minor wheelbase adjustments, lighter front swaybar that connected via swaybar links to the front struts, bodywork tweaks including a larger spoiler, and tires that were 10 mm (0.4 in) wider. This Evolution also has a 50 L (13.2 US gal; 11.0 imp gal) fuel tank. Power output was increased to 256 PS (188 kW; 252 hp) from the same engine and torque was unchanged for both GSR and RS models. Most cars came with 15-inch OZ 5-spoke wheels from the factory, although some RS models sold to privateer racing teams left the factory with steel wheels.

First Generation (Evo I:1992)[]

The first Lancer Evolution used the 2.0 L turbocharged DOHC engine and AWD drivetrain from the original Galant VR-4 in a Lancer chassis, and was sold in GSR and RS models. This engine was also used in the Mitsubishi RVR with the Hyper Sports Gear trim package, and the Mitsubishi Chariot Resort Runner GT. The RS was a stripped-down version that lacked power windows and seats, anti-lock brakes, a rear wiper, and had steel wheels to weigh approximately 70 kg (154 lb) less than the 1,238 kg (2,729 lb) GSR, ready for racing or tuning. The RS version was released with a mechanical plate type rear limited-slip differential (LSD). The GSR came with all of the conveniences of a typical street car, including a digital screen climate control system. It came with Mitsubishi's 4G63 engine producing 247 PS (182 kW; 244 hp) at 6,000 rpm and 309 N⋅m (228 lb⋅ft) at 3,000 rpm.[4] 5,000 of the first generation Evolutions were sold between 1992 and 1993.[5] Top speed was 228 km/h (142 mph). The GSR version of the Evolution I was the only Evolution Lancer released with a viscous limited-slip rear differential (VLSD). The subsequent Evolution Lancer models all featured rear mechanical plate type LSD's.[5]

Origins[]

The Evo was originally intended only for Japanese markets but demand on the 'grey import' market led the Evolution series to be offered through limited type-approval in the United Kingdom and in various European markets from around 1998 (Evo V-VI). Mitsubishi decided to export the eighth generation Evolution to the United States in 2003 after witnessing the success Subaru had in that market with their Impreza WRX, a direct competitor in other global regions.

Concept X Rally[]


Worldwide[]

In some European markets, the Evo was sold as the Mitsubishi Carisma Evolution. Proton Motors of Malaysia races an Evolution VII as the Proton Pert in various APAC rally series.

In the United Kingdom, many special Evolutions were introduced, which included FQ320, FQ340, and FQ400 variants (FQ said jocularly to stand for 'Fucking Quick'). They each came with 320, 340, and 400 hp (239, 254, and 298 kW), respectively.

The FQ400, sold through Ralliart UK, produces 302.13 kW (405.2 hp), from its 2.0 L 4G63 engine as the result of being specially modified by United Kingdom tuning firms Rampage, Owen Developments and Flow Race Engines. At 202.9 hp (151.3 kW) per litre, it has one of the highest specific output per litre of any roadcar engine. With a curb weight of around 3200 lb, it achieves a 0-60 in 3.5 seconds and a 0-100 in around 9 seconds, while costing about £47,000. BBC's television series Top Gear demonstrated that the FQ-400 could easily keep up with a Lamborghini Murcielago around a test track. The Stig recorded a Top Gear Power Lap Times of 1 minute 24.8 seconds.

Design quirks and oddities[]

Evolution models have been featured in films including Jackie Chan's Thunderbolt (Lancer Evolution III), Who Am I? (Lancer Evolution IV), 2 Fast 2 Furious (Lancer Evolution VII (Mustard Yellow Street Options)), The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift (Lancer Evolution IX (tuned)), Taxi 2 (Lancer Evolution IV and V) and Taxi 3 (Lancer Evolution VII (interceptor)), Legend of Speed (Lancer Evolution III and IV), Legend of Speed 2 (Lancer Evolution V), the Japanese anime and live-action hit Initial D (Lancer Evolution III, IV, V and VI TME) and the manga Wangan Midnight (Lancer Evolution V and VI).

The cars is also featured in many computer racing games including the popular driving simulator Gran Turismo, with Gran Turismo 4 featuring over 20 variants, including racing models. EA's Need for Speed: Underground 2 and Need for Speed: Most Wanted featured the Evolution VIII, And the upcoming Need for Speed: Carbon features the Evolution IX. Rockstar Games' Midnight Club 3 also has the Evolution VIII. Taito's Battle Gear series, featured the Evos III-VIII, and also comes with Tuned versions of Evo III and IV from Initial D racers. The Evos often featured in several racing games imported from Japan, such as Kaido Battle series, Altus' Touge Max series, and Tokyo Xtreme Racer series and many more. The cars also became ubiquitous in the import racing Scene.

The Evo is also featured in the movie: Fast and the Furious Tokyo Drift. It is driven by the main character.

Discontinuation[]

Mitsubishi stated that the Lancer Evolution would cease by end of March 2016, and the car-maker has chosen to focus on vehicles that incorporate electric technology. A "Final Edition" will be offered with special production number badges.

Awards[]

None

See also[]


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Smallwikipedialogo.png This page uses some content from Wikipedia. The original article was at Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. The list of authors can be seen in the page history. As with Autopedia, the text of Wikipedia is available under the GNU Free Documentation License.


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