2015 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo will be the last
Made famous by its excellent rally credentials, Mitsubishi’s Lancer Evolution is having its last hurrah. Since the sporty sedan made an entrance in 1992, each model, from Evo I to X, has boasted a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol mill that delivers power to all-four wheels via Mitsubishi’s all-wheel drive system.
The 2015 edition of the street-legal rally sedan gets a few creature comforts while retaining the same engine and transmission options. You can finally have heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals and a new cup holder with a lid!
In all seriousness, the Lancer Evolution GSR trim is offered with a new Premium Package which includes the ‘Sight and Sound Package’ (HID headlights, 710-watt, nine-speaker Rockford Fosgate audio system with a subwoofer, and a keyless entry system), leather-covered heated front seats, a powered moonroof, piano black console trim, and improved sound dampening.
Most won’t be buying a Lancer Evolution X for its moonroof, however. What customers want, is the four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine making 291bhp at 6500rpm and 407Nm of peak torque between 3000–4400rpm. The Evolution GSR’s engine will be mated to a five-speed manual transmission while the Evolution MR will sport a six-speed dual-clutch transmission with four driving modes. Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) all-wheel-drive system is aided by Active Yaw Control (AYC), Active Stability Control (ASC), Active Centre Differential (ACD), and Sport Anti-lock Braking (ABS) in addition to three selectable traction settings (Tarmac, Gravel, Snow) for various driving conditions. A 0–100kmph time of under 5.5 seconds won’t be out of place.
The rally-bred sedan will come with some serious stopping power courtesy of Brembo brakes with four-piston callipers, 350mm discs up front and two-piston callipers on 330mm discs at the rear. The 18-inch Enkei alloy wheels are shod in grippy 245/40 R18 Yokohama Advan tyres.
With production of this iconic car coming to an end, we’re set to lose yet another storied, beastly machine that will no doubt remain a fond memory of insane times past. So go forth and buy the new Subaru Impreza WRX STi before they shut that down too.
