Mitsubishi Evolution

Mitsubishi has released the first official pictures of the forthcoming Lancer Evolution X. The design is based on the concept unveiled at the 2007 Detroit Motor Show.

From the official Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X Press Release:

Distinguishing features of the Lancer lineup include a high-rigidity platform that delivers excellent crashworthiness.

The Lancer Evolution X model features Mitsubishi’s S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) traction and handling system, that integrates the control of drive torque and braking management with the four-wheel drive system to improve both handling and stability.

The new lightweight 2.0-liter turbocharged MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing) engine has an aluminum cylinder block and a 6-speed automated manual transmission.

The cockpit design is focused on the driver.

Car Hall Of Fame: Mitsubishi Evolution

The first induction was a shoe-in: the Mitsubishi Evolution.

There is a reason that this is the first car we plan on talking about – The Evolution was by far, hands down, the best all around bang for your buck in its prime from 2003-2006 (Evolution VIII & IX). This car, with its price tag of around $30,000 USD, was the best performance you could get out of a stock car, not to mention all of the aftermarket performance sellers who saw the possibilities with the Evolution.

Equipped with all-wheel-drive, the Evo, along with the Subaru WRX STi, collectively set a new standard for all around automotive performance. Sure the usual American muscle cars can offer great pricing on performance, but the Mitsubishi and it’s cousin are more than just “straight-line” cars. The Evolution put down jaw dropping numbers – tested stock when it came to slalom, braking, g-pad, and track lap times.

The sad news is that after 2006 Mitsubishi decided that it was time to revamp the Evolution for the tenth time. It could have been worse: Subaru decided that they would revamp the WRX STi, and decided that people should not have to choose whether they want a hatchback or not. Subaru felt it neccessary to make that decision for you. In 2008 ( and hopefully only 2008 ) the WRX STi will only be offered in the hatchback style. The Evolution X wins 2008 by default. Here it is: The Mitsubishi Evolution X

Some people like the X better than the VIII or IX. We are not those people. Based on looks alone the X is nowhere near where the 8’s or 9’s were. Also the X is slightly heavier and a tad slower. This is not the end of the Evolution by any means, but as for us – we’ll stick with the golden age (2003-2006)