2005 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Overview

Introduction

The Lancer Evolution is a four-wheel-drive turbocharged performance four-door based on Mitsubishi's successful World Rally Championship cars.

Three models of the Lancer Evolution are available, the Evo RS, Evo VIII, and Evo MR. All come with a 271-horsepower turbocharged engine, four-wheel drive and a sports suspension. Practically ready to race, the Evos benefit from stiffened body structures. All are fitted with a special front fascia, a big rear wing, and a rear-window wiper, plus sports seats and special interior features. The Evo RS comes with 17-inch Enkei wheels and high-grip P235/45WR17 Yokohama Advan tires. In addition to the features on the Evo RS, the Evo VIII gets an active center differential switch and Brembo brakes with sport ABS and EBD, plus more convenience features. The MR Edition adds a six-speed close-ratio gearbox, 17-inch BBS forged wheels and other features.

New for 2005 is an Evo MR named after the home-market club racing sedan Mitsubishi introduced in 1970.

The Evolution feels like a competition car even when cruising. This is a serious sports car with few compromises made to water down its performance.

Three models of the Lancer Evolution are available, the Evo RS, Evo IX, and Evo MR. All come with a 286-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, four-wheel drive and a sports suspension. The regular and RS models use a five-speed manual transmission and the MR uses a six-speed manual. Practically ready to race, the Evos benefit from stiffened body structures. All are fitted with a special front fascia and a rear-window wiper, plus sports seats and special interior features. The Evo RS comes with 17-inch Enkei wheels and high-grip P235/45WR17 Yokohama Advan tires. In addition to the features on the Evo RS, the Evo VIII gets an active center differential switch and Brembo brakes with sport ABS and EBD, plus more convenience features. The MR Edition adds the six-speed close-ratio gearbox, 17-inch BBS forged wheels and other features.

For 2006, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution gets a more powerful engine, changes its trims, and small exterior changes.

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution combines performance, curves, creases and angles into an attractive compact sedan.

The all-wheel drive Lancer Evolution has two trims: the Evolution GSR and the Evolution MR. Both trims are powered by a 291-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The GSR receives a five-speed manual transmission while the MR is teamed with a six-speed, twin-clutch automated manual with steering wheel paddle shifters. The GSR's performance is characterized by a sport-tuned suspension, Brembo disc brakes and 18-inch alloy wheels with performance tires. The MR adds Eibach springs, Bilstein shocks, and forged alloy wheels. Standard safety features include four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, seven airbags and electronic traction and stability control.

The 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is new and highlights Lancer's 10th generation.

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is a modified version of the Lancer, built for the compact sports sedan enthusiast. It showcases dynamic handling, performance-oriented technologies and more aggressive styling.

The all-wheel drive Lancer Evolution is offered in three trim levels: GSR, MR and MR Touring. All trims are powered by a muscular 291-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The GSR gets a five-speed manual transmission, while the MR and MR Touring are paired to a six-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift transmission (TC-SST) with manual mode and paddle shifters. The GSR's performance credentials are characterized by a large rear wing spoiler, sport-tuned suspension, Brembo disc brakes and 18-inch alloy wheels with performance tires, while the MR is further outfitted with Eibach springs, Bilstein shocks, and exclusive forged alloy wheels. Additional standard equipment on both trims includes sport seats, automatic climate control, Bluetooth wireless connectivity and an auxiliary audio input jack. The MR also gets HID headlamps, leather and simulated suede seating surfaces, satellite radio, a 6-disc CD changer and FAST-key passive entry system, while the MR Touring adds a power sunroof, heated exterior mirrors, leather upholstery and heated front seats. Standard safety features on every Lancer Evolution include stability and traction control systems, 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, active anti-whiplash front head restraints and a tire pressure monitor, along with front, front side-impact, overhead curtain and driver?s side knee airbags.

After a one-year hiatus, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution returns for 2010 with refreshed exterior and interior styling, as well as a new MR Touring trim.