Full Review of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Series

 

Full Review of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Series

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, often referred to simply as the Mitsubishi Evo, has built a legendary reputation in the automotive world. With its roots firmly planted in rally racing, the Evo series has evolved over the years, balancing cutting-edge technology, blistering performance, and razor-sharp handling. Mitsubishi’s Lancer Evolution line consists of a total of 10 generations, each offering improvements in various aspects, but all of them staying true to their performance-driven DNA. Below is a full review of each generation, from the first Evolution to the final Evolution X.

1. Lancer Evolution I (1992-1994)


The Evolution I was the beginning of Mitsubishi’s ambitious plan to conquer the world of rally racing with a homologated version of their standard Lancer sedan. Designed to meet Group A rally regulations, the Evo I was born out of necessity rather than mass-market appeal. It utilized a turbocharged 2.0L 4G63 engine producing 182 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque.

  • Key Features:

    • AWD system was a standout feature, derived from rally technology.
    • Lightweight, no-frills design aimed at making a perfect rally weapon.
    • Basic, functional interior without luxury features.

  • Performance: On the road, the Evo I was a rough but thrilling ride. Its handling was sharp, but the suspension was stiff, making it more suited to rally stages than daily driving. However, the all-wheel-drive system and turbocharged engine made it capable of impressive acceleration and cornering.

  • Legacy: As the first Evo, the Evolution I was never sold widely outside of Japan, but it was a crucial part of Mitsubishi’s success in motorsports, specifically rallying. Its homologation for rally use laid the groundwork for future generations.

2. Lancer Evolution II (1994-1995)



The Evolution II continued where the Evo I left off, refining the recipe with more power, better aerodynamics, and enhanced rally capabilities. The 2.0L 4G63 engine now produced 190 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque.

  • Key Features:

    • Slightly wider body for better aerodynamics and handling.
    • Improved turbocharging system.
    • Increased stability with a more rigid chassis and updated suspension.

  • Performance: The Evo II felt more refined compared to the Evo I, with better overall stability and handling on both gravel and tarmac. It remained a pure driver’s car, with raw power and exceptional cornering ability, though it still had the stiff, rally-like suspension.

  • Legacy: The Evo II was another step forward for Mitsubishi in terms of rally dominance. It also paved the way for further improvements in performance, influencing the direction of the subsequent Evolutions.

3. Lancer Evolution III (1995-1996)


The Evolution III took the Evo concept even further, upping the performance ante with 240 hp and 224 lb-ft of torque. The body was redesigned with better aerodynamics, including a larger front grille and redesigned rear wing.

  • Key Features:

    • Larger turbocharger and more efficient intercooler for better airflow.
    • New rear wing for improved stability at higher speeds.
    • Tweaked suspension for better high-speed handling and cornering.

  • Performance: The Evo III was a significant step up in performance, especially in rally stages. The power boost made it more competitive, and its handling capabilities were further refined. The Evo III also benefited from the introduction of the Active Yaw Control (AYC) system in some variants, which provided better torque distribution for enhanced cornering.

  • Legacy: The Evo III won several international rally titles and became a true performance icon. It’s often regarded as one of the best handling cars of its time, and its reputation in motorsport continued to bolster the Evo brand.

4. Lancer Evolution IV (1996-1998)


With the Evolution IV, Mitsubishi introduced a major redesign. The Evo IV featured a wider body and a longer wheelbase, providing a more stable platform at higher speeds. The 2.0L turbocharged engine produced 280 hp and 274 lb-ft of torque.

  • Key Features:

    • New platform with a wider track and longer wheelbase.
    • Enhanced Active Yaw Control (AYC) system for better torque distribution.
    • Larger turbocharger and improved intercooling system.

  • Performance: The Evo IV was a performance car designed for both tarmac and gravel stages, and it excelled in both. The longer wheelbase improved stability at high speeds, and the increased power and AYC system made it a force to be reckoned with in motorsport. The Evo IV also introduced the use of Aluminum wheels for weight reduction.

  • Legacy: The Evo IV marked a new era for the Lancer Evolution. It was a refined, race-ready machine that cemented Mitsubishi’s position as a leader in rallying.

5. Lancer Evolution V (1998-1999)



The Evo V introduced a more aggressive design and further improvements to its handling capabilities. The body was again redesigned with wider wheel arches to accommodate larger tires for better grip. Power remained at 280 hp, but the handling and performance were vastly improved.

  • Key Features:

    • Revised suspension and new aerodynamics for improved high-speed stability.
    • Upgraded turbocharging system for better throttle response.
    • Stronger chassis to handle the increased performance.

  • Performance: The Evo V was even more agile and responsive than its predecessors. It excelled in tight corners and had an even more refined, razor-sharp steering feel. The Evo V also benefited from a more aggressive rear spoiler that helped with downforce at high speeds.

  • Legacy: The Evo V became a benchmark in terms of handling and design. It solidified the Evo as a top contender in international rally events and remains a fan favorite due to its perfect balance of power and handling.

6. Lancer Evolution VI (1999-2001)


The Evo VI is often considered the pinnacle of the classic Evolution models, featuring tweaks and enhancements that made it more refined and focused. The engine continued to make 280 hp, but the car's handling and stability were taken to the next level.

  • Key Features:

    • Revised suspension for even sharper handling.
    • Lighter weight and stiffer chassis for improved rigidity and performance.
    • Aggressive styling with a focus on aerodynamics and downforce.

  • Performance: The Evo VI was an absolute monster on the road. It had an incredible grip level, with power delivery that felt both linear and explosive. The suspension was finely tuned to provide a perfect balance between comfort and track-ready stiffness.

  • Legacy: The Evo VI is highly regarded by enthusiasts as one of the best handling cars ever produced, thanks in large part to Tommi Mäkinen’s influence. It was the last Evolution model developed under the direct guidance of Mitsubishi’s rally legends and is remembered as a true hero car.

7. Lancer Evolution VII (2001-2003)



The Evo VII marked a new chapter, as Mitsubishi began to focus on creating a version that could be marketed worldwide. While the power stayed at 280 hp, the Evo VII was made more user-friendly and comfortable, with improvements in interior design and refinement.

  • Key Features:

    • New Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system for better traction and control.
    • Improved interior, with more luxury features and a quieter cabin.
    • Better crash safety with reinforced body structure.

  • Performance: Despite its refinements, the Evo VII was still a brutal performer. The S-AWC system was a significant upgrade to the AWD system, offering superior handling and cornering dynamics. The Evo VII was capable of effortlessly tackling both tight corners and high-speed straights.

  • Legacy: The Evo VII was the first model to be sold widely outside Japan, and it is regarded as a milestone in the Evo’s international appeal. Its combination of power, handling, and comfort made it a standout in the performance sedan market.

8. Lancer Evolution VIII (2003-2005)


The Evo VIII took everything that made the Evo VII great and refined it further. With an increased focus on balance and overall driving experience, it delivered 286 hp while maintaining the Evo's sharp, race-inspired handling.

  • Key Features:

    • Refined turbocharging system and better engine management.
    • Lighter weight with a focus on track performance.
    • Introduction of the Evo VIII MR version for enthusiasts seeking a more track-focused ride.

  • Performance: The Evo VIII was an absolute blast to drive, with excellent throttle response, sharp steering, and an even more refined handling balance. Its lightweight and rigid body allowed for incredible cornering, making it an ideal car for enthusiasts who enjoyed pushing it to its limits.

  • Legacy: The Evo VIII is often viewed as the ultimate expression of the Evo’s street-performance capabilities, thanks to its performance, balance, and excitement. It remains one of the most beloved models in the Evo series.

9. Lancer Evolution IX (2005-2007)

The Evo IX was another incremental improvement, with subtle tweaks to the turbo system, handling, and interior comfort. The power output stayed at 286 hp, but the driving dynamics were enhanced with a more refined chassis and suspension setup.

  • Key Features:

    • Refined AYC system and suspension for better high-speed stability.
    • Slightly upgraded interior materials for added comfort.
    • Introduction of the FQ-400 variant with a focus on high-performance tuning.

  • Performance: The Evo IX remained true to its roots with a brutally fast engine and razor-sharp handling. Its chassis was even stiffer, and the handling was more precise, making it an absolute joy on the track.

  • Legacy: The Evo IX is often regarded as one of the last "pure" Evolutions before the shift to more modern, electronic systems. It was a fan favorite and offered one of the best driving experiences in the Evo lineup.

10. Lancer Evolution X (2008-2015)


The Evolution X was the final chapter in the Evo saga, bringing with it a host of modern upgrades. It featured a new 2.0L turbocharged engine producing 291 hp, coupled with a more refined Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system and better electronics overall.

  • Key Features:

    • Modern interior with advanced features like touch-screen infotainment.
    • S-AWC system for dynamic torque distribution and improved stability.
    • Refined exterior styling with aggressive, but more aerodynamic lines.

  • Performance: The Evo X was a step toward more modern, refined performance, with incredible handling and a smooth, controlled driving experience. The advanced AWD system allowed it to maintain grip in virtually any condition, while the engine provided a satisfying amount of power with every press of the throttle.

  • Legacy: Although the Evo X was the last of its kind, it left an indelible mark as the culmination of Mitsubishi’s performance sedan lineage. It represented the perfect balance between modern tech, everyday usability, and old-school rally-inspired thrills.

Final Thoughts:

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution series is one of the most revered performance car lineups in history. Each generation evolved with the times, introducing cutting-edge technologies and performance upgrades while retaining the pure, raw excitement that made the Evo legendary. From the aggressive early models built for rallying to the more refined, high-tech Evo X, the Lancer Evolution remains a symbol of Mitsubishi’s motorsport legacy and its unrelenting pursuit of driving perfection.

While production of the Evo ended in 2015, the legacy of these iconic cars lives on. They’ve inspired countless car enthusiasts, racers, and tuners worldwide, and the Evo will always be remembered as one of the greatest performance sedans to ever hit the road.

Σχόλια

Δημοσίευση σχολίου

Δημοφιλείς αναρτήσεις από αυτό το ιστολόγιο

DS7 CROSSBACK

Εικόνα
  DS7 CROSSBACK     1. Design and Exterior The DS 7 Crossback presents a distinctive design that stands out in the luxury SUV market. It's characterized by:   Bold front grille: The front fascia features a large, chrome-accented grille, giving it a commanding presence on the road. LED headlights and signature DS LED light clusters: The vehicle boasts unique lighting elements that create an elegant, modern look. Sculpted lines: The side profile is sleek and sophisticated, with sculpted curves that enhance aerodynamics. Crossover proportions: With its compact SUV stance, it offers a blend of city-friendly size and off-road capability. Dimensions: Length: 4,570 mm (179.9 inches) Width: 1,890 mm (74.4 inches) Height: 1,625 mm (64 inches) The DS 7 Crossback offers a refined and distinctive exterior that blends French elegance with modern SUV design elements.   2. Interior and Features Inside, the DS 7 Crossback excels in luxury and c...
Διαβάστε περισσότερα

The Opel Astra evolution

Εικόνα
 The Opel Astra is a compact car manufactured by the German automaker Opel, a subsidiary of Stellantis. Over the years, the Astra has gone through several generations, evolving in terms of design, performance, and technology. Here's an overview of each generation: 1. Opel Astra F (1991–1998) Introduction : The Astra F replaced the Opel Kadett and was launched in 1991. Design : It featured a more rounded design compared to its predecessor, the Kadett. It was available in various body styles, including a 3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback, sedan, and wagon. Technology : It introduced features such as airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS), with a focus on safety. Engines : The range included small and medium-sized engines, with both gasoline and diesel options. Notable : The Astra F was well received in Europe and was a major success for Opel, becoming one of the best-selling compact cars in Europe during the 1990s. 2. Opel Astra G (1998–2009) Introduction : The Astra G debuted in 1998 ...
Διαβάστε περισσότερα