As the name implies, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X is the 10th evolution of the Japanese automaker's high-performance sedan, dating back to its inception in 1992. If extreme performance at the cost of comfort and economy don't sound good to you, consider the Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart.
The Evo X is offered in two trim levels. The entry-level GSR is offered with a five-speed manual transmission, Recaro Sport seats and Enkei wheels, as well as optional spoiler, HID headlights, and upgraded sound system.
The upgraded MR includes Mitsubishi's new Twin Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST), Eibach springs and Bilstein shock absorbers, lightweight brake rotors and BBS forged-alloy wheels, and extra sound insulation, as well as optional navigation, upgraded audio with Sirius Satellite reception, and leather seats.
Both trim levels feature the new all-aluminum 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder MIVEC4 motor producing 295 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque and Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) drive system.
The S-AWC system, which regulates torque and braking at each wheel includes a bevy of acronyms: ASC (Active Stability Control), ACD (Active Center Differential), AYC (Active Yaw Control) and Sport ABS, an ABS system designed for aggressive driving. The biggest difference over the outgoing car is the large number of yaw sensors included in the system, all designed to keep the Evo X on its intended path. The S-AWC system can be set for three different road surfaces: tarmac (standard), ice and gravel
The Twin Clutch SST on the MR appears similar to Audi/VW's DSG system; even and odd gears are on separate clutches for rapid-fire shifting and no torque loss between gears. Shifting of the TC-SST is controlled by alloy paddles on the steering wheel or the gear shift lever when in manual mode, and by the engine computer in automatic mode. The system has three modes: Normal, Sport and S-Sport, the latter providing the most aggressive, fast shifts.
Safety measures include the Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) unibody system to disperse energy in front and side impact collisions and protect the fuel system from rear impact, and front and side impact air bags, plus a driver's knee air bag.
Key competitors
Without a doubt, the long-term rival Subaru Impreza WRX STI Hatchback is the biggest competitor for the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, but the Mazda Mazdaspeed3 and new Ford Focus ST are strong competitors as well, although they forgo all-wheel drive for front-wheel drive.
Without a doubt, the long-term rival Subaru Impreza WRX STI Hatchback is the biggest competitor for the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, but the Mazda Mazdaspeed3 and new Ford Focus ST are strong competitors as well, although they forgo all-wheel drive for front-wheel drive.
