2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X

Faster, But Not As Furious

The redesigned Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is quicker and more refined than before, but has it gotten too civilized?

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is the rally-inspired version of the company's Lancer economy car. It packs a strong turbocharged engine in a compact package, making it quite fast. The "Evo," as it's called, has grown up recently, and its raw performance has been refined to make it more functional for daily driving.

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The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is available in GSR and MR versions. Its turbocharged 2.0-liter four cylinder engine generates nearly 300 horsepower. A five-speed close-ratio manual gearbox is standard on the GSR trim level with a six-speed dual-clutch sequential-shift transmission coming exclusively in the top-performing MR model; it can either operate in automatic mode or be taken through the gears manually via magnesium steering wheel-mounted paddles.

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Riding on a longer wheelbase and a wider track with better front-to-rear weight distribution for added handling prowess, the current Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution includes a long list of chassis control features for added stability. Its Super-All Wheel Control dynamic handling all-wheel-drive system incorporates an Active Center Differential, Active Yaw Control rear differential a limited-slip front differential, and Active Stability Control to send the proper amount of power to each wheel for maximum grip and control across a wide range of conditions and driving situations.

The current Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution’s lightweight aluminum suspension delivers a less tumultuous ride than in past models, which Mitsubishi says makes it more amenable as a daily driver. Those who pine for flat-out aggressiveness and are willing to sacrifice ride quality will want to choose the MR version, which offers assorted handling upgrades. These include heavy-duty shock absorbers, springs, and enhanced two-piece brake rotors. Oversized 18-inch wheels and tires are standard across the line, with the MR adding BBS forged alloy wheels.

• Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Summary

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is visually distinguished from the rest of the Lancer sedan lineup primarily in its bolder front-end styling that incorporates large chrome air intakes and engine heat outlets with a sharply sloping hood. An oversized rear spoiler is standard on the MR and optional on the GSR.

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Inside, heavily bolstered Recaro sport seats integrate side-impact airbags; head curtain airbags for both rows of seats and a knee-height airbag for the driver are also included. Both versions of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution offer a long list of standard amenities, with noteworthy options including a premium Rockford Fosgate audio system, a navigation system with hard-disk digital audio storage, and a keyless entry/start system.