The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution broke onto the scene in 1992 to great reception for its high-performance sports car abilities. Known commonly as the EVO by its huge following, the car defined an era of rallying, car tuning and car modification like no other.
In a statement earlier this year, Mitsubishi announced an end to the manufacturing of the legendary model, with no plans to introduce a successor. Let’s look at some of the highlights of this iconic machine throughout the years.
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution was one of many cars in the early 90s that were targeted at bringing all of the thrills and excitement of a sports car to the general public. With a retail price that fitted in with many similar 4-door sedans, the EVO bridged the gap between much more expensive performance sedans found in Europe with the exciting new look and feel of the growing tuning movement in Japan.
From Humble Beginnings, a Legend is Born
The Mitsubishi EVO started out as a highly tuned version of Mitsubishi’s Galant VR-4 model with its turbocharged 20.L engine and AWD drive train making the grade. Available in both GSR and RS variants, with the latter being stripped of many features including electric windows, anti-lock brakes, and steel wheels to make it 70KG lighter than its counterpart.
The evolution continued along its successful stint as an affordable performance car, with entry into the world rally championship to prove its worthiness as a true performance beast. With multiple championships came an even greater following in the tuning and car modification market to create an icon in the making throughout the rest of the world.
Revolutionary Improvements to a Classic Chassis
With the introduction of the EVO IV, the brand, image and iconic nature of the Mitsubishi car had firmly tightened its grip amongst motoring enthusiasts. Mitsubishi introduced a number of technological improvements in the car, including an active YAW control, a two different LSD units, an 180-degree turn of the engine to give greater balance to the vehicle, as well as improving power throughout the car.
The Affordable Supercar for the Masses
With the introduction of the EVO VIII Mitsubishi really found its target audience. Sales of the car were at an all-time high, and models were quickly being sold out as soon as production was complete.
With more changes made to increase the power of the engine, finely tuned brake systems, a suspension overhaul and improved aerodynamic and weight differences meant the new EVO VIII had delved into the realm of supercar speeds.
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X is the tenth and final installment of the most popular and iconic cars of the past decade. A fitting tribute to one of the most talked about cars in the rallying scene, and a true legend when it comes to tuning and “modding”. The final installment of the EVO legend may have come to an end, but the legend will continue for years to come.
