The Lancer Evolution has long been Mitsubishi’s flagship performance model. Originally designed as the
base vehicle for homoglation requirements in Mitsubishi’s Group N rallying campaign, each new model
often incorporates developments learned from competition through the prior season. The EVO IX model
is no different in that regard, however it also picks up some improvements that help make it a better road
car as well.
The body shape and brake package basically carry over from the VII-VIII models, however the biggest
addition over the outgoing VIII model is the addition of Mivec variable inlet valve timing on the engine.
Primarily fitted to help the engine meet emissions requirements, its configuration can also be altered for
notably better performance (more on this later though!). Further improvements in this model included:
- New 6 speed manual transmission, up from 5 speed transmission on the outgoing model. While
quite a good gearbox and able to handle a fair bit of punishment, please note that it is NOT
bulletproof as some would believe..!
-Claimed 0-100kph time is now 5.7 sec compared to 6.1 sec for the outgoing model with in gear
acceleration also noticeably quicker (partially due to engine performance improvements, partially
due to better gearing as a result of the extra gear ratio).
- New external aero package to reduce drag and front end lift, and improve downforce.
- 60kg reduction in weight (aluminium roof, lighter side intrusion bars and lighter wheels have been
fitted, among other things).
- Better turbocharger with revised exhaust housing for improved flow and better response.
- Quoted fuel consumption by Mitsubishi drops from 10.9L/100km with the EVO VIII down to
10.0L/100km with the new EVO IX (however it must be said, few people achieve this figure!).
Both on road and on track, the EVO IX is a great all round package. As a starting point it is pretty good,
but modified, it only gets better… ;-P
