Near-production Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X unveiled

Posted Thu Apr 26 2007 6:33 AM by Viknesh Vijayenthiran

Mitsubishi has revealed images of a near-production version of the all-new Lancer Evolution X high performance sedan. Looking almost identical to the Concept X and Prototype X vehicles rolled out at 2005’s Tokyo and 2007’s Detroit Auto Shows, the new Evo is set to turn the performance market on its head with its aggressive styling and giant-killing potential. The actual production car will be 99% similar to this model and will be shown at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September.

The new model features Mitsubishi's S-AWC traction and handling system. The latest generation AWD system integrates improved torque distribution and braking management, which allows for more responsive handling and a greater degree of control and stability.

Other features include a new lightweight version of the venerable 2.0L turbo mill with MIVEC3 valve control plus an aluminum cylinder block. Drive is sent to all four wheels via a new six-speed automated manual transmission that offers faster gear changes and improved fuel-economy over the previous generation’s conventional manual box.

For the first time in the model’s history, Mitsubishi will be releasing the car outside of Japan initially with the launch scheduled for the first quarter of next year in North America. The new Evo can’t come soon enough. Two of our writers are already sold and we’re sure there are a lot of similar stories all around the world.

Gallery after the jump.

[Via Auto Motor & Sport Sweden]

Reader Comments

Thu Apr 26 2007 8:13 AM
jontam says

Front and side look awesome, not really a fan of the tail lights though.
Actually, from many aspects it looks a lot like the R34 Skyline ? Maybe thats just me
Thu Apr 26 2007 12:53 PM
biturbo says

Just loose that wing...
Thu Apr 26 2007 1:00 PM
admin says

Cmon, the wing isn't that bad. I reckon this car looks pretty damn good. It'll be an awesome machine too. And yes, from the top-front view, the proportions remind me of the R34, which can only be a good thing.
Thu Apr 26 2007 2:06 PM
Herman L says

I still think that mitsubishi is making a big mistake by abandoning the manual... if only mitsubishi is going to make a 5 speed with the light weight RS

but its a very nice car... looks very very mean, and worlds better than the subaru
Thu Apr 26 2007 2:36 PM
Julius says

Of course Mitsu could launch the car with a standard manual, but it is likely to be slower than the automated version.

I can understand it being more fun, but who wants to be passed while playing with their stick.
Thu Apr 26 2007 3:40 PM
Gary says

Hmm, on motortrend it says a 5 speed trans (manuel)

why would they do that?

http://www.motortrend.com/future/spied_vehicles/112_0706_2008_mitsubishi_lancer_evolution/
Thu Apr 26 2007 4:01 PM
admin says

The current Evo comes with a 6-sp manual. There's no way in hell the new Evo will have anything less than that.
Thu Apr 26 2007 4:07 PM
admin says

I just double checked, the official Mitsu press release says the transmission will be a "six speed automated manual". So Motor Trend is wrong here.
Sid
Fri Apr 27 2007 12:55 AM
dale says

aww It wants to be a R34 GTR when it grows up.
Fri Apr 27 2007 5:42 AM
Ownexr says

Automated manual? Is that like tip-tronic and such?
Fri Apr 27 2007 6:13 AM
jontam says

Yeah, probabaly be paddle shifts on the steering wheel. Although I imagine in a sports car like this the paddle shift will actually be useful - ie, it will allow you to select and hold a gear even if its redlining without doing any automated shifting, as well as having an automated shifting mode for regular driving
Fri Apr 27 2007 6:15 AM
jontam says

it will probably be paddle shifts on the steering wheel.

Although I imagine in a sports car like this the paddle shift will actually be useful - ie, it will allow you to select and hold a gear even if its redlining without doing any automated shifting, as well as having an automated shifting mode for 'city driving
Fri Apr 27 2007 7:54 AM
admin says

Hey Jontam, just remember that the website uses caching so sometimes it can take up to 5 mins to show your post. The reason we have to use caches is last time Digg took down the site...
Mon May 14 2007 6:44 PM
Kiemyster says

i dont care. this car is repulsive. its a BITCH version to a REAL evo (evo 5/6/7). i hate it. hate it. hate it. its a mazda with a spoiler and a mitsu badge slapped on the front. dis-fukcin-gusting. hate to offend anyone, as i am a proud evolution lover/prior owner. the 7 was probably the best, but the 6 was the most ferocious. this. eh. this is somehting a woman would rock, not a man.

(yes. i am prepared to be flamed. BRING IT ON BITCHES)

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