For more than a decade Mitsubishi's rally-bred Evolution cars have enthralled drivers with their astonishing grip levels, balanced chassis dynamics and stomach-wrenching levels of acceleration. Now, Mitsubishi's ninth Lancer Evolution takes the story to a new level of performance and driving quality.
Available at Al Habtoor Motors, the new Lancer Evolution IX GSR is a high-performance 4WD sports sedan with a 2.0-liter intercooler-turbocharged engine powering all the four wheels through an electronically controlled 4WD system and raises all dynamic performance parameters to a new level.
Evolution IX marks the 12th model in the series, which has also included an automatic transmission model, since the Lancer Evolution debuted in October 1992. Major features distinguishing the latest model include the adoption of Mitsubishi's proprietary MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control system). The variable valve timing technology in the intake system and improvements to the turbocharger has resulted in more power at higher revs and more torque at lower revs, with peak torque of 355 nm (36.2 kg-m) @ 3500rpm and maximum power of 206kW (286hp) @ 6500rpm, all mated to a 6-speed gearbox.
The 6-speed manual transmission features gear ratios chosen to enhance all-round sporty driving, while guaranteeing crisp start-off acceleration as well as smooth high-speed cruising. Designed to appeal to competitive drivers, the short-stroke gearshift lever sports an easy-grip leather-wrapped shift-knob.
In an integral moulding, the new front bumper houses an oversize mesh grille to raise engine cooling efficiency and also locates the Mitsubishi 3-diamond emblem. All unnecessary openings on the under surface of the bumper have been closed off to reduce air resistance.
The new rear bumper features a diffuser under surface in a distinctive design that shapes the corners to stabilize air flow detachment and reduce drag and adds to Evolution's sedan-racer looks.
The rear wing assembly uses moulded vertical components colour-keyed to the body and a carbon-fibre hollow spoiler that lowers the centre of gravity.
Dark-clear extensions on headlamps and rear lamps enhance the car's premium appearance.
Driving enthusiasts will appreciate the dashboard ornamentation which is clear coated with a rich carbon-like finish. There’s also the new alloy accelerator, brake and clutch pedals designed for sport driving as well as to accent the sedan-racer look to the cockpit. The Recaro bucket seats along with non-slip Alcantara suede squab facing keeps the occupant fresh and comfortable even on longer journeys while the side bolster facings are covered in genuine leather making the seats easier to get in and out of and also adding a touch of choice luxury to the interior.
The GSR is equipped with a carbon shifter panel embellished with the Lancer Evolution logo. GSR and GT models use a high-density dash silencer and double-sealing weather-strips that reduce interior noise levels.
New rear springs lower vehicle height slightly, improving rear end stability and allowing the Super Active Yaw Control to operate more effectively and improve steering response.
Features retained on Evolution IX include: Evolution's well-proven lightweight and high rigidity body featuring the aluminium roof panel, aluminium bonnet and aluminium side protection bars pioneered on Evolution VIII MR (all grades); Mitsubishi's Active Center Differential + Super Active Yaw Control + Sports ABS electronically controlled all-wheel control system; and Brembo ventilated disc brakes.
The standard automatically controlled air conditioning provides a perfect complement to the well-being of the driver and the passengers. The re-designed centre console enables now a 2 DIN audio slot with flush design when audio is fitted.
Since its unveiling last year, the Lancer Evolution IX has won praises from motoring aficionados worldwide. Here are a few acknowledgements from the experts.
'Now in its ninth incarnation, the Evo just gets better and better. Not to mention faster and faster.'
- Test Drive, June 2005
'... the real wonder of the Evo, as always, is how it mixes stunning grip and four-wheel-drive traction with an almost neurotic willingness to change direction.'
Autocar, 17 May 2005
'The Evo IX is on a different planet from most so-called performance cars. Its pace, and the way it goes, stops, grips and changes direction, is genuinely shocking.'
Autocar, 17 May 2005
'It's a truly singular experience driving an Evo - we should all try it at least once in our motoring career.'
Test Drive, June 2005
'Put the Evo on the track and it will astonish you even more than it does on the road. Put simply, it does things that cars are not supposed to do.'
The Sunday Times, 7 August 2005
'That's the thing about the Evo - it makes a hero out of everyone who drives it. It will keep safe and inspire confidence in the complete amateur, yet it will also keep amused and engaged the seasoned professional.'
