Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X

Motoring Channel Staff - 30/Apr/2007

Tokyo, Japan — Mitsubishi Motors is finally on the comeback trail, evidenced by two important events. The first is that Mitsubishi is readying the tenth generation Lancer Evolution sports car for sale in its domestic market of Japan, and first official photos have emerged.

The second important event occurred just recently when Mitsubishi's bean counters tallied its global finances and discovered that for the first time in four years it has turned a profit. This is big news, particularly considering the kinds of ills that had befallen the Japanese company in recent times. 

Based on a 4% annual sales increase between March 2006 and March 2007, the company had a total of $18.5 billion in car sales, which resulted in $73 million revenue, which compares well to the more than $700 million loss that was recorded for 2005.

Following vehicle recall scandals and redundancies across the board, the global car maker has weathered the storm and appears to be on the road to recovery as the end of the decade closes in.

One of Mitsubishi's most recognised (and some say idolised) cars is the Lancer Evolution model, and in combination with the improving morale at the company the new car is expected to increase interest in the Japanese marque considerably.

In Japan, which is Mitsubishi's domestic market, the company has announced the names of two new models. The car known as the Lancer will be renamed the Galant Fortis for the Japanese market, while the range-topping halo model will stick to Mitsubishi’s rally-inspired, high-performance 4WD heritage and will carry the name Lancer Evolution X.

According to Mitsubishi, the development concept for the all-new Lancer Evolution X specifies a "new-generation high-performance 4WD global sedan that allows all levels of driver to enjoy the car's speed and handling with ease and in safety".

The new model features Mitsubishi's S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) traction and handling system, that is claimed to integrate the control of drive torque and braking management with the four-wheel drive system to offer an focussed and responsive driving experience. Mitsubishi says that S-AWC helps the new Evolution X realise highly intuitive handling and outstanding vehicle attitude stability.

Though the company hasn't yet revealed the exact specifications of the new Evolution X model, it is expected to be the most powerful Evo model ever built, and as a result we can expect a price rise. It will also feature a new and lightweight high-performance version of the famous 2.0-litre turbocharged MIVEC engine which can optioned with a new 6-speed automated manual transmission (think DSG) that not only helps the car to achieve even quicker zero to 100km/h performance times, but also improves fuel economy. 

Mitsubishi has also hinted that the new 10th generation Lancer Evolution will have a more prestigious interior, with higher quality fittings and more standard features than before, which lends more support to a price rise. With Subaru's new Impreza WRX STI model - the Evolution X's historical rival - expected to move upmarket along with the new WRX models, it too is expected to increase the price of its most potent 4-cylinder turbocharged AWD sports car.

The other model launching in the Japanese car market is the Galant Fortis calls (previously the Lancer sedan). This vehicle is a "new-generation global sedan with world-class levels of safety, environmental performance and comfort," according to Mitsubishi, and is the basis for the Evolution model. 

Distinguishing features for the Lancer-by-any-other-name include a new 2.0-litre engine with aluminium cylinder block that returns excellent fuel efficiency, new exterior styling that imparts a broad stance and sporty lines, a spacious, well appointed cabin and a high-rigidity platform that delivers excellent crashworthiness.

These two new models will be officially launched in September at the Frankfurt Motor Show in Germany.

Related articles:
- Mitsubishi Evolution X Concept (2008)
- Mitsubishi Lancer (2008)
- Mitsubishi Evolution IX (Road Test)
- Suzuki Swift Sport vs. Mitsubishi Ralliart Colt (Road Test)
- Mitsubishi's Customised Cars: SEMA (2006)
- Mitsubishi NS Pajero (2006)
- Mitsubishi 380 VRX (2006)