Mitsubishi Motors UK has unveiled the final edition of the current generation Evo. Just one version of the new Evolution IX MR (Mitsubishi Racing) will be available, powered by a 366bhp version of Mitsubishi’s 2.0-litre turbo engine. Two hundred units of the Evolution IX MR FQ-360 are now available from Mitsubishi Ralliart dealers, priced from £34,539.
Changes to the specification of the 1997cc 4-cylinder 4G63 twin scroll turbocharged engine have created a car that delivers an even higher level of performance. Mitsubishi said it's introduced titanium aluminium alloy turbo fins and reduced the compressor wheel inlet diameter to improved the engine’s response throughout the rev range.
When the cars arrive in the UK, further engine development work is carried out by Mitsubishi Motors UK’s tuning division, Ralliart, and the independent specialists, HKS. An HKS tuning kit delivers 366bhp at 6887rpm and 363lb-ft of torque at 3,200rpm. Mitsubishi’s MIVEC variable valve timing technology improves the engine’s efficiency, combining improved response with a three per cent reduction in fuel consumption.
Mitsu sees the FQ-360 as an affordable, practical, five-seater saloon car that can hit 0-60mph in 3.9 seconds and on to an electronically limited top speed of 157mph. Porsche's 911 Carrera 4S costs almost twice as and takes 0.9 seconds longer to reach 60mph from rest, Mitsu pointed out.
The engine upgrades are accompanied by changes to the Evo’s MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension. Eibach springs have been introduced and lower the ride height by 10mm at the front and 5mm at the rear. This enhances high speed stability and allows the Super Active Yaw Control (Super AYC) system to function more effectively, said Mitsubishi. The yaw control system also provides a greater distribution of power between the rear wheels, increasing traction on loose surfaces. Mitsubishi’s electronically-controlled four-wheel drive system (4WD) is carried over unchanged.
Outside, a new carbon fibre front spoiler provides additional downforce and high speed stability and a rear carbon fibre vortex generator is standard. The 11-spoke Speedline Turini alloy wheels are also new and mimic those fitted to Mitsubishi’s tarmac spec rally car. The Yokohama ADVAN AO46 235/45 ZR17 tyres are carried over unchanged, while the Brembo braking system is unchanged.
Inside, automatic headlights and privacy glass are introduced for the first time, the seats have been redesigned with ‘IX MR’ motifs, the dashboard panel is now finished in ‘Piano Black’ and there are ‘Lancer EVOLUTION’ aluminium scuff protectors on the door frames. The Recaro seats and Momo steering wheel are unchanged.
The car is covered by a three-year unlimited mileage warranty and pan-European recovery service, and a six-year anti-corrosion perforation warranty.
Pricing is unchanged at £34,539 without leather, and £1,000 more with leather.