One of Mitsubishi’s pin-up models has finally been introduced to the South African roads. It may be about 5 years late, but the Evo X – or Lancer Evolution – which was launched globally in 2008, is now available to those petrol-heads who delight in the car’s blatant performance-oriented design.
Featuring a four-cylinder MIVEC Twin Scroll Turbo-Charged engine under the hood, the Evo X produces a whopping 217kw of power at 6500rm and 366Nm or torque at 3500rpm – more than enough to rocket the car to 100km/h in about 5 seconds. The South African release features the 6-speed Twin Clutch Sport Shift Transmission – paddle shifts located behind the steering wheel - along with Normal, Sports and Super Sports mode options. Normal mode is used when the driver requires ‘comfort and economy’, while Sports mode allows you to change gear at a higher rev count. When switching into Super Sports mode, however, the Evo X’s racing quality – a remnant from Mitsubishi’s Rally days – shines through. Gear shifts happen at 6500rpm and throttle response becomes thoroughly aggressive. In Super Sports mode the transmission automatically downshifts on braking, but will hold the gear around a corner.
As part of the performance-driven engineering the Evo X sports 18” ventilated brake-discs at the front and 17” ventilated discs at the rear, as well as 18” Alloy wheels. The Japanese Automaker has also made the Evo X’s handling a major priority – with an Active Central Differential with Active Stability Control and Sport ABS in place to make sure the sports car hugs the corners. The Evo X has been produced with aluminium body parts and engine block, and a very low centre of gravity, making it almost 20% faster than the Evo IX.
While clearly created to be a monster on the track, the Evo X has maintained it’s ‘sedan’ credibility by providing all the luxuries that ensure ride comfort. The Evo X comes standard with a total of 7 airbags, brake assist, ABS and RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body construction.
Additional standard features include the automatic rain sensing wipers, a Rockford Fosgate audio system (with iPod and MP3 input), multi-function steering wheel, adaptive front lighting system and Recaro racing seats.
The hefty price tag for the Evo X has not seemed to hinder the die-hard fans, as Mitsubishi sold the first shipment of 20 cars even before the price was announced. The Lancer will set you back R699000, and comes with a 3-year or 100 000km warranty or 3-year and 75 000km service plan. Considering that the Evo X retails for more than R120 000 the price of its closest competitor, Subaru’s WRX STI, it looks like those that appreciate the technical details and engineering elements of the EVO X are quite happy to spend the extra money.
Visit MyCars.co.za to see some great deals on Mitsubishi Lancers for sale and other Mitsubishi for sale on auction.
Download the Evo X's spec details from Mitsubishi South Africa.
Image from Mitsubishi South Africa