By: Hans Greimel, Automotive News on 3/31/2014

“Mitsubishi Motors does not have any plans to design a successor with the current concept, as a high-performance four-wheel drive gasoline-powered sedan,” spokeswoman Namie Koketsu said, describing the car as having “icon” status. “Mitsubishi Motors will explore the possibilities of high-performance models that incorporate electric vehicle technology.”

Dropping the Evo was foreshadowed last fall when President Osamu Masuko unveiled a new mid-term business plan that would deprioritize in-house sedans and explore sourcing them through joint projects with the Renault-Nissan Alliance. He said Mitsubishi's strength lies in pickups, crossovers and SUVs.

The loss of the Evolution shrinks an already small lineup for U.S. dealers, who battle a dearth of fresh offerings, especially in the sedan segment. It also marks a departure for Mitsubishi, which once built a reputation as a purveyor of tech-savvy performance cars such as the Evolution, Eclipse and 3000GT.

Mitsubishi, riding record profits after years of losses, aims to lift global sales 29 percent to 1.43 million vehicles in the fiscal year ending March 31, 2017, from the 1.11 million it expects to have sold in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2014.

By: Hans Greimel, Automotive News on 3/31/2014

“Mitsubishi Motors does not have any plans to design a successor with the current concept, as a high-performance four-wheel drive gasoline-powered sedan,” spokeswoman Namie Koketsu said, describing the car as having “icon” status. “Mitsubishi Motors will explore the possibilities of high-performance models that incorporate electric vehicle technology.”

Dropping the Evo was foreshadowed last fall when President Osamu Masuko unveiled a new mid-term business plan that would deprioritize in-house sedans and explore sourcing them through joint projects with the Renault-Nissan Alliance. He said Mitsubishi's strength lies in pickups, crossovers and SUVs.

The loss of the Evolution shrinks an already small lineup for U.S. dealers, who battle a dearth of fresh offerings, especially in the sedan segment. It also marks a departure for Mitsubishi, which once built a reputation as a purveyor of tech-savvy performance cars such as the Evolution, Eclipse and 3000GT.

Mitsubishi, riding record profits after years of losses, aims to lift global sales 29 percent to 1.43 million vehicles in the fiscal year ending March 31, 2017, from the 1.11 million it expects to have sold in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2014.

Thanks to its potent turbocharged and intercooled powerplant, precision-tuned handling, communicative steering feel and 4-door configuration, the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is an ultra-high-performance sports car that allows the driver to take to the track – along with several of his/her like-minded friends.

For the 2014 model year, the Lancer Evolution gains several upscale-oriented improvements to make an already very enjoyable ride an even more sumptuous experience. These new features include:

- 6.1-in. touchscreen display audio system
- HD Radio®
- SIRIUSXM® satellite radio with 3-month pre-paid subscription
- An available MMCS navigation system with 7-in. high-definition touch panel, voice command, 3D mapping, point-of-interest information, real-time traffic and Mapcare® including two updates

Pulse-Pounding Turbocharged Power

With a ready 291 bhp on tap at 6,500 rpm and a full 300 lb.-ft. of torque beginning at 4,000 rpm, the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution’s DOHC 16-valve 2.0-liter turbocharged and intercooled inline-4-cylinder engine feels completely willing and able at virtually any mark on the tachometer.

This 4B11 T/C powerplant features a “square” design with a bore and stroke each measuring 86.0 mm, a compression ratio of 9.0:1 and a reinforced cast-aluminum engine block and an aluminum cylinder head. Power production is further maximized by the installation of a high-volume free-flow exhaust system with dual exhaust outlets, while weight balance is improved with the turbocharger and stainless steel exhaust manifold positioned close to the firewall at the rear of the engine.

Rally Racing-Derived Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC)

Having won numerous drivers’ championships – including four straight from 1996 through 1999 with Finnish racing legend Tommi Mäkinen – in the extremely challenging on- and off-road circuits featured in the World Rally Championship (WRC), this specialized racing discipline has proven to be the fertile real-world test bed for developing Mitsubishi Motors’ exceptionally capable Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) all-wheel drive system.

The 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution employs a network of highly advanced components in the company’s trademark Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) all-wheel drive system to achieve maximum tractability, safety, handling and performance. These include an Active Center Differential (ACD) and a rear differential with Active Yaw Control (AYC), a Sport ABS braking system and Active Stability Control (ASC).

Allowing up to a 50:50 torque split between the front and rear wheels, the Active Center Differential (ACD) controls the power routed to the wheels via an electronically-controlled multi-plate clutch based on a number of parameters including steering wheel angle, throttle opening, and individual wheel speeds.

The Active Yaw Control (AYC) controls torque distribution to the vehicle’s rear wheels through yaw rate sensors, brake force control from the Active Stability Control (ASC) and the planetary gear rear differential.

The Active Stability Control (ASC) oversees the traction and stability control systems and helps prevent wheel slip and regulates brake force and power distribution at each individual wheel for improved stability and traction when cornering.

The Sport Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) utilizes data from the S-AWC and the yaw rate sensors, along with advanced brake pressure, to rapidly decelerate the vehicle with exceptional poise and control.

Mitsubishi Motors’ Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) all-wheel drive system may be complex, but the system greatly simplifies matters for the driver, thanks to three selectable traction modes – Tarmac, Gravel and Snow – for maximum performance on low-grip surfaces and/or in poor weather conditions.

Chassis/Suspension: More Than Up to the Task

Underpinning the 2014 Lancer Evolution is the same well-engineered global platform that serves as the foundation for not only the Lancer sports sedan and the stylish 5-door Lancer Sportback models but also the popular Outlander and Outlander Sport crossover vehicles.

The competition-based high-performance suspension on the Lancer Evolution consists of inverted MacPherson struts at the front of the vehicle with a multi-link design at the rear. In addition to the suspension’s aluminum control arms, this strong yet lightweight alloy can be found throughout the vehicle to help reduce overall vehicle weight: the front fenders, hood, roof and front and rear bumper beams are composed of aluminum. In a further nod to reducing vehicle mass and while improving weight distribution for better overall driving dynamics, the battery and the windshield washer fluid tank have been relocated to the trunk.

Decisions, Decisions: Lancer Evolution GSR or MR?

The 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution GSR combines all of the athleticism and performance that we have come to expect from the legendary Lancer Evolution lineage – including a precise short-throw 5-speed manual transmission – along with a very attractive price.

A long list of welcome standard features and amenities are included on every Lancer Evolution GSR model: highly supportive Recaro® semi-bucket sport seats; leather-wrapped sport steering wheel; lightweight Enkei® alloy wheels; Yokohama Advan® high-performance tires; Brembo® brakes; and a large, eye-catching rear deck lid spoiler.

The 5-speed manual transmission-equipped 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution GSR achieves an EPA-rated 17 mpg city/23 mpg highway.

Perhaps the most prominent feature that separates the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR from the GSR edition is a very special transmission that is nothing short of an engineering masterpiece.

Mitsubishi Motors’ Twin-Clutch Sportronic® Shift Transmission (TC-SST) performs virtually instantaneous split-second shifts through its 6-speed gearbox, whether the transmission is operating in “automatic” mode or is being “manually” shifted by the driver via the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters or by pushing forward/pulling back on the console-mounted gear shift lever.

Mitsubishi Motors engineers programmed three automatic drive modes for the Twin-Clutch Sportronic® Shift Transmission (TC-SST): Normal, Sport and S-Sport. In Normal mode, the Lancer Evolution drives similar to most automatic transmission-equipped vehicles. In Sport mode, the shift points are moved higher in the rpm range and shifting has been quickened. The S-Sport mode goes further, holding each gear close to redline, and is optimized for the racetrack.

Other 2014 Lancer Evolution MR exclusive features include an upgraded sport-tuned suspension fitted with Bilstein® shock absorbers and Eibach® springs, BBS® forged-alloy wheels, special lightweight two-piece Brembo® front brake rotors (each set 2.9 lbs. lighter than those found on the GSR model), and High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights.

The 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR with the TC-SST twin-clutch gearbox has an EPA mileage rating of 17 mpg city/ 22 mpg highway.

And whether a 2014 Mitsubishi Motors Lancer Evolution customer eventually chooses a GSR or MR model, these vehicles feature a jam-packed standard features package including a leather-wrapped sport steering wheel with cruise and audio controls; an aerodynamically-enhancing rear diffuser; power windows, mirrors and door locks; automatic climate control; form-fitting Recaro® front bucket sport seats; remote keyless entry and Mitsubishi Motors’ FUSE Hands-Free Link System® that allows users to wirelessly connect to their Bluetooth®-enabled cell phone, iPod® or USB drive by using their voice.

Safety and Warranty: Additional Piece of Mind

Helping to protect the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution occupants in the event of an accident are Mitsubishi Motors’ patented next-generation Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) technology to help disperse energy from the cabin section as well as the fuel system, a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and a supplemental restraint system (SRS) with occupant sensors and a total of seven air bags: a driver’s side knee air bag, two advanced dual-stage front air bags with occupant seat position sensors, two seat-mounted side-impact air bags and two side curtain air bags.

An extensive vehicle warranty includes a fully transferable 3-year/36,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty; a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain limited warranty (applicable to the vehicle’s original purchaser); a 7-year/100,000-mile anti-corrosion perforation limited warranty; and a 5-year/un

About a month ago, Mitsubishi’s U.S. chief Don Swearingen said the Lancer Evolution’s time had “come and gone” and that there would be no direct replacement for the car once the 2015 model year is out. The Mitsubishi exec also said that a special edition model would be launched to mark the Evo’s end.

Today, we have the first details on a new Evo concept that may just preview the special edition model hinted by Swearingen. The new concept is called the Lancer Evolution X Final Concept and it’s set to debut next month at the 2015 Tokyo Auto Salon, the Japanese equivalent of tuning shows like the Essen Motor Show in Germany and SEMA here in the U.S.

The concept is based on the fully-featured Evo GSR equipped with a five-speed manual, and comes powered by a version of the familiar 2.0-liter turbo four worked over by top Japanese tuning firm HKS. Thanks to a new turbocharger setup, high-flow intake and exhaust systems, an upgraded intercooler and recalibration of the ECU, peak power registers at 473 horsepower. By comparison, the standard Evo produces just 291 hp.

The concept is also fitted with forged aluminum wheels from RAYS that measure 19 inches across and are wrapped in Yokohama Advan Neovas tires. And the whole thing sits lower than a standard Evo thanks to HKS-tuned adjustable suspension.

Visual tweaks include a matte black finish for the exterior, which is joined by some glossy black accents on the roof and rear spoiler. Inside, contrast red stitching can be found.

When Mitsubishi brought back the Eclipse name on a new crossover, the Eclipse Cross, fans were incensed, to say the least. A new Autocar report says that Mitsubishi is bringing back an even more iconic name: the Lancer Evolution. But don't worry, the 11th-gen Evo won't be a crossover. Citing anonymous Japan-based sources, Autocar says the Evo XI will be available as either a four-door sedan or, for the first time, as a four-door hatchback.

Autocar says the resurrected Evo will ride on a Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi platform, an evolution (no pun intended) of the one that underpins current models like the Infiniti QX50 and the Renault Mégane. It will likely share its powertrain with the next-gen Renault Mégane RS, which has a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four mated to a dual-clutch automatic transmission. A Mitsubishi-developed all-wheel-drive system is a sure bet, using the same S-AWC tech as the Evo X. The most powerful current Mégane RSmakes 300 horsepower, but the new Evo could add a hybrid system to boost power closer to 350 horses.

The last Evo X (pictured in this story) was sold in 2016, while the standard Lancer lived on in the United States for a bit longer and is still available in other markets. This new report makes no mention of whether there will be a new generation of the regular Lancer; we could see one happening, as there is a compact-sedan-shaped hole in Mitsubishi's current lineup. Autocar also doesn't say when the new Evo will appear. We wouldn't be surprised to see some sort of concept car at the 2019 Tokyo auto show in October, with the production car coming out in within a few years.

Now, there still could be a chance of an Evolution crossover. Mitsubishi has released a number of concepts over the years that hinted at an Evo SUV—including one from 2017 that even used the Evolution name—and when the Evo X was dying there were rumors swirling that it would be replaced by a hybrid crossover. But even if a Lancer Evolution sedan does happen, Mitsubishi could seize the opportunity to create a family of Evo models, including a crossover. We'll just have to wait and see how Mitsubishi's future lineup evolves. Pun intended.

You want a new Lancer Evolution. I want a new Lancer Evolution. Mitsubishi is well aware of this, and it’s not just us whiners begging the company to bring back its most beloved product — the automaker’s shareholders are apparently demanding it too, according to a report out of Japanese publication Response.

This story broke around the middle of last week — right after Mitsubishi’s annual shareholders meeting wrapped — but it hasn’t received much attention yet. According to Response by way of Japanese Nostalgic Car, at the event Mitsubishi CEO Takao Kato shed a little more detail on what the company is angling to do with the Ralliart brand after it announced it was going to bring it back. “We plan to develop [Ralliart] as a genuine accessory in a wide range of models,” Kato said, via Google Translate. “But we will also consider involvement in rallying.”

Involvement on what level? Who knows! But one thing this renewed interest in rallying will not include — at least not yet — is a new Evo. Supposedly, stakeholders want it, but Kato said the time just isn’t right. From Response, again translated:
Mitsubishi plainly isn’t in a position to burn money on research and development on a niche sports sedan — hell, it can’t even build a crossover most people actually want to buy these days. If there’s any hope of the Evo returning, it’d have to happen after the company has reclaimed stable financial footing. Unfortunately, Kato had less to say about how Mitsubishi intends to get there.

The trouble is, for Mitsubishi to sell cars, it has to make cars. That’s becoming increasingly difficult as the company pares down its lineups and trims and its global footprint to find a viable path forward. One strategy is to sell rebadged Renaults in Europe starting in 2023. But until then, the automaker’s only new-ish product in the continent will be the Eclipse Cross PHEV — a car it considers “the core of its brand.” That poor plug-in hybrid has an awful lot of responsibility riding on its shoulders.

Then again, at least Europe has the promise of new Mitsubishis on the horizon. In the U.S., the company is banking on the recent launch of the 2022 Outlander (the consensus on that one appears to be “it’s fine”), slight tweaks and updates to its aging, forgotten crossovers, and a couple of Mirage facelifts. Not bringing back the Evo is the least of Mitsubishi’s issues.