2015 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution - The last of the class

Mitsubishi has unveiled the 2015 Lancer Evolution. Lancer Evolution is one of the world’s most iconic monikers in rallying. Currently in its tenth iteration, the ‘Evo’ cars have been one of the best all rounder saloon cars, offering the best of both worlds since the first generation came out in 1992. Now though, the Japanese manufacturer has announced that the iconic ‘family’ car will be discontinued worldwide and this 2015 model will mark the end of its lineage.

For most of its life, the Lancer Evolution cars have been powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine. The staggering part however is the amount of power they managed to squeeze out of the engine, in each generation. The 2015 model uses a 4B11T engine which churns out 291bhp and 406 Nm of torque. Power is sent to all four wheels through either a five-speed manual or a six-speed dual clutch Sportronic gearbox. 

The standard features on the 2015 Lancer Evolution include a hands free link system, an automatic climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel which integrates audio and cruise control. Visual changes include revised side mirrors which now integrate turn signals, a rear diffuser and a rear bootlid spoiler. The Lancer Evolution GSR comes with a ‘Premium Package’ which adds heated front seats, leather upholstery, a sunroof and additional sound dampening material to improve NVH levels. The high-end Lancer Evolution MR gets automatic headlights, some additional chrome trim and a Rockford Fosgate audio system. 

High taxation coupled with high maintenance costs have led to the a very specific audience for performance cars like the Subaru Impreza and the Lancer Evolution. A growing number of manufacturers have been shifting towards making more eco-friendly cars and low-cost vehicles, which make up for  good volumes and increase profits. Speculations suggest that the next generation Lancer Evolution will use a hybrid system, but Mitsubishi hasn’t confirmed it yet.