2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

Vehicle Overview
Mitsubishi’s Lancer Evolution performance sedan uses a 291-horsepower turbocharged engine and features a standard all-wheel-drive system that features three selectable modes for various surfaces. Public enemy No. 1 is Subaru’s WRX STI.

New for 2010
A well-equipped MR Touring trim level is new for 2010 and includes a moonroof, leather upholstery, heated front seats and automatic headlights. Subtle styling changes include revised taillights and a new antenna.

Exterior
Mitsubishi says the Evolution’s shark like nose was inspired by the air intakes on fighter jets. The current Lancer’s forward-leaning stance is already one of the more aggressive shapes among compact cars, and the Evolution looks even more so.

• Standard grille with dark mesh insert
• Standard 18-inch wheels
• Large spoiler optional
• Aluminum hood, fenders, bumpers and roof
• Optional xenon headlights
• MR model with Bilstein shocks, Eibach springs, enhanced brakes and BBS wheels

Interior
The interior looks similar to the regular Lancer’s, except it has heavily bolstered Recaro racing seats.

• Standard automatic climate control, power windows and locks, a six-speaker CD stereo and cruise control
• Standard audio controls on the steering wheel
• Optional Rockford Fosgate audio system
• Optional navigation system

Under the Hood
The Lancer Evolution’s optional twin-clutch automated manual works much like Volkswagen’s DSG gearbox, with the next gear at hand as soon as the previous gear is released. This is designed to produce lightning-fast shifts, which are performed automatically or with paddle shifters on the steering wheel. The transmission offers three shift programs: Normal, Sport and S-Sport. Sport holds lower gears longer and shifts more quickly than Normal, while S-Sport optimizes performance for the racetrack.

• 291-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 300 pounds-feet of torque
• Standard five-speed manual transmission
• Optional six-speed twin-clutch automated manual

Safety
Standard safety features include:

• Driver’s knee airbag
• Side-impact airbags for the front seats
• Side curtain airbags for both rows of seats
• Four-wheel-disc antilock brakes
• Electronic stability system