The EVO is based on the Lancer sedan, but the two models don't have a whole lot in common. The Lancer is a small car that can get lost in a parking lot, but the turbocharged EVO is loud, fast and ready to race. The EVO was developed in the first part of the 1990s for the WRC (World Rally Championship) series; with its turbocharged engine and all wheel drive, it quickly became successful.
Early street legal versions of the EVO were intended for use in Japan, but the car quickly developed a worldwide following. In 2003, Mitsubishi started importing the EVO to North America. The car is on its second generation in the United States, and it is more stylish than its predecessor, while still offering the performance people have come to expect. The Lancer may be a lowly economy car, but the EVO iteration can corner and accelerate with the best of them.
Today's EVO, the Lancer Evolution X, offers performance usually found only in sport sedans and cars that cost a lot more. There are only a few cars that can approximate its engine power, driving experience and handling. The EVO not only drives like a performance car, but it looks like one, too. The only engine option is a 2.0L, 4-cylinder engine that provides 291hp and 300 lb. ft. of torque.
The EVO comes in two trim levels- the MR and the GSR. The GSR is for traditionalists; it offers a more aggressive suspension and a five-speed manual gearbox. The MR is more expensive and it comes with a softer suspension and Mitsubishi's automated manual transmission, operated by paddle shifters. The MR also has a touring package, including a sunroof, leather seats, soundproofing and rain sensing windshield wipers.
The exterior of the EVO has taken a few steps forward, but the interior is strictly economy car class. The controls are functionally laid out, but the layout is essentially the same as the Lancer base model. Despite its few shortcomings, the EVO has earned a reputation as a car that gives you a lot of bang for your buck.