2006 Mitsubishi Lancer Review

More Power, Better Handling and Improved Styling

Ever lusted after the compact super sedan that is on most automotive journalists personal wish lists? It certainly is on my personal top-10 roster, shooting to near the top after a day-long stint in a 2005 EVO VIII and EVO VIII MR last summer. And the current model, derived from World Rally Championship title holding Evolution cars just like all EVOs before it, has done well for Mitsubishi.

The best-in-class EVO series of Lancer compacts were long promised to the American market, and with the EVO VIII showed up here only a short time ago. The Japanese automaker enhanced the cars performance last year by pumping up the horsepower, adding a six-speed manual, including Mitsubishis “cutting-edge” ACD, or active differential to its already grippy four-wheel drive system, and tacking on various aerodynamic upgrades, making the special EVO VIII MR that I fell head over heels for in September, one of the best performing cars in the world.

Many of these upgrades will be part of the EVO IX package, introduced to the Japanese market on March 3, and unveiled in the U.S. at the New York International Auto Show in March. Those expecting bigger changes, such as a totally revised design, will have to make due with the cars mild update and improvements under the skin until the EVO X gets released next year.

The EVOs three-box layout continues forward, with a restyled grille and modified front and rear bumpers, the former which allows greater cooling performance and high aerodynamic qualities.

Under the hood is a new MIVEC variable valve timing enhanced 2.0-liter intercooled and turbocharged four-cylinder, putting power to all four wheels via 5- and 6-speed manual transmissions, depending on trim level.

On that note, the new EVO IX is available in three trim levels, starting with the most comfort-oriented GSR, which features Mitsubishis aforementioned active differential. Incidentally, ACD disengages the differential during extremely tight corners in order to maintain optimal traction. The GSR features active yaw control and sport-tuned ABS too, for ultimate control in all conditions. The GSR gets a 6-speed manual, making the most of the powerful engine.

Next on the list is the motorsport-specification RS, which sports a special lightweight body, a new titanium-magnesium turbocharger, 5-speed gearbox and ACD, as well as mechanical rear limited-slip differential (LSD) all-wheel control.

New for Evolution IX is the GT grade, which combines the RSs turbocharger and drivetrain specification plus GSRs comfort-bias body and enhanced sound deadening.

As with previous EVOs, owners can customize their Evolution IXs to individual tastes with a comprehensive range of factory- and dealer-fitted options, plus Ralliart tuning and cosmetic parts.

Those wanting an EVO but unable to make the financial commitment will be surprised at how well the Lancer Ralliart performs. While its 162-horsepower MIVEC enhanced 2.0-liter four-cylinder is no match to the EVO IXs turbocharged engine, its handling is sublime and styling reminiscent of its more expensive sibling.