Mitsubishi to Broaden Appeal of Next Lancer Evolution

Concept-X Offers More than just Hint of the Next Lancer Evolution

If you liked what you saw when Mitsubishi introduced photos of its Concept-X last month (see automotive news section for Sep 29, 2005: New Mitsubishi Concept X to Wow Tokyo Showgoers), youd better make room for an extra $30,000 or so in your 2008 budget. While model year 2009 might seem like a long time to wait for a new car, the upcoming EVO should be nothing less than outstanding.

According to top-ranking Mitsubishi officials, the prototype shown in Frankfurt is very true to the next Lancer Evolution, which bodes well for the automaker gaining ground as new models get released.

“The overall shape is close to the production model,” commented Akinori Nakanishi, chief designer for Mitsubishi Motors Corp. “We want a more mature looking, upscale and sophisticated model.”

It is believed that Mitsubishi will attempt to heighten the EVOs appeal to a broader range of new car buyers when the new model comes along, it currently only sells 5,000 units in the U.S., and none in Canada being that bumper restrictions dont allow its sale north of the 49th.

Currently, the manual-only performance cars “boy-racer” styling is not popular among women, and Mitsubishi hopes its classier design and the addition of an automatic transmission will help lure more female performance buyers to the EVO camp.

The Evolution “is more boy-racer looking,” Nakanishi added. “We need a broader audience because of the price.”

Yes, despite its compact size and economy car roots the 2006 Lancer Evolution starts at the entry-level premium price of $29,274, including the destination charge. For that money you can also buy a HEMI-powered Dodge Charger R/T, MazdaSpeed6, and other more luxurious performance sedans.

It is expected that when the Evolution gets overhauled it will ride on an all-new small car chassis architecture, feature a version of the new global engine co-developed with DaimlerChrysler and Hyundai, move up-market with regards to interior design and materials quality, and push more than 300-horsepower through all four wheels.

Nakanishi added that the new car will also provide more interior room than the current EVO, which will help it appeal to those expecting more size to go along with its high price tag.