VistaCrew

At last, Mitsubishi Motors had revealed its upcoming super car for 2008/2009 — The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X (Evo X). It has been 10 generations for the line of Evos… more than 15 evolutionary years in history since the first generation of Lancer Evolution debuts.

The Evo X was revised from the “Prototype X” concept car which Mitsubishi Motors exhibited in major motor shows around the globe. The structure of the new car was totally re-designed from past models. The car looks aggressive and cool… it makes me remember the good old Evo V and VI which was full of “macho” feel (with the extra large sized spot lights attached to the bumpers). The front of the car was known as “Shark Head” (Whoa… great concept from Mitsubishi Motors’ designers). Large front grills, shark eyes headlamps, higher rear lamps, new aerodynamic accessories and blah blah… (I believe you can look from the pictures…) All are significant changes from its predecessor. The interior was another major improvement with ultra-modern designs to resemble a totally new, sporty driving experience.

If you knew Evo cars, you would be familiar with 4G63. What the heck was that? It’s the heart of all the past 9 generations of Evo cars! But for now, say “tata!” to 4G63! Mitsubishi Motors had developed a new engine platform for the Evo X… the all aluminum made 4B11 2.0-liter DOHC turbocharged MIVEC engine. The new aluminum 4B11 is lighter than the old iron made 4G63 and helps to lower the center of gravity of the new car. Expected power output would be more than 300 horsepowers (Actual figures to be announced). Other features would include a S-AWC system compromising ASC (Active Stability Control), ACD (Active Center Differential), AYC (Active Yaw Control) and Sport ABS. Kinda technical huh? But what to be focused is its new transmission system. The new Evo X is equipped with either conventional 5 speed manual or six-speed automated manual transmission. The sequential manual transmission works with a dual-clutch system which was a rare approach in the automation world.

Well, the new Evo X was indeed an interesting car. Subaru had also revealed their new Impreza WRX STI. However, comparing with the new Evo X, I believe the second would be a major leap ahead in terms of design. Just hope Mitsubishi Motors could utilize this machine to re-enter the World Rally Championships and log a title challenge as they were absent for the past few years. Just hope so…