Lancer Evo X - In showrooms from July 21st, 2008

After a painfully long wait, the next generation of Mitsubishi's giant-killing Lancer Evolution series arrives on Australian shores this month. Now, in its 10th generation, the new Evo X has been driving fans and enthusiasts crazy with anticipation, but on July 21, the first cars will be available for purchase across the country.

It will be available in two guises, the standard Evo X and the performance-focused MR model. The latter comes with all the bells and whistles one expects from a rally-bred performance sedan, including forged alloy wheels and uprated suspension, while the base model can be fitted with an optional performance package to bring it closer to the MR's specifications. Though the early Japanese-market cars were only available with a five-speed manual transmission, all Australian-delivered versions are available with the new Twin Clutch SST gearbox from launch.

Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) all-wheel drive is also standard on both models, offering near-supercar levels of grip and excellent foul weather capability. The S-AWC system includes an active centre differential, active yaw control, a limited slip differential and a three-way adjustable driver control setting that selects for tarmac, gravel and snow, ensuring optimum grip in all situations.

Engine output and drivetrain options

Both models are powered by a heavily revised version of the 2.0-litre DOHC MIVEC turbocharged engine from the outgoing car, and in new 4B11 guise develops 211kW and peak torque of 366Nm at 3,500rpm. The new mill is 12kg lighter, returns better environmental performance, and is 20% more responsive than its 4G63 predecessor. Other new features of the powertrain include a die-cast aluminium cylinder block, head cover and chain case as well as a titanium and aluminium turbo.

The new six-speed automated manual Twin Clutch SST (TC-SST), available on both models but standard on the MR, allows the driver to choose between fully automatic and manual shifting modes and features a small toggle switch for swapping between Normal, Sport and Super Sport modes. Gears are changed via a small pair of magnesium paddle shifters located behind the steering wheel.

A five-speed manual transmission is standard on the base model Evo X.

Improved handling and comfort from revised suspension and chassis

Handling and dynamics are improved significantly over the outgoing Evo IX thanks to gains in torsional and flexural stiffness of 40% and 60% respectively over the predecessor. This results in better handling stability and crashworthiness, as well as an improved ride and reduced vibration and noise.

The new car also features a 30mm wider track, longer wheelbase and superior front-to-rear weight distribution. Aluminium is used in the roof panel, bonnet, front fenders and the rear spoiler frame structure to keep the weight lower in the chassis as well, further improving handling. Both models get 350mm disc brakes grabbed by four-piston callipers up front and 330mm units clasped by two-piston callipers in the rear, though the MR gets two-piece discs that weigh 1kg less than those of the standard Evo X.

Features, trim packages and pricing

Standard features include Recaro sports bucket seats, a small diameter leather clad steering wheel, a new multi-function display with info pertaining to fuel levels, Twin Clutch SST mode, and S-AWC operating modes.

Automatic climate control, Smart key keyless entry, hands free Bluetooth connectivity, dusk sensing headlamps and rain sensing wipers, cruise control and AM/FM six stacker CD audio with steering wheel audio controls are also all standard equipment on all Evo X models.

The MR adds upgraded Bilstein front and rear shock absorbers, Eibach front and rear springs, high intensity definition (HID) headlamps with adaptive front-lighting system (AFS) with headlamp washers and auto headlamp levelling, 18-inch BBS forged aluminium wheels, colour coded hood and fender air outlets and chrome belt line moulding and grille surround to the base spec.

The Performance Package, available on the base model, adds 18-inch BBS lightweight alloy wheels, Brembo two piece brakes, Bilstein front and rear shock absorbers and Eibach front and rear springs, for a price of $5,500.

The base Evo X starts at $59,490, with the upgraded Lancer Evolution with TC-SST priced from $64,490 and the top-level MR from $71,690.

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Written By: James Squire
Source: Carcentral.com.au