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Posted April, 2006

Road Test: 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

By Kevin S. Lowery

Everything comes back in style, albeit differently. That can be exemplified by the resurgence of the “boy racer,” sports-car-on-a-budget variety of automobile. And make no doubt that young guys, whose licenses has barely cooled off are the natural target audience for this four-door sedan that feels more like a sports coupe. Indeed, these young-at-heart automobiles are spun from a common thread and vary little from manufacturer to manufacturer. Most always the engine is souped up in all the wrong places; it’s tricked up with the trendiest accessories and the ride sucks.

So if you’re young and you like to make fun muffler sounds and shout at the cute boo-tay, you’ll like the testosterone jolt of the Lancer Evolution. The car debuted in North America in 2003 and is back for reskin and a tweak.

Lancer has a long history of involvement with the WRC. With that in mind, the new model has improved engine output, handling performance and the coordination between the two. The automobile’s 4G63 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder DOHC intercooled, turbocharged engine has Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing and Electronic Control (MIVEC) system. It’s tuned to deliver maximum power all across lower, middle- and higher parts of the rev band, generating 289 lb-ft of torque at 3500 rpm. Peak horsepower has also increased to 286 at 6500 rpm and there is now more power and response on tap on the left side of the tachometer, thanks to the combination of MIVEC. In combination with an improved muffler, the engine emits a throatier exhaust note.

The Evolution MR has a new lightweight aluminum roof panel designed to lower the center of gravity and reduce the roll moment; jointly developed Bilstein monotube shock absorbers; and lightweight forged-alloy Enkei wheels which keep the wheel mass low, giving them less of a feeling of being unsprung.

A six-speed transmission is exclusive to the Evolution MR. The other models receive a closer ratio five-speed gearbox. The All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system in the Lancer Evolution relies on an Active Center Differential (ACD) and front limited-slip differential (LSD), which - combined with Sports antilock brakes (Sports ABS) - creates a more natural, better-mannered driving feel.

The Lancer Evolution's interior is simple and functional. Larger cup holders have been added to the console. All models of the Evolution receive new Alcantara-covered Recaro seats with leather side-bolsters. The steering wheel comes in dark titanium to coordinate with the interior, the shift panel and the aluminum shift know. Add in extra-grip aluminum pedals to complete the look. An Active Center Differential indicator, new for 2006, is located on the combination meter, inside the tachometer display. It can be set for (Tarmac/Gravel/Snow) weather.

The track-ready Evolution RS also receives one body panel from the MR: its roof, which is made of lightweight aluminum for lower weight and a lower center of gravity. The RS also benefits from thin trunk-lid sheet metal to decrease weight.

The Lancer Evolution stands for more than driving performance. Audio performance can be supplied by an optional high-powered Infinity amplifier that delivers 45 watts through each of seven channels, for a total of 315 watts that includes a trunk-mounted subwoofer (Subwoofer not available on the MR or the RS.) Two nineteen-millimeter tweeters are mounted on the A-pillar, four sixteen-centimeter full range speakers are mounted on the front doors and rear shelf.

We drove a 2006 Lancer Evolution MR with all the features and option packages. There were no outlandish, over-the-top features except for the rear spoiler extension. It’s mammoth, gigantic size compromises rear visibility. I hesitated to switch lanes, always thinking there was someone in my blind spot.

The Evolution MR that we drove had a base price of $35,189—$36,894 with all the option packages. The EPA rates the vehicle at 18city/24highway.

Overall, it was a good attempt by Mitsubishi. If you’re in the market, go test drive one at a dealership near you. If you’ve got a new driver in the family, make sure you’ve attached the kiddie leash first. Or wait until they have their own insurance policy. R&D