2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution in Southampton, NJ - $37,995

While remaining true to the core values that have made the Lancer Evolution (Evo) sedan synonymous with thrilling performance, the legendary Mitsubishi ultra-high-performance sports sedan continues on for the 2015 model year in the United States. Available in GSR and MR performance models, new-for-2015 model year highlights include: new heated side view mirrors with turn indicators and drop cup holder with lid.

The GSR Model, a new premium package, includes High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights with manual leveling; 9 speaker 710-watt Rockford Fosgate® premium sound system with 10-in. subwoofer with Punch Control®, DTS® Neural Surround, PremiDIA-Wide® surround and Dolby® Volume; FAST-key entry system; leather seating, power glass sunroof, heated front seats, sound dampening enhancement, gloss-black front console box with lids, and scuff plates. Meanwhile, the MR Model boasts a nine speaker 710-watt Rockford Fosgate® premium sound system, FAST-key entry system, auto dimming rearview mirror, rain-sensing wipers, auto on/off headlights, color-keyed heat extractor vents, chrome front grille and beltline molding accents, and gloss-black front console box with lids.

Power for the Lancer Evolution sedan is generated by the 4B11 2.0L turbo-charged four-cylinder engine - based on the design that powered Finnish racing legend Tommi Mäkinen to four straight titles in the grueling World Rally Championship (WRC). Consisting of a reinforced cast-aluminum block and an aluminum cylinder head and fitted with the latest edition of Mitsubishi Motors' innovative MIVEC variable valve-timing system, this impressive prime mover's architecture features a “square” design as both its bore and stroke measure an equal 86.0 mm, accompanied by a compression ratio of 9.0:1.

Torque is communicated to the pavement through one of two distinct transmissions – a rifle bolt-precise short-throw five-speed manual gearbox for the GSR and a highly advanced and lightning-quick six-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic® Shift Transmission (TC-SST) for the premium MR. Shifting almost instantaneously up or down through the gears via paddle shifters behind the steering wheel or by the console-mounted gear selector, the twin-clutch transmission utilizes a pair of multi-plate wet clutches to perform its rapid-fire shifting duties at a much faster rate than that of a conventional automatic transmission or manual gearbox.

Furthermore, drivers get to choose between three automatic drive modes to get the most out of the Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST): “Normal,” “Sport” and “S-Sport.” In “Normal” mode, the vehicle drives similar to most automatic transmission-equipped vehicles. With the “Sport” mode, shift points are moved higher up in the rev range, with the actual shifts occurring at a quicker pace. The “S-Sport” level kicks things up a notch, holding each gear closer to the redline.

One of the most sophisticated all-wheel drive systems ever developed for a production car, the Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system, working in concert with the Lancer Evolution's superbly engineered suspension, provides an otherworldly degree of performance and tractability. To more precisely maximize the S-AWC system's performance, the driver can choose between three selectable traction mode settings – “Tarmac,” “Gravel” and “Snow,” the latter setting providing maximum tractability and performance in poor weather/road conditions and/or on low- grip surfaces.

Additionally, the S-AWC dynamic handling system regulates drive torque at each wheel by controlling a network of dynamic handling technologies including: Active Center Differential (ACD) four-wheel drive, Active Yaw Control (AYC) rear differential, Active Stability Control (ASC), and Sport ABS brakes. A helical gear-type limited-slip front differential is used.

The Lancer Evolution features inverted struts in front and a rear multi-link configuration. Forged aluminum components reduce unsprung weight. The MR model is equipped exclusively with Bilstein shock absorbers, Eibach springs, two-piece brake rotors and BBS forged-alloy wheels.

Inside the passenger cabin the Evolution displays international flair. Available user technology includes Rockford Fosgate audio and navigation systems, reflecting the tastes of a broadening customer base.

Dimensions & specifications
Wheelbase: 104.3; overall length: 177.0; width: 71.3; height: 58.3
All vehicle measurements are in inches

Engine: 2.0L four-cylinder turbo - 291 hp at 6,500 rpm and 300 lbs-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm
Transmission: five-speed manual, six-speed automated manual
EPA Fuel Economy: 17 city/23 highway (manual); 17 city/22 highway (automatic)
Cargo capacity: 6.9 cubic feet

Safety features
Dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, curtain side airbags, driver’s knee airbag, active stability control, active center differential, front helical limited slip differential, rear mechanical limited slip differential, active yaw control, traction control, four-wheel performance disc brakes with anti-lock, electronic brake force distribution, Bluetooth hands free phone system, tire pressure monitoring system, daytime running lights, fog lights, engine immobilizer, anti-theft security alarm system, and remote keyless entry. MR adds automatic high-intensity discharge headlamps, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and FAST key.

Optional safety features include navigation system and rear park assist sensors.

Warranty
Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile Bumper-to-bumper
Powertrain: 5-year/60,000 mile
Corrosion: 7-year/100,000 mile
Roadside Assistance: 3-year/36,000 mile 24-hour

Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price for the 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution starts from $34,495 for the GSR and $38,995 for the MR. Destination charges add $810.