The Mitsubishi Evo X went on sale in Japan on October 1, and we expect it to arrive in the U.S. shortly. This car is the World Rally Car version of the Mitsubishi Lancer, a car marked by its high performance and affordability.
The engine uses Mitsubishi's variable valve timing and engine management system, dubbed MIVEC. The intercooled turbocharged 2-liter four cylinder engine is more powerful and efficient that previous versions.
We can't wait to get our hand on one of these. This is the shifter that comes with the six speed SST transmission. Although it is a manual transmission, its two clutches are worked by servos and a computer, making shift times faster than a standard manual.
The driver can choose from three different modes--Tarmac, Gravel, and Snow--in which to set the all-wheel-drive system. If the car comes with the hard-drive-based navigation and music server, this switch is moved down to the center console, with audio control buttons taking its place on the steering wheel spoke.
Mitsubishi keeps the dashboard fairly clean, with an LCD and three dials for climate control on the center stack. This Japanese version of the car has right-hand drive.
The front sport seats in the Evo X look comfortable and supportive, with high side bolsters. But the rear seats look cramped. Expect a lot of "shotgun" calls from your friends when taking this car out.
We like the Mitsubishi Multi Communication System, which we've seen on the regular Mitsubishi Lancer. It includes navigation and a 30GB hard drive. The maps are loaded onto the hard drive, making response time faster than with a DVD-based system. Also, you can load MP3s onto the hard drive, as well, keeping a music library in your car.
