Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX

Evolution is the name of the game here and this new Lancer delivers what its nameplate promises. Slight tweaks to the turbocharger and the addition of variable valve timing, but not lift, reduce turbo lag and add 10 horsepower for a total of 286. The new Enkei aluminum rims shed 3.3 pounds apiece over the old saucers. Some aero tweaks, particularly to the front fascia, improve cooling flow, reduce air resistance and add downforce. Finally, new Recaro leather seats with generous side bolsters keep you steady while cornering at an unruly pace. And that's all!Three versions are offered, as with the VIII: the spartan RS, which sneaks under the $30K price cap; the more lavish Evo; and the six-speed (the others make do with five) Evo MR, with Bilstein monotube shocks and BBS alloys. No matter which one you choose, the real business starts after 3000rpm when the turbo hits its stride and the torque peak looms close and the whole world rather tends to explode. The steering, grip and body control of the Evo make it particularly hard not to love this car. The ride is choppy and bouncy, as usual. At high speeds, the 9 is a little more stable than the 8, and with its newfound power, it also squirts to 60mph a tenth or two quicker.Note that the Japanese market GSR is roughly equal to the North American MR, in that it features a six-speed gearbox and Bilstein monotube shocks, plus Active Yaw Control (AYC) and a higher torque peak of 295 lb-ft.The price also evolves slightly, to the tune of about an extra $500 for each of the three versions. Get yours quickly and help save Mitsubishi! - by Traian Popescu

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