Cars Scoop: Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX MR FQ-360: EVO ends its UK career with a 366Hp limited edition version

A word of advice to all you EVO-lovers out there in the UK: If you want an EVO and you have the dough, just go and buy this one and forget you even heard about the Lancer EVO X that’s coming in 2008. The Lancer EVO IX is definitely going to go down as one of the greatest cars of all time, a sure classic of the future. What else do you need; this one gets a Ralliart kit and a blistering 366Hp -good enough for a 0-60mph time in 3,9 sec! Damn, I really want one…

Press Release: Mitsubishi Motors UK has unveiled the final edition of the current generation Lancer Evolution supercar. Just one version of the new Evolution IX MR (‘Mitsubishi Racing’) will be available, powered by a 366bhp version of Mitsubishi’s 2.0-litre turbo engine. 200 units of the Evolution IX MR FQ-360 are now available from Mitsubishi Ralliart dealers, priced from £34,539.

Subtle changes to the specification of the 1997cc 4-cylinder 4G63 twin scroll turbo engine have created a car that delivers an even higher level of performance. True to Mitsubishi’s philosophy of providing “overall driving quality”, the engineers in Japan have made subtle modifications to the turbocharger. The introduction of titanium aluminium alloy turbo fins and reduction in the compressor wheel inlet diameter have improved the engine’s response throughout the rev range.

When the cars arrive in the UK, further engine development work is carried out by Mitsubishi Motors UK’s tuning division, Ralliart, and the independent specialists, HKS. An HKS tuning kit delivers 366bhp at 6887rpm and 363lb ft (492Nm) of torque at 3200rpm. Mitsubishi’s MIVEC variable valve timing technology further enhances the engine’s efficiency, combining improved response with a 3% reduction in fuel consumption.

The Lancer Evolution FQ-360’s performance underlines its reputation as the most affordable supercar on the road. This is a practical, five-seater saloon car that can sprint from 0-60mph in just 3.9 seconds and on to an electronically limited top speed of 157mph. By comparison, the Porsche 911 Carrera 4S, which costs almost twice as much, takes 0.9 seconds longer to reach 60mph from rest.

The engine upgrades are accompanied by subtle but effective changes to the ‘Evo’s’ MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension. Eibach springs have been introduced to complement the Bilstein shock absorbers. These new springs lower the ride height by 10mm at the front and 5mm at the rear, which enhances the car’s high speed stability and allows the Super Active Yaw Control (Super AYC) system to function more effectively. The latter has also been improved to provide a greater distribution of power between the rear wheels, increasing traction, especially on loose surfaces. Mitsubishi’s electronically-controlled four-wheel drive system (4WD) is carried over unchanged.

The aesthetic changes are modest and functional. A new carbon fibre front lip spoiler has been developed to provide additional downforce and improve high speed stability. A rear carbon fibre vortex generator comes fitted as standard. The 11-spoke Speedline Turini alloy wheels are also new and mimic those fitted to Mitsubishi’s tarmac spec rally car. The Yokohama ADVAN AO46 235/45 ZR17 tyres are carried over unchanged, while the Brembo braking system ensures that the Evolution IX MR has the stop to match its go.

The changes inside are equally subtle. Automatic headlights and privacy glass are introduced for the first time, the seats have been redesigned with ‘IX MR’ motifs, the dashboard panel is now finished in ‘Piano Black’ and there are ‘Lancer EVOLUTION’ aluminium scuff protectors on the door frames. Enthusiasts will be delighted to hear that the rally-bred Recaro seats and exquisite Momo steering wheel remain present and correct.

The Lancer Evolution has always been a thoroughly practical, everyday car, and the final edition is no exception. The cabin can seat five in comfort and the boot has a capacity of 530 litres. It is also comprehensively equipped with air-conditioning, electric windows and mirrors, remote central locking and CAT 1 alarm included in the specification.

Key Features
Final edition of the current legendary Lancer Evolution supercar
On-sale now priced from £34,539
1997cc turbo engine modified with ECU remap and HKS tuning pack (racing suction pipe, intercooler piping kit, stainless steel down pipe, super dragger exhaust system, high pressure fuel pump assembly, sports cat)
New turbo with titanium aluminium alloy turbo fins and reduction in compressor inlet diameter
MIVEC variable valve timing
Tuned for driveability: 366bhp@6887rpm and 363lb ft@3200rpm
0-60mph 3.9 seconds, electronically limited to 157mph
17in, 11-spoke Speedline Turini alloy wheels mimic tarmac-spec rally car
Redesigned carbon fibre front lip spoiler improves aerodynamic efficiency
Rear carbon fibre vortex generator
Subtle interior revisions include introduction of ‘Piano black’ fascia inserts and aluminium scuff protectors in the door frames
Comprehensive luxury specification includes climate control, leather/Alcantara trim, Recaro seats, Momo steering wheel
Automatic headlights and privacy glass introduced for the first time
Spacious five seater with 530litre boot capacity offering everyday practicality
Eibach springs introduced to complement Bilstein shock absorbers. Car lowered by 10mm at the front and 5mm at the rear for improved stability
Uprated Super Active Yaw Control (Super AYC) system
Brembo brakes and electronically-controlled 4WD system unchanged