Mitsubishi's in-house tuner, the Lancer Evolution is the delightful result of dropping high-performance mechanicals into the comparatively meek compact Lancer sedan. Like its many fans, the Evolution focuses on speed and handling above anything else a car can offer.
What's New for 2015
The GSR model is now available with a Premium package.
Choosing Your Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
The Evo, as it's known on the street, gets its power from a 2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes an impressive 291 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque. The engineers certainly deserve kudos for extracting that much thrust out of a mere 2 liters. The Evo makes it from zero to 60 mph in about 4.9 seconds. All-wheel drive comes standard, and you have a choice of a five-speed manual transmission or six-speed automated manual with paddle shifters, dubbed Sportronic. The aggressive suspension setup has a no-nonsense firmness to it that enthusiasts will love, even though others may find it too harsh. The payoff is remarkable handling that's fit for a racetrack.
The Evo is available in two trim levels:

GSR
Comes with the manual transmission only, plus standard equipment such as automatic climate control, a voice-activated electronics interface, Bluetooth phone and audio, and a six-speaker sound system with satellite radio. Outside, the GRS wears 18-inch alloy wheels and a large wing-type rear spoiler. The available Sight and Sound package tacks on high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps, keyless access and ignition, and a nine-speaker Rockford Fosgate surround-sound system. Stepping up to the Premium package gets you all that plus leather seating with front heat, an upgraded center console, a sunroof and extra sound insulation.

MR
Features the automated manual transmission along with lightweight forged alloy wheels, two-piece front brake rotors, a small lip spoiler and height-adjustable xenon headlamps. The MR's suspension is a touch softer to improve ride quality. All but a handful of the GSR's options are standard on the MR. Those that aren't -- the leather seats, sunroof and sound insulation -- come in the Touring package.
Both models are available with appearance packages for the interior, exterior and engine compartment. The only major standalone options are rear parking sensors and a navigation system with real-time traffic and 3D mapping.
With its automated manual transmission and slightly softer suspension, the MR is the clear choice if you need a car you can live with everyday. The GSR is for the hardcore racers among us and delivers exactly what that group expects.
Choose your Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution »
