Make Way For The Mitsubishi Evolution IX

[gamerno1]

Bred from legendary racing DNA and a legacy of heart-pounding excitement on the FIA world rally circuit, the striking new 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX was introduced at the 2005 New York International Automobile Show. Loaded with power and aerodynamic enhancements culled from Mitsubishi's rally-racing success during the past 13 years, the Lancer Evolution IX further distinguishes the vehicle as the undisputable leader in the high-performance compact sedan market.

This latest edition to the Lancer Evolution model line, designed to compete against far more expensive sports cars, easily lives up to its Mitsubishi motorsports pedigree. By combining brute power and graceful agility, the Lancer Evolution IX is sure to raise the adrenaline of driving enthusiasts at every turn.

Charged with taking the Lancer Evolution driving experience to the next level, Mitsubishi engineers complemented the vehicle's unmatched riding and handling characteristics - refined on the world's most demanding test tracks - with even more power and torque for 2006.

Born From a Rally-Racing Legacy

The 2006 Lancer Evolution is the 12th model in a series of Mitsubishi Motors' award-winning, Evolution high-performance compact sedans. It was originally introduced to satisfy FIA Group A rally specifications that called for a production model. Beginning in 1992, Mitsubishi Motors exclusively offered it in the Japanese and European markets, with no plans to bring it to the United States.

A continuous groundswell of rave reviews from automotive media and ardent performance addicts worldwide, however, pressured Mitsubishi Motors North America to introduce the Lancer Evolution to U.S. drivers in 2003.

Since then, the vehicle has lived up to the hype. Mirroring the success of the Mitsubishi rally racing program, the racing-inspired Lancer Evolution has received numerous industry accolades. It is one of Automobile Magazine's 2005 All-Stars and was Automobile of the Year in 2004. Sport Compact Car awarded Lancer Evolution "Car of the Year" for both 2004 and 2005, as well as named it the best sport compact car of all time in its October 2004 issue.

Mechanical

The 2006 Lancer Evolution features a standard two-liter DOHC 16-valve I-4 intercooled turbocharged engine, which is enhanced this year with variable valve technology (VVT). This Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing and lift Electronic Control (MIVEC) system utilizes a VVT sprocket to optimize valve timing relative to the engine condition. This technological advancement, combined with enhancements to the vehicle's turbocharger, produces higher torque and better response for improved engine performance across the Lancer Evolution IX's full rpm range. The improved powerplant reaches 286 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 289 foot-pounds of torque at a very low 3,500 rpm.

New gear ratios on the models' standard five-speed manual transmission take full advantage of the increased torque to improve the vehicle's already blistering acceleration. This transmission is derived from the Mitsubishi close-ratio competition gearbox but has a modified top gear ratio for improved high-speed cruising. The Lancer Evolution MR features a six-speed close-ratio manual transmission.

All three Evolution models feature a rally-tuned fully independent suspension; the MR utilizes Bilstein" monotube shock absorbers. Full-time all-wheel drive with an active center differential (ACD) provides improved steering response and better traction. Three ACD modes are provided - tarmac, gravel and snow - to enable quicker controlled response for changes in road conditions. The Lancer Evolution also features front- and rear-limited slip differentials, and four-wheel ventilated Brembo disc brakes to help control the beast.

Exterior

True to its racing heritage, the Lancer Evolution IX also features a number of exterior enhancements to further improve the aerodynamics and cooling performance of the vehicle. A new front fascia houses an oversize mesh grille and front center bumper air inlets to improve engine-cooling efficiency.

In addition, all unnecessary openings on the undersurface of the bumper have been closed to reduce air resistance. The rear wing assembly features a carbon fiber hollow spoiler that lowers the center of gravity of the Lancer Evolution IX.

A new air dam extension and rear-wing wicker bill also are available as dealer options. These advanced aerodynamic devices improve the high-speed handling and stability of the Lancer Evolution IX by increasing downforce, reducing front and rear wheel lift and enhancing the front-rear aerodynamic balance of the vehicle.

The Lancer Evolution rides on all-new 17x8-inch ENKEI" lightweight cast aluminum alloy wheels, while the MR rolls on 17x8-inch BBS forged aluminum rims. All three models feature 235/45 R17 Yokohama ADVAN high-grip tires. The vehicle's aggressive appearance is further updated with new extended smoked front and rear lamp bezels.

Interior

Complementing the performance and exterior enhancements, Mitsubishi Motors engineers also updated the Lancer Evolution IX interior to further assure drivers they are riding in a very special automobile.

Standard Recaro bucket seats feature Alcantara upholstery that keeps occupants comfortable even on long journeys, while generous side bolsters feature real leather accents and help hold passengers securely in place during spirited driving. The new seat configuration also makes it easier to slip in and out of the vehicle, while adding a touch of understated luxury.

The driver is strapped in front of a racing-inspired new dark titanium color, three-spoke, height-adjustable Momo steering wheel. Aluminum accelerator, brake and clutch pedals on the IX and MR models provide additional cues to the Lancer Evolution IX's high-performance roots. Rich, carbon fiber-style instrument, center and shift panels further illustrate this is not your typical compact sedan - designed as much for rally-racing as everyday driving.

The Lancer Evolution is equipped with a 140-watt Mitsubishi CD audio system with six speakers. Audiophiles will enjoy the 315-watt Premium Mitsubishi/Infinity CD audio system featuring seven speakers, including a subwoofer, available as an option on the Evolution IX.

Accessory Packages

The standard Lancer Evolution RS accessory package provides additional styling and performance accents, including a manual transmission shift knob and turbo boost gauge kit (boost, voltage and oil pressure gauges). An exclusive accessory package also is standard for the Lancer Evolution MR, including an aluminum shift knob, carbon fiber and aluminum brake grip, color-keyed vortex generator, wheel locks and turbo gauge kit.

Specifications :

Engine
Type: Inline-4, Turbocharged
Displacement cu in (cc): 122 (1997)
Power bhp (kW) at RPM: 286(213) / 6500
Torque lb-ft (Nm) at RPM: 289(392) / 3500
Redline at RPM: 7000

Brakes & Tires
Brakes F/R: ABS, vented disc/vented disc
Tires F-R: 235/45 R17
Driveline: All Wheel Drive

Exterior Dimensions & Weight
Length × Width × Height in: 178.5 × 69.7 × 57.1
Weight lb (kg): 3285 (1490)

Performance
Acceleration 0-62 mph s: n.a.
Top Speed mph (km/h): n.a.

Fuel Economy EPA city/highway mpg (l/100 km): n.a.

A Few Pics :





My Views :
I have always craved for the eclipse but the evo IX is a heartstealer! what raw power man. its a baby to have.

[iceman91]

i think i would still go fro the evo MR....THAT IS ONE babe

[GTO]

I know that the VII, VIII and IX are entire generations newer and faster/more efficient blah blah blah. But why dont they have the character or the presence of the EVO VI? (Saying this after seeing VII's in person)

Its impossible, but give me a brand new EVO VI Tommi Makkinen ed any day. That Lancer body style is just to die for.

GTO

[Shan2nu]

I somehow still prefer the Evo VIII. FQ 330 or the FQ 400.



Shan2nu

[jesal]

looks good all good but i want that evo VI style kit and everything still my fav.

[comfortablywacky]

Completely agree with GTO,moreover from the EVO 6 onwards except for some minor aerodynamic enhancements there's been littele or no any change in external design

EVO 6


EVO7

EVO8

[gamerno1]

well every here like the old evos but agree with most of you that after evo6, thr has not been drastic improvements visually!