Mitsubishi Releases Lancer Evolution Wagon

Lancer Evolution Wagon marries the awesome dynamic performance of the Lancer Evolution IX high-performance 4WD sedan, which employs Mitsubishi's advanced and proprietary All Wheel Control (AWC) traction and stability enhancing technology, with the utility-enhancing luggage compartment of the Lancer Wagon. Lancer Evolution Wagon will only be available at MMC affiliated dealerships throughout Japan.

Lancer Evolution Wagon is the first station wagon model in the Lancer Evolution series. Derived from the Lancer Evolution IX sedan launched in March 2005, Lancer Evolution Wagon uses the body side panels and roof panel from the Lancer Wagon with reinforcements mainly focused on the rear end to create a lightweight and very stiff station wagon body. The powertrain mates a 2.0-litre intercooler-turbocharged engine to an electronically controlled 4WD driveline to realize unparalleled vehicle dynamics for a station wagon.

Lancer Evolution Wagon is offered in two grades. The GT uses a 6-speed manual transmission to deliver the ultimate in sporty driving pleasure. The 5-speed automatic transmission GT-A brings full-spectrum driving pleasure, combining the sporty performance of the GT with the convenience of an automatic. Lancer Evolution Wagon is to be produced in a limited run of 2,500 (GT and GT-A combined total), with production due to cease at the end of December this year.

Lancer Evolution Wagon Exterior

The design melds together Lancer Evolution IX's aggressive front end styling and Lancer Wagon's squarish rear end. Rear blister fenders and a rear bumper that take their design cues from Evolution IX are used to give Evolution Wagon a low-&-wide look.

Brilliant chrome headlamp extensions enhance the overall quality look. A chrome "LANCER Evolution" logo at the bottom left of the rear gate together with air outlet-look quarter lower garnish on the rear blister fenders identify Evolution Wagon's tail.

Interior

Lancer Evolution Wagon's interior is distinguished from Evolution IX by the use of a chrome finish for the air vent controls and door handles to lend a slightly classier touch to the interior.

Both grades use the same Momo steering wheel as Evolution IX. GT also shares the alloy accelerator, brake and clutch pedals used on its sedan cousin. GT-A uses the same accelerator pedal but has a slightly larger alloy brake pedal.

Lancer Evolution Wagon models are fitted with Recaro full bucket front seats upholstered with a combination of non-slip coated fabric, comfortable Alcantara suede and genuine leather. The thigh bolsters are lower than on Evolution IX to facilitate easy entry and exit while still providing optimum location and hold. The rear seat uses the same 60/40 split back configuration as the Lancer Wagon but features Alcantara suede back and squab facings with protein leather on the side bolsters. The rear seat back has 5 reclining settings for greater occupant comfort.

Measuring VDA 530-litres (5 occupants, luggage tonneau cover not deployed), the luggage compartment is slightly smaller than in Lancer Wagon. The 60/40 split rear seatback, roll-up tonneau cover, 3-section luggage compartment underbox, four securing hooks and accessory power socket together yield a high-utility and easy-to-use luggage compartment.

Powertrain

The GT grade uses the latest 4G63-type MIVEC intercooler-turbocharged engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission to generate flat and wide torque with excellent response at all engine speeds. Producing maximum output of 280 bhp at 6500 rpm and 289 lb-ft at 3000 rpm of torque, the engine gives Evolution Wagon performance that is unmatched in the station wagon category. The GT-A powertrain mates the 4G63-type intercooler-turbocharged engine, with its smaller turbocharger giving outstanding low-end and mid-range torque and response, to a 5-speed automatic transmission. The power unit generates maximum output of 272 bhp at 6500 rpm and 253 lb-ft at 3000 rpm of torque to deliver top ranking performance for an automatic model.

Story by Mitsubishi