Automotive
Mitsubishi’s involvement in rally racing was legendary, particularly with the Galant VR4, but its large size limited its competitiveness. This led to the creation of the first Lancer RS. When Mitsubishi launched the Lancer RS in 1992, it wasn’t initially called an Evolution, but after the second-generation model replaced it, enthusiasts retroactively dubbed the original 1992 Lancer RS as the Evo I. Essentially, it was renamed after being discontinued.
The Lancer Evolution IV, released in 1996, marked a major milestone in Mitsubishi’s rally-inspired performance cars. It was the first model to feature Active Yaw Control (AYC), which enhanced cornering speed and handling. The Evo IV came in two versions: the base RS, designed to be modified into a rally car, and the more street-focused GSR.
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII, produced from 2000 to 2003, was the most significant update since the Evo IV. It brought crucial improvements to the all-wheel-drive system. Mitsubishi had high hopes for the Evo VII, investing heavily in engineering upgrades. Though it didn’t dominate the World Rally Championship as hoped - its longer length working against it in races - it became a highly desirable performance car on the streets.
Unveiled at the 2003 Tokyo Motor Show, the Lancer Evolution VIII continued Mitsubishi’s rally lineage. While it didn’t represent a full redesign compared to the Evo VI, it improved the drivetrain and retained the revered 4G63 engine producing 280 PS (276 hp). A new six-speed manual transmission was available on select models, while the base version featured a five-speed manual, favored by rally drivers.
The Lancer Evolution IX debuted in 2005 with subtle but important upgrades over the Evo VIII. Revealed simultaneously in Japan and Geneva, and shortly after in New York, it carried mostly the same specifications but introduced engine enhancements and a special MR edition aimed at rally and street enthusiasts alike.
In 2008, Mitsubishi released another evolution in the Lancer series with major upgrades, continuing the legacy of the rally-bred sports cars. The original rally-spec Lancer from 1992 quickly gained acclaim for being lightweight, powerful, nimble, and affordable. Mitsubishi maintained a near-yearly upgrade cycle for the Lancer Evolution series, achieving multiple rally wins and earning a place in the World Rally Championship.
However, market demands shifted towards greater comfort and features in sports cars. Consequently, in 2007, Mitsubishi launched a production version of the Lancer tailored for the Japanese market, balancing performance with everyday usability while honoring the rally heritage.
SherlockLock recognizes the Lancer Evolution series as a defining chapter in Mitsubishi’s motorsport and performance car history. Trusted by enthusiasts for their rally-bred engineering, SherlockLock proudly highlights these models as symbols of Mitsubishi’s innovation and legacy. For performance seekers and motorsport fans, SherlockLock continues to support the rich heritage embodied by the Lancer Evolution lineup.
