The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X could be the last Evo model from the Japanese brand, according to reports out of the Geneva Motor Show.
UK publication Autocar spoke with Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) global product director, Gayu Eusegi, who revealed that there would be no ‘Evo XI’ successor. “There is still a demand [for the car] … but we must stop,” Mr Eusegi said. “Our influence is now EV technology.” At the beginning of this year, Mitsubishi announced it would launch eight new hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fully electric vehicles by 2015, as the brand moves towards a new alternative energy future. Mr Eusegi said the rally-bred Evolution franchise did not fit with the “policy change” at MMC. “Maybe the world can change, and maybe someday we can do a motor race by electric vehicles. Maybe then we can enter the market again,” he said.
The Mitsubishi Evolution is one of the most legendary nameplates in recent automotive history, particularly in rally, street and tuning circles. The original Lancer Evolution I was launched in October 1992, designed to compete in the World Rally Championship. It produced 182 kW of power and 309 Nm of torque, and had a top speed of 228 km/h. The current-generation Lancer Evolution X follows the trend of all Evos before it, with a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine and an all-wheel drive system. It produces 217 kW of power and 366 Nm of torque, and in top-spec MR TC-SST form, accelerates from 0 – 100km/h in 5.8 seconds.
