It might be déjà vu for those who came to the recently concluded motorshow. But for those who missed it, here's our exclusive coverage on the Mitsubishi with nine lives (so far).

By now, the mere mention of Mitsubishi's Evolution series instantly bring images of a (usually) red machine leaving behind a wake of trailing dust while competing in rally competitions across the world. Never mind the fact that the manufacturer has officially withdrawn from practically all but one major rally championships until most probably 2007/2008, but who can deny the impact this particular car has imprinted upon the savagely skillful drivers among us?

As a matter of perspective, one look at Citroen's Xsara does not bring the same effect regardless of the fact it is for the past few years is the more visible in the hands of a young champ by the name of Sebastian Loeb. The same can be said of the Peugeot 307; both factory teams of which have also suspended their participation in rallying's pinnacle race series.

The only names that can probably match Mitsubishi's legend in off-road racing is Subaru and Ford, yet even then, Tommi Makinen's four consecutive Championship wins with Mitsubishi Ralliart Team between 1996 to 1999 sealed it permanently for both the person and manufacturer.

Even with their obvious shocking departure from WRC, Mitsubishi is still in high gears with their involvement in the Evolution series. With the introduction of IX at last year's New York International Auto Show, I guess we'll have to wait with bated breath on what it can achieve on the punishing trails it is best designed for.

But for those who just like the new Evolution IX (or let's just call it 9 sometimes for practical purposes) as it is, the standard version delivers you as much thrill as the previous ones had, and more! With the Mitsubishi Innovative Valve-timing-and-lift Engine Control (MIVEC) thrown into the mix, it was first received with quite a pleasant surprise since everyday users have been doing that for quite a while with past MIVEC engines. It seems that the automotive giant is trying to milk every possible ounce of performance from every possible angle. But the result is interesting to say the least.

(The rest of the article can be found in Hypertune Vol. 57)

Text: Cimatt
Photo: Victor Chen & Kenny Yeoh

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