2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Review

Overview

The 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is a boldly styled high-performance compact sedan that showcases the latest performance and handling technology, including an all-aluminum 291-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged/intercooled engine and the Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) dynamic handling system. The new Lancer Evolution continues to offer one of the most thrilling rides with a long list of features, an available automated-clutch manual gearbox and a new trim level. It is available in GSR, MR and MR Touring trims.

Power and performance

A turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 291 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque is standard on all 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution trims. The GSR is equipped with a five-speed manual transmission only. The MR and MR Touring come with Mitsubishi's excellent a 6-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST), a new-generation automated manual transmission with both console-mounted shifter and magnesium steering wheel paddle shifters and offers manual and fully automatic modes. According to the EPA-estimated fuel economy estimates, the new Lancer Evolution GSR delivers 16 miles per gallon in city and 22 miles on highway and 18 mpg combined. The Lancer Evolution MR and MR Touring models deliver 17/22/19 mpg city/highway/combined.

Body and styling

The 2010 Lancer Evolution features a shark-nosed front end inspired by jet fighter air intakes and a distinct wedge-like profile and trendy, taut lines. Updated larger side air dams, tail lamps with black extensions and a short pole 200mm antenna are new for the 2010 model year. Inside, the Lancer Evolution provides a "class up" approach with a new international flair and includes RECARO semi-bucket racing seats with fixed head rests, leather-wrapped sport steering wheel and BREMBO Braking System. The GSR rolls on 18-inch alloy wheels with various features like full power accessories, keyless entry, cruise control, fog lights, Bluetooth and a six-speaker CD stereo with an auxiliary audio jack. The new MR trim comes exclusively with Bilstein shock absorbers and Eibach springs, two-piece front brake rotors for better heat dissipation, BBS forged-alloy wheels, HID headlamps and additional interior features. The MR Touring model includes premium options as a power glass sunroof, leather seating surfaces with heated front seats, rear lip spoiler, automatic on/off headlamps, insulated front windshield glass, and improved sound insulation. A Rockford Fosgate audio system is standard on the MR and MR Touring trims. A hard-drive-based navigation system with 40GB of digital music storage is also available.

Safety Features

Mitsubishi has packed the new Lancer Evolution with a host of safety features. It is built around Mitsubishi's next-generation Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) unibody design that enhances occupant protection and also helps to protect the fuel system by dispersing energy loads during side and rear crashes and controls distortion. An advanced dual front air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with occupant sensors, standard front seat-mounted side-impact air bags and side curtain air bags, plus a driver's knee air bag are among its standard safety features. The standard anti-lock braking system (Sports ABS) integrates electronic brake-force distribution (EBD).