Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) today announced that the Lancer Evolution IX MR high-performance 4WD sports sedan (GSR/RS) and the Lancer Evolution Wagon MR high-performance 4WD sports wagon (GT/GT-A) go on sale at affiliated dealerships throughout Japan on August 29, 2006. The MR designation is an abbreviation for Mitsubishi Racing, and is restricted to the most prominent sports model in Mitsubishi's line-up. The new models are the second group of MR models released by MMC; the first being the Lancer Evolution VIII MR launched in February 2004. Tax inclusive prices range from 2,856,000yen to 3,622,500yen for Lancer Evolution IX MR (GSR/RS), and from 3,412,500yen to 3,486,000yen for Lancer Evolution Wagon MR (GT/GT-A).
The new models mark the 14th iteration of the series that began with the Lancer Evolution in October 1992. The sedan and station wagon are third-generation compilation models and are designed with a focus on on-road sports driving. They will also be the last models to use the famed 4G63 2L DOHC intercooled turbo engine. The current engine incorporates new improvements to the turbocharger and other areas to enhance response, teamed with Eibach springs and Bilstein shock absorbers used on earlier models to produce a package that includes tuning to lower the ride height. The Super AYC control system is also tuned to give a sportier feeling, achieving superb handling performance that is particularly faithful to driver input in on-road sports driving. This advances the all-wheel-control (AWC) concept, delivering intuitive steering combined with outstanding stability.
The Lancer Evolution IX MR is available in two grades: the GSR, with a 6-speed manual gearbox designed for excellence in everyday driving as well in sports driving; and the RS, which has a 5-speed manual gearbox and is stripped down for motorsport competition. The Lancer Evolution Wagon MR also has two grades. The GT is equipped with a 6-speed manual gearbox enabling the driver to enjoy sports driving to the fullest. The GT-A has a 5-speed automatic gearbox with sports mode to provide flexibility in a wide range of scenarios from easy driving to sport driving.
