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2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR

June 25, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR: Another Good Day

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It was our turn to help out with Meals on Wheels again. This time we took along the Evo MR. Not the biggest trunk in the world, but we chose it based on its navigation system.

The split screen on the nav was very helpful. We had the full view of the map on the right, with a close-up of our route instructions on the left. The nav lady's voice is much more soothing than the officious woman in the Audi A4 we took along last time.

The trunk was a little cramped but we managed just fine. The back of the Evo is much easier to lift than the heavy door of the A4.

And with the 291-horsepower turbocharged engine, we completed our route in record time. Met lots of nice people again, too.

It was a good day.

Donna DeRosa, Managing Editor

June 23, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR: Got Gas?

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It says right here that the Mitsubishi Lancer Evo's fuel tank measures out to 14.6 gallons. If you use our 17.3 mpg observed fuel economy over the course of 19,281 miles (which meets the EPA's estimate of 17 mpg city for the Evo MR with its dual-clutch automated manual transmission), this works out to a cruising range of 247 miles.

Maybe this is plenty for a hobby car, but it's not enough for a real-world automobile.

It's especially not enough when you're dealing with the Lancer Evo's little electronic bar graph that functions as a fuel gauge, which hovers hopefully at the half-tank mark too long, only to precipitously plunge toward empty too late. Plus the trip computer's DTE (Distance to Empty) calculation goes blank when the estimate is less than 50 miles. And the low-fuel warning light comes on only after this, when it's really time to panic.

Over the course of the last year, the MR's fuel log indicates that even our group of reluctant refuelers all caved in and found the gas station before 200 miles. And yet even those brave enough to challenge the 220-mile mark rarely received a fill-up of more than 13.1 gallons for their trouble.

True enough, the Evo MR's EPA highway rating of 22 mpg suggest that your visits to the gas station could come at 315-mile intervals when you're traveling out there on the Interstate. And sure it's difficult to package a fuel tank in a car with all-wheel drive hardware. But this car needs more cruising range if it's going to break away from hobby car status.

Michael Jordan, Executive Editor @ 19,281 miles

June 17, 2009

The Answer

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Most of you got this right away. I was driving the 2008 Mitsubishi Evo X MR.

Our pal the Stig was standing on the driver seat leaning against the back rest.

Donna DeRosa, Managing Editor

June 15, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Evo X MR: Livable

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There are several cars in our long-term fleet that I could see myself owning as a daily driver.

Of course, there are the dreams cars. If I had a million dollars I would own an Audi R8. If I could afford to change the oil, I would drive a Nissan GT-R every day, even to the store around the corner, just because it's fun.

But if you take winning the lottery out of the equation, there are still some real cars I would own with no regrets. This weekend, I drove our Mitsubishi Evo MR. This is definitely a car I could own. I like the way it looks, the way the Recaro seats feel, the boost when I put my foot down. It sucks gas like a college freshman goes through beer and it has a smallish trunk, but it suits my lifestyle. I can even deal with that bookshelf that lives on its back.

Which cars in our fleet would you want to own in the real world?

Donna DeRosa, Managing Editor @ 18,927 miles

June 12, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Evo GSR: You Write the Caption

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Scott Oldham sent me this photo of the Evo GSR in front of the Velocity Cafe.

We offer you this: "My car may get 10 mpg but I drink organic coffee. My footprint is covered."

OK, that's way too long. How about "I'll have a half caf vanilla latte extra torquey, please."

It was getting late and we were running out of gas. I expect you'll be able to do better than us.

We'll post our favorite at 4 PM Pacific Time, unless I get the chance to leave early, then maybe you'll see it sooner.

Donna DeRosa, Managing Editor

June 10, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Evo GSR: To Wing or Not To Wing?

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What is wrong with you poeple? I thought I'd be a hero for dewinging our Evo, but the bulk of you like it better with that silly thing attached to its rump.   

I can't believe it. Hell, even Mitu has sold an Evo in the USA without a big, dumb salami slicer glued to the trunk. Here are a couple of shots of the lightweight Evo VIII RS. It was the baddest Evo you could buy back in 2004 and it is wingless, as is our long-term BMW M3 sedan I might add. And the Mercedes E63. You don't see Audi making any RS4s with buildings bolted to the trunk, do you? 

Man, get with the program. Smooth is in.  

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Scott Oldham, Inside Line Editor in Chief 

June 8, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X MR: Cement In Its Legs

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It happens every time I drive our long-term Evo X MR.

I approach it with a slight grimace. I can't believe this thing is based on the Dodge Caliber.

And I leave it with an appreciative grin. I can't believe this thing is based on the Dodge Caliber!

Yeah, Mitsubishi deserves a lot of credit for turning one of the most forgettable platforms in recent memory (Caliber, Compass, Patriot, Sebring, Journey...) into a world-class performance car.

Too bad it rides like the wheels are bolted to the frame, as my colleague Mr. DiPietro would say.

Do a search for "Evo X MR Bilstein" and you'll find plenty of plaudits for the supposedly compliant ride that the MR's exclusive Bilstein shocks and Eibach springs provide. Nonsense. This car turns barely visible freeway seams into seismic events. Whap! Ouch. What the hell? The MR's four doors hint at daily-driver practicality, but that's a check the suspension can't cash.

Josh Sadlier, Associate Editor, Edmunds.com @ 18,761 miles

June 4, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR: Are You a 'Normal' or a 'Sport'?

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Our executive editor Michael Jordan has given you the technical and philosophical lowdown on the Mitsubishi Evolution MR's Getrag-built twin-clutch transmission. Plus, we know from experience that the TC-SST (with its S-Sport mode) is the real deal if you want to go fast on a road course or mountain road.

But, I can't stop wanting this advanced transmission to feel like a regular automatic in traffic. Yep, I'm soft like that. And while TC-SST is probably the friendliest of all the automated dual-clutch boxes out there, I can't settle on a driving mode.

In "Normal," the car feels sluggish moving off the line and I feel like I'm always having to rethink my throttle input to compensate. But after I'm moving, the shift logic is spot-on for mindless drives around town.

In "Sport," our Evo MR moves off the line like I want it to, but then the TC-SST has you cruising in one gear too low for comfort. Also, downshifts are now rev-matched in a very obvious way, which feels gratuitous around town.

The upshot is that I'm continually switching between Normal and Sport, even when I'm just running errands. I think I'd rather get the cheaper Evo GSR and have more control over shift points and how the car responds to throttle input. But in saying that, I'm admitting that I don't care about being fast through corners: Even if I'm really on my game shifting the GSR's five-speed, I'm no match for the MR's TC-SST.

So, are you a Normal, a Sport or a Neither? Update: Or a Super Sport (S-Sport)?

Erin Riches, Senior Editor @ 18,444 miles

June 1, 2009

Big List of Fuel Economy - May Edition

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Here are the fuel economy numbers for 2009. We've listed the best, worst and overall average tanks.

As always, we were missing a few cars that were out of town or unavailable at the time of this writing. I'll add them as they come in and I'll let you know in the comments.

  Car
Best
Worst
Average
  2009 Audi A4 Avant
26.8
17.5
22.0
  2009 Audi S5
22.3
11.8
18.0
  2009 BMW 750i
21.8
12.4
18.2
  2002 BMW M3
23.5
12.3
17.5
  2009 BMW M3
18.8
9.6
15.4
  2008 Cadillac CTS
32.5
9.9
19.3
  2009 Dodge Challenger R/T
22.3
10.3
16.0
  2009 Ford Flex Limited
26.7
13.7
19.4
  2008 Ford Focus SES
40.6
16.6
26.7
  2007 Honda Civic GX
47.3
12.7
31.7
  2009 Honda Fit Sport
39.0
26.0
31.5
  2009 Hyundai Genesis
24.8
15.5
20.7
  2009 Infiniti FX50
21.8
10.7
17.0
  2009 Mazda 6
29.1
19.4
23.3
  2008 Mitsubishi Evo X MR
27.2
11.7
17.3
  2009 Nissan 370Z
24.4
13.7
18.2
  2009 Nissan GT-R
21.8
11.5
16.5
  2008 Pontiac G8 GT
24.0
12.0
17.5
  2008 Smart Fortwo Passion
43.4
23.5
33.4
  2009 Suzuki SX4
28.3
18.6
22.6
  2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI
43.0
28.7
35.0

After the jump you can see the list sorted by best average MPG.

Continue reading...

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR: Road Trippin'

Once again, I traveled a good distance in the MR, but this time it was for work. I did a straight shot east on interstate 10 for about 400 miles.

The MR was a caged beast this time 'round due to the large presence of speed cameras in Arizona. I thought I could just try to relax and enjoy the satellite radio, but the subscription ran out before I left LA. DAMN! Nothing but static for the majority of the drive through no-mans land (aka the Palm Desert).

Thankfully in Arizona I was able to let off some steam and get a little sideways.

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Scott Jacobs, Senior Photographer

May 26, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR: Fleet Week

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Fleet Week is ending its week-long run today in NYC. Back at the center of activities is the aircraft carrier USS Intrepid.

What does this vessel have in common with our long-term Mitsu Evo Ten MR? Both have gigantic turning radii. As Caroline also previously noted, the Evo MR's turning diameter is 38.7 feet. For comparsion, the 2009 Subaru WRX STI's turning circle is 36.1 feet. (The Intreprid's turning radius is probably several nautical miles, just a bit more than the Evo's.)

Turning radius is something we take for granted in most cars, but when you attempt a U-turn in the Evo MR, you can get an unpleasant surprise.

Everybody in our shop has commented about the Evo MR's poor outward field of view, both to the front and the rear. When this is combined with the large turning radius, parking isn't just an adventure, it's a job!

Belated Happy Memorial Day; and thanks to those who have served.

Albert Austria, Sr Vehicle Evaluation Engineer @ 17,151 miles

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May 23, 2009

Would I Buy One?

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Would I buy one? It's a question I ask myself whenever I slide behind the wheel of a car. Would I drop my hard earned money on one of these? Would I want to own it? Drive it for years? Look at it in my driveway? Tell people it's mine?

It's also the question you the reader ask me the most. So I've decided to go through all the cars we now have in our fleet and decide whether or not I would buy one. I also included a few recently departed vehicles. Seems appropriate since they just left us. 

Continue reading...

May 22, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR: Our Favorite Caption

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Thanks to ergsum for this week's favorite caption.

Here are some others that made us laugh:

In Jaws 5, the sneaky shark approaches victims from land. (oldchap)
Oh miss? Your calipers are showing. (miniharryc)
Evo X and Eve XXX (rick8365)
I'm going to wash that Subie right out of my hair (cowbell)
Eve, Evolution has arrived. (bedabibedabo)
Lancer??? I don't even know her. (vwthing1)
Do not be tempted by the mural...Nudie Rudy is inside the store. (vwthing1)
The Evolution of the forbidden fruit. (altimadude00)
Calgon take me away...and fast!! (m_thrizzle)

What was your favorite?

Donna DeRosa, Managing Editor

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR: You Write the Caption

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The Scotts took this photo of our Evo MR next to some colorful wall art.

I suggest "Deliver us from Evo."

What have you got?

When commenting, imagine that your mother will be reading what you wrote. PG-13, please.

OK, NC-17.

Donna DeRosa, Managing Editor

May 20, 2009

Separated At Birth: Evo Meet Darth

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Search your feelings, you know it to be true.

 

Scott Oldham, Inside Line Editor in Chief @ 16,631 miles

May 19, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR: Nudie Rudy And Pals

The main focus for my drive up to the White Mountains in our Evo MR the other day was to do a 10k trail run race near Bridgeport. My run time was somewhat pathetic. I'd like to say it was the high altitude, but my general lack of preparation lead to the pain and agony my body was feeling at that moment.

I drove the Evo back down towards where I was camping to recuperate and the wing on the back of this car finally broke me. Maybe because I was irritable due to the pain I was in, maybe it's because I like to check my mirrors often, but the blind spot it creates is very frustrating. I found myself cursing aloud at not being able to see the cars behind me as that damn wing completely obscures anything 40 yards behind you to the horizon.

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On the way back to my campsite, there are some natural hot springs that I thought my aching legs would enjoy. Unfortunately the pools were already filled with Nudie Rudy and his pals. I wish I had that wing in front of me now.

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Scott Jacobs, Senior Photographer

May 18, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR: Long Roads, Sharp Bones

A couple of concerns for a long trip in a car:

1) Snacks/Water

2) Music

3) Comfortable seats

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Surprisingly, the snug race style seats in the MR are very comfortable for me over the long haul. I found that the bolstering and support for my thighs/sides helped keep my butt from taking all the weight of my body into the seat cushion, slowly compressing the padding and making the seat uncomfortable.

After driving 400 miles, my legs and back were fresh. Thumbs up!

Scott Jacobs, Senior Photographer

2009 Mitsubishi Evo MR: Light Headed

I hit the road right after a sunrise shoot in Palmdale. I've always wanted to see the Ancient Bristlecone Forest in the White Mountains and it was only a few hours drive away. I didn't want to waste any time.

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Right before I got to the parking lot for the grove of Bristlecones, I saw a pull out with a view. One hell of a nice view it was back over to the eastern side of the Sierras. The only thing keeping me from really enjoying the beautiful vista was the thin air at 9,000 feet and a light headache.

Scott Jacobs, Senior Photographer

May 8, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Evolution MR: 15,000-mile Service

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In celebration of turning 15,000 miles the onboard computer informed us the Evolution MR was due for service. We scheduled an appointment with Long Beach Mitsubishi.

Edmunds Maintenance Guide estimated 15k service at $211. We paid a fair $214.15 for the oil/filter change, air filter replacement, tire rotation and the usual inspections and fluid top-offs. Also addressed was an open campaign on the hood release cable - - an issue we dealt with once already.

LB Mitsu is a relatively small shop and consequently more attentive to our needs. This personal touch adds an element to the service experience that high volume dealerships just can't replicate. Our advisor, Chris, has always been professional yet candid when discussing the details of work required. No gimmicks. We appreciate this informative, no-nonsense approach. So we keep going back.

There is a downside to low volume dealerships. Limited personnel. Their tech didn't have much experience performing the hood latch installation, so they requested to keep our MR overnight to complete the fix. A night without the MR was not a big deal from where we stood. But some customers may not be as flexible.

Cost: $214.15

Days out of Service: 1

Mike Schmidt, Vehicle Testing Manager @ 15,200 miles

May 7, 2009

2008 Pontiac G8 GT: The Words Between The Numbers

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If nothing else, Pontiac's departure from this earthly coil reminds us of the variety available to the car-buying public.

By nearly any measure on paper, our long-term 2008 Pontiac G8 and 2008 Mitsubishi Evo MR are doppelgangers. Acceleration is dead heat between the two, both are four-doors, have six-speed transmissions, heck, even the detailing down to the grille trim is similar. Furthermore, both haven proven robust.

We always put words between the numbers, though, and those words (hopefully) have spoken of a vast difference in driving character between these rides. Our comparison test of the Evo MR vs the G8 GXP last year demonstrated just how different two high-performance sedans at the same price point can be.

That test was with the GXP, though, and our long-term G8 is a GT. Still, aside from the GXP's faster numbers, they're very obviously cut from the same cloth. They're fraternal twins--one simply ended up more athletic than the other.

By contrast, the Evo is an entirely different animal from the Lancer upon which it is based. It's a Lancer in the way that the Six Million Dollar Man is a human male.

There's one thing that really separates the G8 GT and the Evo MR, and that's the fact that the MSRP of the GT undercuts the MR by ten grand. That's such a big difference that it might make you reevaluate how much you're willing to spend for the Evo's sharper character.

For me, the transmission clinches it. The Evo's all wheel-drive traction and twin-clutch gearbox puts it in another galaxy compared to the G8 GT's autobox. Sure, the GT has a shift-it-yourself mode, but it's sluggish, lacks paddles and the console shifter is logic-reversed.

What say you, fine IL LT blog reader--among the G8 GT, G8 GXP and Evo MR, which ride hits your sweet spot and why?

Jason Kavanagh, Engineering Editor @ 20,771 miles.

 

May 6, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR: Are Shift Paddles for Wimps?

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It's hard to know whether a dual-clutch automated manual transmission is a high-performance gearbox or just a more fuel-efficient automatic. And even after the introduction in the last year of dual-clutch transmissions from BMW, Mitsubishi and Porsche, there's still no resolution of the question.

When BMW introduced its SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox), single-clutch automated transmission for the M3 and M5, I found myself one of the few who thought of it as an aid to quicker lap times. Everyone else whined endlessly about shift shock, which tells you that their frame of reference was the automatic transmission.

Continue reading...

May 4, 2009

2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR: 15,000 miles

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Our 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR hit the 15,000-mile mark this weekend. Thankfully it didn't do it in a supermarket parking lot, or on some other lame errand. No, this photo was taken along the side of a twisty, nearly deserted canyon road in the Santa Monica mountains. God I love California.

We've had the car 9 months now, done two services (one at 5,120 another at 10,555, the 15,000-mile service should be done this week), paid $1,631.56 for four new Yokohama Advan A13C tires-- done in two stages-- and had the dealer fix a broken hood latch. Life with the Evo is good. But there might be a problem. 

Having the car for almost exactly 9 months with 15,000 on the clock means we're putting about 1,667 (I rounded up) miles on the car per month. Do the math and this means at the 12-month mark we'll be at 20,001. While that is over our intended mileage, it's too close for my taste. Time for someone to take this thing on a road trip. C'mon, it's got nav.

Mike Magrath, Vehicle Testing Assistant @ 15,073 miles  

May 1, 2009

Big List of Fuel Economy - April Edition

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Here are the fuel economy figures for April 2009. As usual, we've listed the best and worst tanks and the average over the entire life of the vehicle.

We're missing a couple of cars that were out of town or unavailable at the time we took the readings.

Car
Best
Worst
Average
2009 Audi A4 Avant
26.8
17.5
22.3
2008 BMW 135i
27.7
9.5
19.8
2009 BMW 750i
21.8
14.6
19.1
2002 BMW M3
23.5
12.3
17.5
2009 BMW M3
16.8
9.6
14.8
2008 Cadillac CTS
32.5
9.9
19.2
2009 Dodge Challenger R/T
18.1
10.3
16.3
2009 Ford Flex Limited
26.7
13.7
19.6
2008 Ford Focus SES
40.6
16.6
26.7
2007 Honda Civic GX
47.3
12.7
31.7
2009 Honda Fit Sport
39.0
26.0
32.0
2009 Hyundai Genesis
24.8
15.5
20.7
2009 Infiniti FX50
21.8
10.7
17.1
2009 Mazda 6
29.1
19.5
23.5
2008 Mitsubishi Evo X GSR
22.6
11.0
17.2
2008 Mitsubishi Evo X MR
21.3
11.7
16.8
2009 Nissan GT-R
21.8
11.5
16.5
2008 Pontiac G8 GT
19.4
14.1
17.3
2008 Smart Fortwo Passion
43.4
23.5
33.7
2009 Suzuki SX4
25.0
18.6
22.5
2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI
43.0
28.7
35.3
2005 Volkswagen Jetta on Biodiesel
49.1
26.2
38.8

After the jump you can see the list sorted by best average MPG.

Donna DeRosa, Managing Editor

Continue reading...

April 30, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Evo X MR: They Got The Shifter Right

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This is how it should be. The shifter in our 2008 Mitsubishi Evo MR gets it right. Notice you push it to downshift and pull it to upshift. Most cars get it backassward, in fact, only BMW, Mazda and Mitsu do it this way. The right way.

Why is this the right way? Because when you're accelerating and need to upshift, your weight and momentum are toward the rear. And when you're braking and need to downshift, the reverse is true.

Trust me, this is how it should be. Don't let anybody else tell you different.

That said, I always use the Evo's large, well-placed paddle shifters instead, so the configuration of Evo's shifter doesn't much matter.  

Scott Oldham, Inside Line Editor in Chief @ 14,798 miles

April 27, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Evolution X MR: Tires Replaced

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On Friday we suffered a puncture in the Evo MR's Yokohama Advan. We took it as a sign that it was time to change the other two worn tires. So we ordered a pair from Stokes in Santa Monica and requested a patch on the injured tire to get us through the weekend.

It was a good thing the tires arrived on schedule today. The patch wasn't sealing properly and continued leaking air through the weekend at a rate of about 0.5 psi per hour. Total cost for two tires after mounting and balancing, $819.31.

Mike Schmidt, Vehicle Testing Manager @ 14,486 miles

April 14, 2009

Where's the Clipboard Damn It, I Need a Car!

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What's it like working at Inside Line?

I get this question almost daily from somebody, and my answer usually blows their mind. I say, "Well, everyday this guy Mike walks up to me with a clipboard that contains a list of 15 to 30 cars ranging from a Smart to a GT-R and he says, 'Scott, what do you want to drive home tonight.'"

It's true.   

Continue reading...

April 13, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Evolution MR / GSR: Warning Light A Mystery No More

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Every time I drive our long-term 2008 Evo MR or 2008 Evo GSR, a warning light flashes up on the instrument panel at least once. There's a ding and then a light flashes up and then promptly disappears a half-second after I glance down.

The light comes and goes so quickly that I never have a chance to really get a solid look at it, never mind snap its photo. I can say that the circumstances that precede the warning inevitably involve some combination of a fast turn and hard acceleration. 

This morning, my cat-like reflexes paid off and I got a good hard look at the warning light and later consulted the owner's manual (cheated photo from manual above).

So "CHECK" what? Well, you'll notice the symbol resembles a drum brake. On a car with four wheel disc brakes, but whatever. According the manual, there's either a fault in the brake system or the fluid is low. Also, a "brake" light apparently comes on elsewhere in the cluster.

Basically, hard driving sloshes the brake fluid in the reservoir away from the fluid level sensor. The sensor interprets this as low fluid and sends up the warning. Once the fluid settles back in place a second or so later, the now-happy sensor retracts the warning.

Our Evos' brake pads are somewhat worn, so the fluid level is a bit lower than normal (but still above the minimum) in both cars, which exacerbates the situation. And in the case of the GSR, which accelerates like a scalded hummingbird, the fluid is subjected to even more g-load-induced sloshing than it would experience otherwise.

Low-ish fluid + overly sensitive sensor = elusive warning for a nonexistent problem. Mystery solved.

Jason Kavanagh, Engineering Editor

 

April 7, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X: The Blind Spot

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I love the Evo X, I really do. I love its fast steering, its communication skills, its power and its utility. But I don't love its blind spot. It's is a problem which affects us short-torsoed types. And it's infuriating.

Above is as close an approximation of what I see from the driver's seat as I can create with my camera at eye level. Notice the waistline (bottom of the side window) is at about shoulder level. It's below my eyes, but not as much as it should be for adequate front-quarter visibility.

Example after the jump...

Continue reading...

April 1, 2009

Big List of Fuel Economy - March Edition

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Here are updated fuel economy figures for the month of March. We've listed the best, worst and average fuel economy numbers over the life of the vehicle. Keep in mind that some of these tanks may be based on a partial fill-up.

This is missing a few that were not available at the time I was compiling this list.

Car
Best
Worst
Average
2009 Audi A4 Avant
26.0
17.5
21.6
2002 BMW M3
23.5
12.3
17.6
2009 Dodge Challenger R/T
20.4
12.9
17.3
2008 Ford Focus
40.6
17.1
26.4
2007 Honda Civic GX
47.3
21.4
31.6
2009 Honda Fit Sport
39.0
28.0
32.1
2009 Hyundai Genesis
24.8
15.5
21.1
2009 Infiniti FX50
20.9
10.8
17.4
2009 Mazda 6
29.1
19.5
23.3
2008 Mitsubishi Evo X GSR
22.6
11.0
17.1
2008 Mitsubishi Evo X MR
24.7
15.0
16.8
2009 Nissan 370Z Touring
21.6
14.0
18.4
2008 Smart Fortwo
43.4
25.7
33.8
2009 Suzuki SX4
25.0
18.6
22.1
2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI
43.0
28.7
35.6
2005 Volkswagen Jetta on Biodiesel
43.9
35.5
39.3

After the jump you can see the list sorted by average MPG.

Donna DeRosa, Managing Editor

Continue reading...

March 30, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR is a Rascal

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Unlike some of my younger, less experienced colleagues who think that the skinny red line at the top of the rev-counter is the indicator for an upshift, I am of the mindset that fuel is to be conserved. Why, I remember when the Ethel only two-bits a gallon and we'd drive all the way to the lake and back and still have enough left in the tank to go to the drug store and visit the soda jerk who would reach deep into the Kelvinator to make us an ice cream soda and then give us a handful of Squirrel Nut Zippers because it was a Sunday. Boy, howdy. Those were the days.

Continue reading...

March 23, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR: Stereo by Microsoft

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Where're the CNTRL, ALT and Delete keys on this car? I only ask because the Rockford Fosgate stereo keeps locking up. This crazy screen pops up, none of the buttons (which I hate; they're too small) work, there's no sound from the radio or the phone and there's no way get out of it. Only the tried-and-true Microsoft fix-it-all, turn the damn thing on-and-off until it fixes itself, works. And I mean the whole thing, the car, the radio's power button stops working so you've got to pull over, turn the car off, open and close the door and then restart the vehicle. Fun.   

I've yet to find any TSB relating to this issue but I'll be sure to look into it more when we get closer to the car's 15,000-mile service.

Mike Magrath, Vehicle Testing Assistant @ 12,961 miles 

March 13, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X MR: Overdue for tires

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We beat on the tires of our 2008 Mitsubishi Evo MR for long enough. Two of the Yokohamas have life remaining, so they're still on the Evo. This pair was obviously due for replacement. And the screw in the right tire above sealed the deal.

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We ordered the Advan A13Cs from Stokes Tire Pros in Santa Monica this morning. Our tires arrived with their afternoon shipment. An $812.25 signature covered all costs, and the MR is now safely back on the road.

Mike Schmidt, Vehicle Testing Manager @ 12,390 miles

March 4, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X MR: Can't Hold Its Cookies

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The past few years I've picked up my daugther's entire Girl Scout troop's cookie order from the local cookie warehouse. Ninety-eight cases? No, problem said our 2006 Kia Sedona back in 2007. And last year I picked up 147 cases in our 2008 Hyundai Veracruz (with some help from a Toyota Camry).

This year's cookie pick-up snuck up on me, and come Friday I was ill-prepared for Saturday's warehouse appointment. Looking at my weekend options, I realized the 2008 Mitsubishi Evo X MR was the largest vehicle available. Without even a fold-down rear seat, the Mitsu wasn't going to do me much good.

So the sporty Evo sat idly by as 62 cases of cookies were loaded into a borrowed minivan.

At least I had fun on the drive home.

Kelly Toepke, News Editor @ 11,881 miles

March 2, 2009

Big List of Fuel Economy

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Here is a list of most of our long-term vehicles with their best, worst and average fuel economy numbers over the life of the vehicle.

This list is missing a few that were not available at the time I was compiling this list.

Car
Best
Worst
Average
2008 Audi R8
20.3
11.7
15.3
2009 Audi A4 Avant
26.0
17.5
19.9
2008 BMW 135i
27.7
13.9
20.5
2002 BMW M3
23.5
12.3
17.5
2008 Dodge Grand Caravan
30.8
12.0
18.6
2009 Ford Flex
26.7
13.7
19.8
2008 Ford Focus
37.4
16.6
26.4
2007 Honda Civic GX
47.3
16.6
31.4
2009 Honda Fit Sport
37.1
28.0
32.1
2009 Hyundai Genesis
24.8
15.7
20.9
2009 Infiniti FX50
21.8
10.7
17.4
2009 Mazda 6
29.1
19.5
23.6
2008 Mitsubishi Evo X GSR
22.6
11.0
17.0
2008 Mitsubishi Evo X MR
24.7
11.7
16.8
2009 Nissan GT-R
21.8
11.5
16.6
2008 Pontiac G8 GT
24.0
12.0
17.4
2008 Smart Fortwo
43.2
29.7
33.7
2008 Subaru WRX STI
24.4
12.3
18.9
2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI
40.4
30.0
35.7
2005 Volkswagen Jetta Biodiesel
50.4
30.3
39.3

Follow the jump to see the list organized by average so you can see how they stack up against each other.

Donna DeRosa, Managing Editor

Continue reading...

February 25, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X MR: Another I-Can't-See Post

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It's no secret how much I luuuuve our 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X MR but honestly that just makes it harder for me to figure out what to blog about when I have it. Ummm, oh! There was no one in front of me on the Walgrove curves today! Wee!

All right all right, well, I was able to take off the rose-colored glasses long enough to realize that visibility in this car, at least for me (I'm 5' 6"), isn't all that great, again, for me. I would never change lanes unless I was absolutely sure that no one was there. Rearview mirror, side mirror, blind spot check and switch. But in this car, I always get nervous when switching over to the right and end up triple-checking that blind spot and holding my breath. 

Dan Edmunds had mentioned before that his wife felt uncomfortable when turning left: "Seeing the line into left hand corners and making left turns at intersections...was impossibly tough for her because a panoramic blind spot sweeps across the humungous, forward-leaning mirror housing, through the window-mounted mirror base and past the A-pillar."

And the view of the rear spoiler doesn't bother me that much but I totally can relate to what Albert Austria said about 5-0 checks.

For me it's the B-pillar (not the passenger seat which can obviously be moved out of the way, although this one was moved up a bit) and the high window line. This probably wouldn't be much of an issue if the driver seat was height adjustable. In any case, there. I said it.

Caroline Pardilla, Deputy Managing Editor @ 11,711 miles

February 23, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR: Impractical fun

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With most of the practical iron already spoken for, I signed out the Evo MR for a weekend of chasing the last stage of the Tour of California bicycle race. Wasn't sure how I'd arrange my spouse, bicycle and assorted luggage down to San Diego, but as one who's never felt you needed a half-ton pickup to transport an 18-pound bicycle, I figured I'd sort it somehow.

Continue reading...

February 18, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X MR: Yugo-Spec Turn Stalk

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Well, that's not entirely fair. I've never driven a Yugo. But I'm probably safe in assuming that they weren't known for their substantial-feeling turn stalks. Our long-term Mitsubishi Evo X MR follows in the Yugo's presumable footsteps with the cut-rate abomination pictured above. It feels like a pencil in a pencil sharpener -- it's flimsy, it rattles around imprecisely, and it's easy to snap it in two if you're not careful.

To be clear, that last gibe remains speculative as of this writing; i.e., I haven't actually broken the thing. But it sure does feel like it's going to come off in my hand every time I activate the turn signal. The "I <3 Evo" crowd will grumble about nitpicking, but seriously, I can't think of a cheaper-feeling turn stalk in any other car on the market, and I've sampled a lot of 'em. Unlike those soft-touch dash inserts that automotive scribes like to prattle on about (myself included), the turn stalk is something you actually touch on a regular basis. I'm surprised Mitsubishi didn't spend another, say, three bucks per car to get it right, from the base Lancer on up to the Evo. 

Josh Sadlier, Associate Editor, Edmunds.com @ 11,228 miles

February 17, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X MR: On a wing and...

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Apparently, many in the shop here don't care for the Evo MR's rear wing. I can understand. From a practical standpoint, it makes backing-up difficult. And it's hard to see if that vehicle tailing you is a Crown Vic, especially at night. Some may think it's ugly, while other don't like the image.

Now I'm no Rocket Boy: I once went to Hot Import Nights and didn't check out any of the vehicles.
 I, instead, was busy gathering information from the product spokespersons.

So it seems a bit strange that I like the rear wing. But I do.
It sets the Evo X MR apart from the more pedestrian Lancers out there.

Besides, how are the other members of Evo Nation supposed to spot you?

Albert Austria, Sr Vehicle Evaluation Engineer @ 11,221 miles
 (photo by S.Jacobs)

February 9, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR: Haulin' Baby

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New-parent paranoia combined with a complete lack of space consciousness resulted in the Jacquot family owning the world's largest convertible baby seat (pictured here). As a result, my litmus test of any sedan's value has now been dramatically redefined to include this criteria: Will it fit without forcing the wife to eat the airbag?

Continue reading...

February 6, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X MR: Are There Better Seats For $40K?

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Are these the best seats in a car under $40,000? Yes. Don't argue with me either. I know, I just sat in them last night.

They have bolstering that feels substantial enough to hold you in upside down and the upholstery is grippy in all the right places. And just look at them, they look cool too. They almost make up for that silly wing on the back.

Ed Hellwig, Senior Editor, Inside Line @ 10,584 miles

February 4, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X: Getting My Jollies During the Morning Commute

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There's nothing I dislike more than the morning commute to work...oh, except the commute home after work. And yes, I live just 7 miles from the office but during rush-hour traffic it feels like 50.

In any case, our 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X seems to make that stress go away as I'm able to get my jollies where I can find them on the way to work. There's that wonderful high off-the-ground freeway on-ramp with a 30-mph curve. Fellow motorists usually slow wayyy down for fear of losing control and flying off the ramp. Eesh. In the Evo, I just maneuver around them, the car's sticky tires hold me in place.

And then there's the long sweeping two-lane on-ramp to the 90 freeway. Usually people take the outside lane but I can just fly by them in the inside lane. Man, I love this car!

And in the picture above on a side street there's a pair of curves (first a right then a left) that I like to dance through. Sure, it's a rare occasion to have no one in front of me but when there isn't, I can take it at uh...a funner speed and imagine that I'm on a racetrack.

Unfortunately, this morning an irritatingly slow Mustang was taking those curves at 30 mph and even braking! The nerve! I wondered if he was braking because he was intimidated by the sight of the Evo in his rearview mirror. I even tried to back off to wait til he cleared the curves so that I could go at a fun pace unabated but then he just hit his brakes again. Ah well, next time.

Caroline Pardilla, Deputy Managing Editor

February 2, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Evo MR vs 2008 Subaru STI Comparison Test

Subaru STI and Mitsubishi Evo -- Photo by Mark Takahashi

Over on the Edmunds Daily blog, we pitted our long-term Mitsubishi Evo MR against its arch nemesis, the long-term Subaru STI. Unlike the past Evo-STI comparo on Inside Line, this one focuses more on every-day use with these vehicles. Will the outcome be any different?

Read the full Evo MR versus STI comparison test on Edmunds Daily

James Riswick, Automotive Editor

January 28, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Evo MR: The Gomer Rundown

2008 Mitsubishi Evolution MR

This was the first time since the Evo's very first blog entry that I've driven our MR long-termer. Please excuse me whilst I revert into a gomer...

Holy crap is this car good. The transmission is brilliant -- immediate shifts in manual, perfectly designed paddles and the automatic mode was greatly appreciated in today's enormous West L.A. traffic carmaggedon. Had it been a manual (say the STI's), I would have hacked off my clutch leg. The engine is completely incapable of accelerating slowly. You're either stopped or making your passengers exclaim something along the lines of "Holy Godalahbuddhakrishnayoda!" The brakes'll suck your eyeballs out. The steering is crazy quick, heavy and transmits more information than an NSA wiretap. The seats were snug for my 5-foot-zip girlfriend, prompting her to comment, "Thank god I'm not fat." It looks bad-ass, dude, way bad-ass. I even got the primo out-front spot at Spanish Kitchen last night. Not that I'd ever care about such things, but it's a freakin' Mitsubishi! Holy crap is this car good.

There, I got it out of my system. I may now remind myself that it costs $41,765 with an insurance premium somewhere south of the Carnival Crown Princess.

James Riswick, Automotive Editor @ 10,401 miles

January 26, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR: Fuel Mileage Update

mitsubishi-evo-mr-fuel.jpgWe recently passed 10,000 miles in our Evo MR.

As I was driving home Friday night, I watched the gas gauge moving lower and lower. This car drinks gasoline quicker than my Uncle Cupie goes through Grappa.

Fill-ups come often as the tank capacity is a smallish 14.5 gal.

EPA estimates for the Evo MR are 17 city/22 hwy/19 combined.

We're averaging 16.8 mpg. Our worst tank so far was 11.7 mpg, our best tank was 24.7 mpg.

Any Evo drivers out there? What mileage are you getting?

Donna DeRosa, Managing Editor @ 10,308 miles

January 22, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR: Blinded by the Light

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Is it just me, or is getting zapped with bright lights while driving at night especially annoying?  I'd like to give a special thanks to those who don't dim their brights when another car approaches (even after you blip them with your brights to let 'em know).

And as if that's not bad enough, the Evo MR's nav system seemed bent on searing my retinas as well.  That's not a bad photo above -- that's exactly how it looked at night unless the street was illuminated like Fenway park during a night game.

Continue reading...

January 15, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR: Cruise Nazi

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I like the quicker shifts, sharper throttle response and increased engine braking of our long-term 2008 Mitsubishi Evo MR's "Sport" transmission mode. Sometimes I switch the cruise control on, too.

But Mitsubishi decided that setting the cruise in Sport mode is an unthinkable proposition--when in Sport mode, the cruise control's "set" button goes all limp and ineffectual. You must demote the transmission to "Normal" for the cruise to function.

I can see some logic in this when the transmission is in the full-auto "Drive" gate. Sport mode holds gears like a champ. At freeway speeds, it won't upshift past fourth gear. Engaging the cruise like this would decimate fuel economy.

So what if you pop the selector into the fully manual gate and row your own? Is this the secret sauce that allows Sport and cruise to get along with each other? Nope.

No cruise for you!

Jason Kavanagh, Engineering Editor @ 9,855 miles.

January 12, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR: Time For Tires

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So this is what the rear tires on our EVO MR look like after about 9,800 miles. They've been rotated from the front and the fronts do have a bit more tread depth. My experience with previous Evos has yielded similar mileage on the stock tires. If you want this kind of grip, there's going to be a compromise.

Josh Jacquot, Senior road test editor @ 9,770 miles 

 

January 8, 2009

2008 Subaru WRX STI: Apparently, a Better Daily Driver Than the Evo MR

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Recently, I got back into our 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI for a night. It felt like forever since I'd driven it. Somehow how this car always gets picked before both of our Lancer Evolutions. I can understand not wanting to commute in the GSR, but the MR? That's supposed to be the GT of Evos, and it basically has an automatic transmission.

Whether it's our STI's more compliant suspension, its roomy hatch area (unobstructed by subwoofers), its less confining front seats or its better fuel range, this car is a favorite among the parents on staff, particularly now that we have fewer SUVs in the fleet. I found a booster seat installed in the backseat.

I hopped on the freeway, and the ride quality does feel more relaxed than even our 2008 Mitsubishi Evolution MR. The STI feels a little less reactive to steering inputs, too. This can make it less exciting to drive, but it also makes it easier to settle back and cruise to your destination -- a terrible thing to suggest, but everybody gets tired now and then.

Still, there's a solidity that comes with the MR's porkiness (3,658 pounds) that I sort of miss in the Subaru, which weighs 300 lbs less. But I don't want to be an advocate for ballooning curb weights, so forget I said that.

I'm also not sure the STI is any quieter than the MR. There's still plenty of road noise, an assortment of driveline sounds and at least one rattle coming from the open hatch area.

For my personal use, I don't think the STI has an advantage over the MR as a daily driver. But I can certainly understand why others would prefer the Subie.

Erin Riches, Senior Editor @ 17,409 miles

January 5, 2009

2008 Mitsubishi Evolution X MR: Too Slow to Impress the Family?

evomrlooksexcitingeveninagarage.jpgWe'd just finished dinner on Friday night, and my boyfriend turned to me and said, "Let's go for a drive in the MR."

Two of his relatives climbed in the back of our 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR. I wanted to impress them, but we were all much too full to go through any tight corners. What a shame. I love the way this car changes direction.

So we found an empty stretch of road and I engaged the launch control -- much easier than it is in most cars with dual-clutch gearboxes. Maybe we've already described it here on the blog, but memory fails me. So, you shut off the stability control, slide the shifter into manual mode, hold the switch behind the shifter until the "Super Sport" shift mode shows on the IP, hold the brake with your left foot and press the gas with your right. The engine revs to 5,200 rpm, and then all you do is release the brake pedal and keep the gas pedal pinned.

I also had to remind myself to yank the shift paddle for second gear, because not much time elapses before you're past the 7,000-rpm redline and into the rev limiter. To be fair, though, my reaction time could/should probably be quicker.

I did this twice and nobody said anything. And after spending time with our modified Evo GSR, not even I was impressed. The MR feels very quick moving through freeway traffic, but in isolation, it feels almost slow. Guess that's the difference between a car that runs a 14.0-second quarter-mile and one that runs a 12.8.

We went home.

Garage shot with Evo VIII, replete with JDM badging and roof rack, is gratuitous. I don't know the owner. But I do know we both like milk tea.

Erin Riches, Senior Editor @ 9,345 miles 

December 29, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR: Go West, Young Man

I took our Evo MR up to the SF Bay Area for the holidays. I actually enjoyed the harsh racer style ride and I really liked the passing power it afforded me on the long Interstate drive up north. It made the long boring drive entertaining.

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For many years, the day after Christmas I drive up to San Francisco for dim sum with some friends. However, this time it was made difficult by the very things I loved about the MR.

The harsh ride was a bit much for my friends riding in back, the neck snapping acceleration annoyingly snapped my friends neck in the front seat and the road noise made it very difficult for anyone to hear what people were saying.

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This car is meant for one person, not a posse.

When I drove the car back to LA on the Interstate, their comments still ringing in my head faded into the noise of the turbo whoosh as I passed a long string of holiday drivers.

Scott Jacobs, Senior Photographer @ 9,002 miles

December 19, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo MR: Just Brilliant

mitsuevo 003.cp.jpgHere is the fun spot. From this position you can do just about anything, the Evo goes right where you point it. A quick tap of the throttle means you get there now! .

Isn't this Evo better than cars costing much more? I think it is - can anyone think of a car that's SIGNIFICANTLY less expensive but a better performer?

Now, I've got to go drive this thing more. Full tank - check, Sport mode engaged - check, Sirius Alt Nation switched on - check, loud mouth in fart-can Civic Si spanked at the stoplight - double check. This is turning out to be a fun week. 

Brian Moody, Senior Automotive Editor

December 15, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X: MR V. GSR on the track

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As with all of our long term cars, both of our long term 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Xs, an MR and a modded GSR, were track tested. Follow the jump for the full results of both tests.

Continue reading...

December 8, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR: Track-ready Trunk

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Confirmed: everything you need to support a half-baked racecar will fit in the 2008 Evo MR's trunk with room to spare.

Initially, I was concerned that I made a poor vehicle choice for the weekend knowing that it would serve as a support vehicle for my LeMons car shakeout session at the track. The Evo's trunk is puny, especially with the MR's boom-boom subwoofer in there.

Turns out it's the right kind of small. Any larger and all that stuff would have been sliding and banging around on the fun roads--Angeles Crest and Angeles Forest--up to Willow Springs. Instead, some creative packing (I rejiggered a few items after this pic was snapped) made everything stay put even when subjected to some, uh, elevated lateral acceleration events.

Jason Kavanagh, Engineering Editor @ 7,397 miles.

November 28, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Evo X MR: Blink, Blink

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A lot of drivers in Southern California don't use their turn signals, more so than in any other place I've lived. People jump lanes all the time without signalling. But they are only hurting themselves by increasing their chances of getting rear-ended.

Perhaps even more vexing is when people forget to turn off their signals. You're driving down the freeway and you see a blinker and you slow down a little to let the person in front of you (because you are trying to be a nice person and not have road rage). But they never move over and then you realize that they don't notice their signal is still on.

Well, the Evo MR turned me into one of those people. Unless you're making a 90-degree turn, the signals don't automatically shut off. There are several places on my daily commute where I make a long sweeping turn from a left-turn lane. It's not sharp enough to cause the signal to switch back off.

Inside the cabin, the signals are very quiet and the blinking arrow is tucked into a corner of the dash. It's easy to not notice that it is still blinking and driving other commuters crazy.

So tell me, do you use turn signals? And if not, why not?

Donna DeRosa, Managing Editor @ 6,905 miles

November 24, 2008

Evo vs. STI vs GT-R: The Great Gauges Shootout

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STI-IP.jpg

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A few weeks ago I used this blog to dump on the instrument panel of the new Mitsubishi Evo. I called the car's dials lame during an obvious spell of extreme creativity and made the point that the Evo's lack of a real temp gauge or oil pressure gauge was a joke.

Now me and my nearly senseless point are back and I'm going to use the gauges of our long-term 2008 Subaru STI and long-term 2009 Nissan GT-R the further illustrate the impotence of the Evo's IP. Sure, neither pack a well placed oil pressure gauge (the GT-R's can be called up on its nav screen) as they should, but notice how the Subie and the Nissan prioritize the tachometer, placing it dead center ahead of the driver, while the Evo's cluster does not. Please also take note that the STI and the GT-R have permanent water temperature gauges as any high performance car should.

Which of the three sets of gauges do you like best? A, B, or C? I vote C. The GT-R's cluster offers the most info and the most style of the three. 

Scott Oldham, Inside Line Editor in Chief

2008 Mitsu Lancer Evo X MR: False Alarm x 2

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On Saturday morning, I went to move the MR up our driveway and spotted this broken bumper cap and dangling license plate light. The texting began immediately:

"Yo. Did anybody report getting rear-ended in the MR? It looks like a took quite a thump."

"Yep, accident report all filled out..." replied Magrath.

Phew! I thought, because I can't imagine this happened between the office and my driveway without my feeling the hit. I supposed it might've happened while parked, but c'mon.

That would've been nice to know before I took the car for the weekend. Things slip through the cracks. No big whoop.

Also noticed the car is due for service -- you can hardly ignore it with the dash board lighting up with GIANT yellow reminder every time it's started up.

Finally, the same central display went completely mental this morning on my way in. Apparently, the car was low on fuel and the flashing yellow warning thought I was heading into the Australian outback or something. The trip meter had just displayed 200 miles, but just in case, I began drafting panel vans and pretending there was a proverbial egg on the throttle pedal. Again, no biggie, just put in 13.2 gallons at the Shell on Cloverfield. I still had 1.3 gallons (or about 28 miles) left. Sheesh! What an alarmist.

Sorry about the cell phone photo.

Chris Walton, Chief Road Test Editor @ 6777 miles

November 20, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X MR: Stay Where You Are

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Yes, yes, our 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X MR's Recaros are awesome for holding you in place during hard cornering. But such a bitch to get out of the car, especially when you have no core muscles and you're wearing a dress. I take that to mean I should never get out of this car.

Caroline Pardilla, Deputy Managing Editor @ 6,654 miles

November 17, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X MR: Not a Favorite?

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On Friday I was presented with a choice of either the Smart Fortwo or our 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X MR. Wuuut? All the other editors passed on the Evo? What gives? I asked one of our editors Warren Clarke why he passed on it for the Ford Focus (his pick for the weekend). "Because the Evo isn't an easy car to drive," was his reply. "And it's loud," he added.

His loss! I LOVE this car. I feel so confident driving it. I know with its turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine I have enough power to jump on the freeway without getting in the way of merging traffic and awesome brakes to exit safely from freeway speeds. Oh, and with those sticky tires, I can take curves and corners at high speed with nary a wheel screech or fear of losing control.

Plus it's not loud. Well, not as loud as the GSR. In fact, its deep exhaust note is music to my ears. In all honesty, I like to blip the throttle just so I can hear it.

Hmm, on second thought, maybe I should have just let the other editors think it's a horrible car so that I can get more seat time in it. D'oh!

Caroline Pardilla, Deputy Managing Editor @ 6,562 miles

November 14, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR: Fantastic but...

08.mitsubishi.evox.mr.crg.500.jpg

...I'd rather own the STi.

You see, there's this place I like to visit from time-to-time called the real world. I know, I know, here in SoCal where there are the same number of plastic surgery doctors as there are canyon roads, "real world" is a bit of a stretch. But bear with me, I swear there's a point somewhere here.

In the real world there are things like potholes and speedbumps and there are times when, believe it or not, I don't want to be in a racecar. The EVO X MR is quick and agile and the accelerator pedal may as well be connected directly to my adrenal gland, milking out every drop of that precious hormone any time my foot goes down. It's that driver interaction that has built the Evo a cult following, and it's that level of work required that would keep me out of the Evo as my daily driver. The Subi is vastly more livable and only a hair less capable. Oh, and the Subi can also fit my snowboard, bike or even suitcase in the hatch. I like hatches.

That said, if the decision was for a second car, it would be the Evolution and the magic SST dual-clutch all the way. Am I right here, or have I just gotten old and soft?

Mike Magrath, Vehicle Testing Assistant @ 6,035 miles

November 7, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Evo MR and GSR: Lame Gauges

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I have a gripe about our long-term 2008 Mitsubishi Evo. Both of them. Our black Evo MR and our blue Evo GSR both have lame gauges. No, make that incomplete instrumentation.

You guys have been basting us for having two Evos and it's hard to argue that point when you realize there isn't a oil pressure gauge or a decent water temperature gauge between them. The digital temp gauge in these Mitsus is a joke.

BMW started this stupid minimal gauge trend a few years ago, and now our turbocharged Evos have landed on the same design bandwagon. No thanks.

Incredibly Cadillac has gone in the other direction. And I applaud the company for it. Our long-term Cadillac CTS has more complete instrumentation than almost any car around, including our long-term Evos. Hell, the Caddy even has a real oil pressure gauge with a needle that actually moves.

Imagine how many calls Caddy dealers have gotten from CTS owners thinking they need a new engine because their oil gauge reads nearly zero every time they stop the car. Caddy knew that would happen and they included the dial anyway. Mitsubishi should too.

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Scott Oldham, Inside Line Editor in Chief

November 5, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR: Fun

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So when the Audi R8 and the Nissan GT-R have been snatched up for the night, what's the next funnest car on the list?

My current choice is the turbocharged Evo MR. It's speedy, sounds yummy and corners like a dream. The heavily bolstered seats fit perfectly and everything is well within reach of my short arms. The wing looks a little silly but I don't care. This car is sweeeeet.

Although, I haven't driven our GSR yet, so I reserve the right to change my mind.

Donna DeRosa, Managing Editor

November 3, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X MR: Mismatched Turning Radius

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Our 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X MR is one of my current favorites in our fleet...OK, it's actually my number one fave. I like it over the Audi R8 and Nissan GT-R because it's accessible, fun and easy to drive, and not intimidating. In fact, I feel like I have room to improve with this car, like although it's fun to drive now, it'll be even more fun when I improve my driving skills. The supercars, on the other hand, feel like you really should already know what you're doing when you jump in their driver seat, especially because a screw up in there could be costly.

The only shortcoming I found in our Evo X MR is that it has a really large turning radius. At 38.7 feet, it's the largest among the Mazdaspeed 3 (36.1), VW R32 (35.7) and the Subie Impreza WRX (34.8). And therefore it really makes me nervous when I have to make a U-turn in an intersection, even when the intersection has an island. Usually if there are cars waiting on my left, I just make a left turn and find a nonbusy spot to turn around on. On the average street, my U-turns in the Evo inevitably wind up three-point turns.

Caroline Pardilla, Deputy Managing Editor @ 5,570 miles

October 29, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR: Blind, Deaf, but not Dumb.

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In art school I was told that when your work is being critiqued, and it seems like the critic is ripping on what seems to be very minor details, that it's probably a good sign. That means the major stuff is just fine, it's just that the critic is required to find a fault, no matter how small. Such is the case with our Evo MR. I dig this car. I didn't mean to, it just happened. Yes, all of the gushing from my colleagues can be found elsewhere in this blog, so I won't go into how much I love the drivetrain, power, etc...

Continue reading...

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X MR: Happy Halloween!

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One aspect I really like about our 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X is how the taillights look mean. As if they're saying, "Back off" or really, in the Evo's case, "Don't even think about it." Anyway with Halloween in mind, the rear also reminds me of this...

Continue reading...

October 28, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Evolution X MR: Simplifies the Search for Delicious Tacos

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Yesterday, official business required me to visit several taco trucks in Highland Park, a neighborhood on the east side of Los Angeles, and our long-term 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR was my companion. In this one (and hopefully one-time) instance, I sought the car not for its performance abilities but for its user-friendly navigation system.

Graphically, the maps in this navigation system are nothing to write home about. But if you want to program an intersection as your destination, rather than a specific address, this system makes it very, very easy. And this is quite useful when searching for taco trucks, which park near intersections.

Continue reading...

October 27, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Evolution X MR: Hood Repair

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It opens. After 8 days at the dealer for a busted hood latch, the Evo MR is back in service.

Our dealer treated the situation as if it were routine - - a bad sign for Mitsu owners. Step one involved replacing the cracked release lever inside the cabin. Easy enough.

Then came the destruction. Cut a hole in the grille, reach inside and release the latch manually to pop the hood. We were told that during this stage "the bumper will probably get scratched so we'll send it to the body shop for paint work." And no surprise, they did just that.

In the end the release lever, cable, hood latch and grille were all replaced.

Mike Schmidt, Vehicle Testing Manager @ 5,020 miles

October 16, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Evolution X MR: Busted

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Last night we found a co-worker stranded in the parking garage with a dead battery. So we grabbed the cables, pulled nose to nose and tugged the hood release latch - - which busted off in our hand. A tug on the release cable itself did nothing. So much for being a good samaritan.

This morning we found ourselves at the local Mitsubishi dealer. They confirmed the bind-up was somewhere under the hood and they couldn't fix it without removing the bumper cover. Good thing it's under warranty.

Turns out the Evo is due for scheduled maintenance too. We'll let you know how it goes.

Mike Schmidt, Vehicle Testing Manager @ 5,000 miles

October 8, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X MR: A Big Wing and a Prayer

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Dear Lord,

Thank you very much for our long-term 2008 Mitsubishi Evo X MR. Thank for its state-of-the-art dual-clutch transmission, its turbocharged engine and its active differentials. Thank you for its remarkably smooth ride, huggy seats and perfectly shaped steering wheel. We are truely blessed to have it in our fleet. And for this gift I promise not to covet my neighbor's wife.

Oh, and by the way, lord. I don't want to seem ungrateful, but can we lose the Evo's wing next time? All it does is block my rear vision and make it look like I'm driving my son's car, that is my son with several piercings and absurdly baggy pants.

Amen.--Scott Oldham, Inside Line Editor in Chief

October 6, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo MR: Don't Forget to Turn It Off

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The above warning looks innocuous enough, but I ignored it this morning and almost left our Mitsubishi Evo with a dead battery. Since you don't have to actually pull the iginition key out of the ignition, it's easy to accidentally leave the car in the accessory position. I walked away without noticing, but when I realized my parking pass was still hanging from the rearview mirror I headed back and noticed that the doors were unlocked and the radio was still on. As much as I like keyless ignition systems, when stuff like this happens you wonder if it's worth the effort.

Ed Hellwig, Senior Editor, Inside Line @ 4531 miles

October 2, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR: Wooosh!

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This is the first time I've gotten to drive our Evo X. Wow, it's fast! Stupid fast. How do I know it was stupid fast?

Well, I was driving over to a friends house when the guy in front of me to my right had no lane discipline and changed lanes for no reason. Annoyed, I pulled to the right and punched the gas. Wooosh! and I was off in a big hurry.

When I got to my friends house, he asked how the car was.

"Deeeeeeeeeeeeeeh..... It's fast."

Scott Jacobs, Senior Photographer

October 1, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR: Mirror, Mirror

 

 

 

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Drove the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X MR home last night. It's a very desirable ride in many respects. But my wife didn't agree.

I'd tossed her the keys for a short ride to dinner. Within 20 yards, she proclaimed "I can't drive this thing. I can't see where I'm going!" And no, she wasn't talking about the rear wing. That'd be a problem related to seeing where you've been, and that's been covered already. 

She's quite a bit shorter than me, and the Evo's seats sit quite low, rally-style, with no height adjustment. Seeing the line into left hand corners and making left turns at intersections (where's the center divider curb?) was impossibly tough for her because a panoramic blind spot sweeps across the humungous, forward-leaning mirror housing, through the window-mounted mirror base and past the a-pillar. She needed me to spot for her a couple of times. 

Her eye line-of-sight is even lower than mine, so she doesn't even get the peek-a-boo glimpse below the mirror housing that you see in the above photo--a photo which hides most of an entire Cadillac. For her, the blockage is even more comprehensive.

And no, she didn't want to drive it home after dinner.

Aren't mirrors there to improve visibilty and reduce blind spots? Just asking.

 

Dan Edmunds, Director of Vehicle Testing @ 4,250 miles

September 24, 2008

The Big List of Fuel Economy

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I was thinking the other day (always a dangerous proposition, I know) and wondering how all the current (or really, really recently departed) Edmunds/Inside Line long-term vehicles stack up against each other in fuel economy, at least the fuel economy we've been recording during their time with us. So I made a list. For you and for me. In case we were both wondering.

The only current vehicles missing from my list are the Audi R8 and the Dodge Grand Caravan, and that's because no one has entered any fuel data into the tracking spreadsheet for those vehicles yet. The very top and the very bottom of the list aren't going to surprise anybody (I don't think), but the middle is kinda interesting. Seeing the Rondo and the WRX so close to each other made me raise my eyebrows. Ditto the Ford GT's spot above the Veracruz. Ready to check it all out? Follow the jump with me.

Continue reading...

September 22, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer EVO X MR: Twin Clutch (not so) Subtleties

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Here's an observation on twin-clutch transmissions that won't cross your mind until you drive an EVO MR. Because this transmission relies primarily on throttle position and (presumably) rate of change of the throttle to determine actions like clutch take-up, gear selection and shift-rate, it can be slow when it needs to be decisive. Here's an example which holds true to most auto-manual style transmissions.

Jab the throttle from a stop to get the EVO moving quickly from an intersection or leaving a parking lot and there's an awkward and uncomfortable delay before forward motion actually begins. Here's what's happening: in roughly a tenth of a second the throttle goes from an idle position to, say, 70 percent open -- an aggressive goose designed to get the EVO away from an intersection with limited visibility and two-way traffic.

The electronics controlling the engine and transmission see this and respond: "Oh crap, he really wants to move quickly." Exactly. "Moving quickly requires power. Power requires boost. Boost -- even with a twin-scroll turbo -- requires time." Uh oh.

Frustratingly, the exact opposite of what you want -- immediate, rapid forward motion -- happens. So dramatic is the effect, that a more subtle throttle opening might actually result in the car being further down the road more quickly since there would be less time spent waiting for power to build. 

Eventually, things do begin to happen: The engine builds revs and at some carefully calculated engine speed the transmission begins to feed in the clutch -- carefully, now, so as not to overheat anything. Then, and only then, does the car begin to move.

It requires an undesirable adjustment in driving style to reconcile this. Using a manual transmission, I'd have the engine speed dialed up to an appropriate level to get the car moving as I fed in the clutch. And I'd have far less hesitation in these situations.

The EVO's launch control, too, is lame -- precisely calibrated to never overheat a clutch or, heaven forbid, get moving quickly. For proof, check out the difference in 0-60 times between the EVO X MR and EVO X GSR in our comparison test vs. the STI.

Luckily, the SST is brilliant in Super Sport mode on a racetrack -- completely eliminating the need for a third pedal once up to speed. Too bad I don't live on a racetrack.

Josh Jacquot, Senior road test editor @ 3,880 miles

 

September 18, 2008

2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X MR: View of the rear

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The Evo MR has got some nice, racy Recaros. But these well-bolstered, yet comfy seats, are non-height adjustable and close to the deck. Combined with the rear headrests and the rear wing, the view out the back is at times sketchy. This is true especially at night, where it's difficult to determine what type of vehicle may be following you, say, for example, a Crown Vic. Or a Crown Vic with a light bar.

Albert Austria, Sr Vehicle Evaluation Engineer @ 3716 mi

Mitsu Evo MR Rear view.jpg

September 15, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR: Costs and Drinks Too Much

Evo Fuel Log.jpgAfter a weekend in the long-term Lancer Evolution X MR I've come to an important conclusion -- this car costs too much and drinks too much. It also makes too much noise (and not the cool, exhaust rumbly type).

If you look at the fuel log page above you'll see that, with rare exception, the Lancer Evolution can't get more than 200 miles out of a tank of fuel. In fact, in our 20 fill ups thus far, only two have been over 200 miles (211 and 212). That's because the tank only holds 14.5 gallons, and the car's lifetime fuel-mileage average after two months is 16.3 mpg. I'd like to say that a 291 horsepower car capable of zero-to-60 in 5.2 seconds is allowed to get just over 16 mpg...but I can't.

I know of too many cars with better performance and fuel mileage, and all of them can get well over 200 miles on a tank of fuel. Isn't this still a four-cylinder engine? The Lancer Evolution is rated at 17/22 mpg by the EPA, and with most new models even our lead foot long-term drivers land between the updated EPA figures, but not in this car.

Continue reading...

September 11, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X MR: Speedo

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Zero mph in the 6 o'clock position. Nice.

But with 180 mph at only 2 o'clock, it's difficult to see how fast you are going when you're trying to maintain a residential speed of only 35-40 mph. The legal speeds are all crammed into a quarter of the dial.

Donna DeRosa, Managing Editor @ 3,428 miles

September 3, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo MR: Artificial intelligence

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I rolled in the Evo MR last night for the first time. Unlike most of the people in our shop, I'm not smitten. Even though I drove it only briefly, my impressions go even beyond Brent's. You see, driving the MR is just like playing a video game. And for you Gen-Zed kids out there, I mean that in a non-flattering way. Although the steering is very accurate, it feels completely disconnected. The force-stroke feeling of the paddles shifters is also near non-existent - it's not really a cheap feeling, it's almost no feeling. Like the paddle controllers for your Xbox. And when you turn the ignition off, a full second elapses before the engine is killed. Weird. Like our STI, I suspect you have to wring this pup's neck before you derive any enjoyment from it. I'll give it another chance and be more brutal next time. Who knows, I may end up liking it.

Albert Austria, Sr Vehicle Eval Engineer @ 3076 mi

September 2, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR: Better Transmission Than GT-R

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Yes, you read that correctly. Both our long-term 2008 Mitsubishi Evo X and 2009 Nissan GT-R have dual-clutch manual gearboxes, but there are subtle differences that make the Evo X's TC-SST more versatile and driver-oriented than the GT-R's DCT.

One- click the paddles in quick succession to drop two (or three) gears, and the Evo "remembers" to give you the second (or third) downshift. The GT-R ignores any additional paddle-clicks until it's done with the first gearchange you requested.

Two- manual gearchanges in the Evo can be commanded via the paddles OR the console selector. The GT-R' s console selector has no manual "gate" at all. I switch between the Evo's paddles and selector depending on the driving conditions.

Three- If you're in auto mode, both the Evo and the GT-R will switch into manual mode simply by flicking a paddle. The difference, though, is that this single paddle-flick in the Evo will give you a gearchange, whereas in the GT-R it simply gives you manual mode. To get the gearchange you were looking for in the first place, you have to hit the GT-R's paddle a second time.

Four- When switching back into auto mode, you can simply by holding the Evo's right-hand paddle for a second, or just wait and it will "timeout" and return to auto mode. The GT-R requires you take your hand off the wheel to slap the spring-loaded console lever--it will never "timeout" and revert to auto mode on its own.

Jason Kavanagh, Engineering Editor @ 3,050 miles.

August 29, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Evolution X MR: The Most Comfortable Car in the World?

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Well, yes, depending on the context. Last night several of your favorite editors carpooled in our long-term 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR en route to a go-kart track. After an hour of fun (the stupid kind) and physical punishment (the kind that happens when 6-footers stuff themselves into go-karts) on an oval slick track, we climbed back into the Evo.

And, well, it was pure heaven. Those Recaro seats have never felt so roomy and luxurious. And no Evo, X or otherwise, has ever had such a compliant ride. "The dash is so high," said the front passenger, "and I can't believe how much car is around me."

After a couple quick cuts in traffic, I was informed by the others that I was still driving like I was in a go-kart. But in the Evolution X, it was all OK. No, it doesn't have go-kart (or even go-kart-like) reflexes, but it feels well under control should one's steering and throttle inputs tend toward the abrupt.

Is it all a little too dumbdriver-proof? Maybe. But last night, while riding the wave of euphoria that comes with piloting a buzzy little kart, I was probably a little dumber than usual.

Erin Riches, Inside Line Senior Editor @ 2,882 miles

August 27, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X MR: It's an Automatic!

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This car is kick-ass. I was hesitant to take it last night on the account of the fact I was wearing some clunky heels but since I haven't driven our 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo yet I thought, "Why the hell not? I'll just put on my running shoes from my gym bag." And it was a good thing I opted for the Evo. It's an automatic! And with paddle shifters. I had just assumed that it would be stick. Our Subie WRX is. OK, OK, it's not really an automatic, per se, but rather a twin-clutch. But I was just glad there wasn't a clutch pedal to deal with.

Anyway, unlike our 2002 M3 which intimidates the heck out of me, this one is so easy to drive. And it's so much fun! And OMG so fast! True, I only took it out on the freeway when it was actually free and clear but the steering is pretty light. I couldn't resist quick turns much to the chagrin of my roommate who currently is suffering from a stiff neck.

We were driving around and she had just finished telling me that her neck felt like she had whiplash and that it hurt when she moved it and then I had to make a quick right and took it too fast for her. "Oww, my neck," she moaned, clutching her neck. "Oops! Sorry!" I said...but then not two minutes later, I took another turn quickly. "I can't help it," I cried, when she moaned again. "It's this car. It's too fun!" Seriously. I couldn't stop driving this car like that.

And I love that there's no clutch pedal. I can have fun regardless of shoe type.

Caroline Pardilla, Deputy Managing Editor @ 2,745 miles

August 21, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X: Without Excuse

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I've been avoiding this car. I assumed it would be too harsh for me and that I'd hate it. I was wrong. The next time a "real" enthusiast or PR rep insists that great handling cars have a harsh ride by nature, I'm calling BS and pointing to the Evo. It's untrue, this car proves it - if you think sharp handling means a bone jarring ride, the Evo X mocks you with its very existence. 

The Mitsu also feels like a more precise, more athletic car than the STI. The Evo is just brilliant - tons of power w/o feeling unruly, sharp handling w/o being harsh and an excellent transmission that snaps through upshifts like a WRC winner then goes into full-on automatic mode like it's some sort of Audi.

Who said this car is too soft? If you must suffer, get a 350Z.

Brian Moody, Road Test Editor.  

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo MR: TC-SST Gearing

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The transmission gearing in our 2008 Lancer Evo MR is noticeably shorter than our long-term STI's gearing. The Evo MR, of course, comes with Mitsubishi's new seqential-shift automated manual transmission (TC-SST).

You'll notice it even around town. If you're in manual mode, accelerating moderately from a stop and shifting at around 3,000 or 4,000 rpm, you'll be tugging on that right paddle frequently.

There's also a wide gear-ratio gap going from fourth gear to fifth gear. It's like Mitsubishi set the first four gears for acceleration and then made fifth and sixth way taller for cruising on the highway.

You can see the difference here. I also included the Nissan 350Z just for funsies.

evo_gearing.JPG

Brent Romans, Senior Automotive Editor

August 15, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo MR: Digitized Drive

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I decided to burn a few hours this Friday morning to take our 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR out for some exercise. It was a nice escape, of course, as well as informative. As capable as our Evo is, there's one quality about it that left me a little disappointed.

Continue reading...

August 11, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo MR: Domestic Chores

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While canyon roads or a race track are no doubt our 2008 Lancer Evolution's preferred habitat, I had to use the Evo for some domestic errand running this weekend. On Saturday morning, I went grocery shopping with my one-year-old daughter. Having four doors and a decent-sized backseat allowed easy fitment of the rear-facing safety seat, something that can't be said for similarly priced performance cars in a coupe body style (Mustang, 350Z, etc.).

I was a bit surprised when it came time to load the groceries, however. For better weight distribution, Mitsubishi's city council rezoned the trunk, and it's now home for the battery, washer fluid and possibly great residential home buys in the low 200s.

 

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The battery and fluid are located behind the plastic covering you see in the picture. So this, along with extra bracing that Mitsubishi installed, prevents having fold-down rear seats or even a pass-through. Further space is taken up by the optional subwoofer. As you can see, I didn't have any problems loading a few grocery bags, but more stuff would certainly be a problem, something that Dan covered very well in two earlier WRX STi posts (here and here).

Brent Romans, Senior Automotive Editor @ 1,974 miles

August 8, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo MR: Factory Big Brakes

 

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"Whoa."

This was about all my passenger could utter yesterday after he rebounded off the seatbelt and back into the Evo's Recaro seat. I had just come to a stop after hammering the brakes from about 75 mph.

Getting up to 75 mph at full throttle was also demonstrated, but by his wide-eyed look, I think my friend was more impressed with the loss of velocity rather than the gain.

You probably saw our earlier post with testing numbers; 60-0 mph took just 108 feet. All Mitsubishi Lancer Evolutions get a Brembo brake upgrade, with four-piston front calipers, 13.8-inch front rotors and 13.0-inch rotors in back.

On the MR trim level, you also get two-piece rotor construction for reduced weight. Mitsubishi says it's good for a 3-pound reduction per corner. The MR also comes with the forged BBS wheels, worth another 2 pounds of weight reduction per wheel.

Whoa.

Brent Romans, Senior Automotive Editor

August 4, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR: Now That's a Wing

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Took the EVO to the car wash this morning. The powers that be at Orange Wash and Wax called a committee meeting as soon as I asked for the "Shine and Protect," which, by the way, does neither.

The concern, it appeared, surrounded the wing. More precisely, the size and shape of the wing which stands proud of the trunk by about 12 inches. My Spanish isn't the best, but I didn't need to speak the language to understand the hand gestures. It was immediately clear that the committee feared the giant automated brush might just remove our EVO's wing. But, after a few minutes of heated gestures and machine-gun Spanish, the Wing Removal Council decided it would be OK. And it was.

By the way, we tested the EVO last week. Here are the results:

0-60: 5.7 seconds

1/4 mile: 14.0 seconds @ 98.1 mph

60-0: 108 feet

Skid pad: .91g

Slalom: 68.9 mph

The .91g skid pad performance makes us curious since we've recorded much better numbers in the past. Look for a retest in coming weeks.

Josh Jacquot, Senior road test editor

 

 

July 30, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Evo X MR: Takin' Her Around the Block

You'll Need All That Power in this Neighborhood

Sadlier and I needed to drop the Kia Rondo off at Stokes Tires, so for a pick-up vehicle, I grabbed the keys to our newest long-termer, the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR. Seeing as Sadlier's always itchin for some Rondorific action, I let him take that. Wanted to keep him happy, you know.

Although I'm sure my thoughts will evolve (ha, pun so intended), the Evo and its TS-SST-USS-ESSEX transmission or whatever the hell it's called proved to be pretty damn cool even on a short slog through Santa Monica. There's really no way to drive this car slow. Tip just a hair past the 2,900 mark and the car just explodes, sending the tach needle soaring to redline. Shifts are lightning quick, and in normal mode, I actually found them to be smoother and immediate than DSG/S tronic. It's certainly vastly superior to the R8's herky jerky R tronic.

Another pleasant surprise was the Recaro driver seat. Aside from the fact that it hugs you more than a jolly rummed up Sumo wrestler, they're mounted higher than those in our departed long-term Lancer GTS, which I could never find a comfortable spot in. The Recaros don't adjust for height, which will probably cause problems for a few folks around here, but for tall dude Riswick, they provided an adequate amount of leg support.

I've never exactly been itching for the keys to the STI, but after this brief drive, the Evo is calling my name. It should be a fun year.

James Riswick, Automotive Editor @ 677 miles

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