Pour out some high test for the 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, because it’s on the way out.
The Japanese carmaker confirmed previous reports of the “Evo’s” impending death, announcing that it would be discontinued with the 2015 model, which receives a handful of minor updates for its final year.
The 2015 Evo gets heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals, a new cup holder, more standard features for the MR model, and an optional Premium package on the GSR model. Talk about going out with a whimper.
Through 10 generations, the Evo challenged all comers on road and rally stage, leading to an epic rivalry with Subaru and its Impreza-based WRX. However, while Subaru recently launched a redesigned WRX for the 2015 model year, Mitsubishi has put the Evo on the back burner.
The company is focusing on building out its emaciated lineup with more fuel-efficient cars and crossovers. With fewer resources available compared to larger competitors, a low-volume specialty model like the Evo can no longer be justified.
Looking ahead, a revival is possible. However, the next high-performance Mitsubishi will likely be very different from the current Lancer Evolution.
There have been several rumors that a new Evo would use a hybrid powertrain, and Mitsubishi may even ditch the four-door sedan format and build a sports car, in the vein of the 1990s 3000GT, instead.
Either of those cars could be an amazing technological achievement, and they’ll have to be to match the capability, practicality, and rally pedigree of the current Lancer Evolution. If that sounds good to you, go out and buy one while you still can.
