16 December 2007, 08:56 in

Evo X preview

I received a pass to the preview of the new Mitsubishi Evo X which was on at Burswood on Thursday evening. I snapped a few photos which was difficult because it was quite dark in the room and there were so many people in the way all the time.

Evo X preview at Burswood (13 Dec 2007)Evo X preview at Burswood (13 Dec 2007)Evo X preview at Burswood (13 Dec 2007)Evo X preview at Burswood (13 Dec 2007)Evo X preview at Burswood (13 Dec 2007)Evo X preview at Burswood (13 Dec 2007)

The Evo X will still use a 2L, four cylinder, turbocharged engine. The most significant technological additions are the new Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC), and the choice of an automated paddle shift transmission (normal manual transmission also available). I was told the Evo X will go on sale in Australia in March 2008.

I wouldn’t call any of the Evo models “beautiful” in terms of appearance, but I still like the tough and purposeful looks of the VII, VIII, and IX. The IX has a nice blend of hard and soft lines. I hated the first concept photos I saw of the Evo X, and have to admit that it looks much better in the flesh than it does in photos. I don’t like the two-tone plastic grill at the front (more evident on the red car), or the rear of the car (especially the spoiler). I think the dark grey car looks better than the red one. I noticed the interior was nicer than the IX and felt like it had more room.

It seems Evo X will be somewhat more powerful, slightly larger, more expensive, yet heavier and overall slightly slower than the IX. I guess this is likely the result of Mitsubishi trying to make the car appeal to a wider audience. I think it’s a shame because the Evo was one of the few hard edged performance cars in its price range, and now it too is being dulled for increased comfort and livability.

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