2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X Review
Price
RM330,072
Installment
RM3,148/mth
2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X at a glance
The 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X is less hardcore and speaks to a wider audience. Yes, the technology, performance and handling are still there in abundance but it is also more comfortable and easier to live with.
2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X quick specs
| Body Style | Sedan |
| Class | Sports/GT |
| Assembled | - |
| Engine Range | - |
| Fuel Options | - |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X ratings (overall rating : 3.5/5.0)
| Styling | |
| Handling | |
| Comfort | |
| Quality + Reliability | |
| Performance |
| Roominess | |
| Running Costs | |
| Value for Money | |
| Equipment | |
| Environment |
Styling
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X looks bigger, sharper and more grown up than before. As sporty as the previous Evolution looked, it had little road presence, something that the 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X has in abundance. The front end stands out as particularly aggressive. The only complain remains the high degree of resemblance between the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X and mainstream Lancers.
Handling
In typical Evolution fashion, S-AWC permanent all-wheel drive system and a host of electronic aids are available to best utilise the torque and power on tap. The resultant drive is one of tremendous grip, minimal body lean, and excellent balance. The steering seems to have lost some crispness, but it remains sharp, responsive and informative.
Comfort
Compared to the rock-hard ride found in previous Evolutions, the ride quality is now firm and shows signs of compliancy. Cabin noise levels are also down, mainly due to lesser engine noise intrusion when cruising. Wind noise is not much of a problem, but road noise could be at times. The cabin is easy to get comfortable in, especially with the leather Recaro front bucket seats and the uncluttered control layout. Some may find the seating and steering adjustments inadequate though.
Quality + Reliability
The interior looks and feels similar to the standard Lancer's, meaning superb build quality but without the cabin material quality to match. Mitsubishi has an outstanding reputation for mechanical reliability, and the 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X should be hassle-free for years to come as long as it is properly maintained.
Performance
Powering the 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X is a 2.0-litre 16-valve DOHC MIVEC turbocharged engine generating 291bhp at 6500 rpm and 366 Nm at 3500 rpm. Performance is simply blistering, and strong across the rev-range. The standard six-speed TC-SST (Twin Clutch Sport Shift Transmission), with magnesium paddle shifters, can operate in automatic or manual mode, and provides three shifting programs (normal, sports or super sports) to choose from. The powerful Brembo brakes are also worthy of mention.
Roominess
Front driver and passenger will have no complains regarding head- or leg-room. The rear can accommodate three passengers with plenty of legroom, but headroom is limited for taller passengers. The boot capacity is disappointing, no thanks to intruding rear wheel arches.
Running Costs
Fuel economy stands at 9.3 km/litre. We expect servicing costs and potential depreciation to be reasonable. The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X's fine reputation and relative lack of numbers on the roads should be able to mitigate the depreciation and support the resale values.
Value for Money
Without a doubt, the 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X is asking for money that can get you luxury cars. The Subaru Impreza WRX STI, its main rival, is cheaper too. Both the Evolution and WRX were thought to be high-performance, high-tech cars that emphasize on handling and speed, with little regard for comfort or utility. Indeed, the emphasis is still on performance. But consider the improved comfort levels and cabin quality, comprehensive equipment list and room for five, and the 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X is clearly an Evolution that appeals to a wider, if less hardcore, audience while retaining its massive ability.
Equipment
The 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X is easily the best-equipped compared to its predecessors. 18-inch BBS forged aluminium alloy wheels, seven airbags, Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), electrical slide and tilt sunroof, sport-type leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio and auto-cruise control, multi-information display, auto-rain sensing wipers, RECARO front seats, fully automatic air-conditioner, keyless operation system, and Rockford Fosgate premium audio system with nine speakers are standard.
Environment
256 grams/km of carbon dioxide emissions and 9.3 km/litre of fuel consumption are not figures that environmentalists take kindly to. Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X drivers are likely to keep the engine at the higher revs, where the fun is, thereby denting the figures further.
Live Life Drive Verdict
Handsome good looks
Brilliant performance and handling
Improved comfort levels
More driving position adjustments needed
Cabin materials not good enough at this price
Small boot capacity
