Mitsubishi Has Just Announced The Return Of The Lancer Evo, And It's Going To Be An SUV

In September 2015, Mitsubishi announced that the world-famous Lancer Evolution would be discontinued. Petrolheads all over the world were shocked: In 24 years the classic JDM machine had built up a big fan base.

But now, Mitsubishi has announced its return. Just like they are about to re-launch the Eclipse as an SUV, they’re now doing the same thing with the Lancer. They share the same GS platform and engines. The Eclipse Cross fills the gap between the small ASX and the big Outlander. The Lancer Cross will be the biggest model in Mitsubishi’s SUV range, being about 5.5 meters long and comfortably seating 7 people.

The Lancer Cross comes with 1,5- and 2-litre Petrol engines and a 2,2-litre Diesel, a Plug-In Hybrid is also planned. AWD is an option, but the car comes with FWD for standard.
The 2-liter engine is the same as in the Evo X, but now makes 340hp. It’s only available in the ‘Evolution’-Line, which includes 20” wheels, bonnet vents, and an aero kit.

The design of the Cross-Evo is heavily based on the GT-PHEV Concept which was unveiled in Paris 2016.

The interior of the concept is very sleek, with four big screens and a touchpad. Most of what can be seen here will be included in the production car as well. The ‘Evolution’-Line will come with three extra digital gauges in the center console and red stitching on the steering wheel.

Mitsubishi also claims that the new SUV will drive as fantastic as the old Evo models. According to some officials Mitsubishi is working on a new suspension technique designed to eliminate body roll. This might be extremely useful, considering the car’s high centre of gravity and the weight of over 2,5 tonnes. The Active Yaw Control (AYC) of the old Evos is on board as well.

It’s expected that the Lancer Cross will launch by the end of 2018, so stay tuned for that! Sure, it hasn’t got much similarities to the old ones, but at least it’s back - and it’s more spacious inside! Even better: As SUVs usually sell pretty good, Mitsubishi might actually make profit with this car - if it has enough success, they might even make an Evo XII! We cant wait to test it - and find out if it really deserves the Evo label!
And who knows, if this trend continues, we might see more of our old favorite cars being reborn as SUVs - for example the Mazda RX-7, the Toyota Supra or the Dodge Viper.
Leave your comments down below which car you’d want to be given another chance as an SUV!

Tobi aka The Stig’s German Cousin