2006 Mitsubishi Evolution MR

Tom Collins
The Auto Answerman
KEZW Radio
Denver

Vehicle Type: AWD Sports Sedan
MSRP: $36,299

Overview:
There are 3 models offered, all feature the same 2.0 Liter turbocharged Intercooled 4- cylinder producing 286 hp and 289 pound feet of torque with full-time All Wheel Drive. The entry level RS starts at $29,149. The IX or Evolution 9 adds Remote Keyless Entry, Power Windows and Locks with a CD Player and ABS. Leather interior and a Power Sunroof are Optional on the IX. Both the RS and IX come standard with a 5-Speed Manual. 4-Wheel Disc Brakes, A/C and Power Mirrors are Standard across the board on all models. Cruise Control and an Automatic transmission are not offered. We don’t need a stinkin’ Automatic! The top of the line MR gets a 6-Speed manual. According to the Mitsubishi website, Leather is not available on the MR yet it is optional on the IX. The MR starts at $36,299.

Under The Hood:
It’s our old friend the 4G63. This is the same basic inline 4 that powered my 91 Eagle Talon. It’s been updated of course, to include among other things, Mitsubishi’s Innovative Valve Timing and lift Electronic Control or MIVEC for short. This system offers fuel economy in city driving conditions without sacrificing performance. Below 3500 RPM MIVEC adjusts itself to allow crisp throttle response. As engine speed increases MIVEC spreads power delivery throughout the rest of the RPM range by allowing more air into the combustion chambers. I assume this is done by holding the intake valves open longer but this is not stated on the website. Mitsubishi claims that the 4G63 has the highest power-to-displacement ratio of any inline 4 cylinder engine available. The standard turbo charger and air to air intercooler make this engine a screamer. As stated earlier, power output is rated at 286 with 289 pound feet of torque.

Behind the Wheel:
It’s a good place to be, trust me. Ripping through the gears in this car is an absolute blast. The large wing on the trunk deck inspires a lot of attention among fellow motorist who seem to believe the Evo is all show and no go. I don’t endorse street racing mind you but what the hell, this is basically a race car. What am I supposed to do when some would be hotshot wants to run ‘em? To be clear, I never formally lined up and raced anyone, I just blew by them in (light) traffic. Based on my experience you are basically king of the road with this car. I never put it up against a Corvette or a Viper but at least one Mustang driver is now a Mitsubishi believer. Interestingly, pickup drivers were the most common challengers. Pulease!

The Evolution takes a bit of getting used to if you are not an experienced turbo car driver. Yes, there is some turbo lag from a stop but when the tach hits 3500 RPM the fireworks begin. This car will knock the hat off your head. This actually happened to me while driving the MR! The transmission shifts very crisply and clutch take-up is smooth. Outstanding brakes with Brembo 4-piston calipers up front and 2-piston calipers on the rear. Steering is direct and precise. The AWD does away with any fears of torque steer. The AWD also helps make the Evolution MR one the sweetest handling cars on the market. Find a lonely twisty road and cut it up. The MR is fitted with Bilstein MacPherson struts front and a Multi-link configuration in the rear. Stabilizer bars are located front and rear with a strut tower brace under the hood. W- Speed rated Yokohama P235/45 rubber provide the grip.

Remember that the Evolution is based on the Lancer sedan meaning that you have 4 doors on this car. The Recaro buckets in the front provide excellent support. I can’t tell you about the back seats. I never got back there! I was having too much fun in the front seat. Mitsubishi has provided a full gauge cluster with a boost gauge under the dash. Tunes are provided by a 140 watt system with 6 speakers. Sound quality is excellent. Speaking of sound, some have knocked the Evolution because of a loud cabin and a stiff ride. This is a sports car. I did not notice it being especially loud and yes the ride is stiff. It’s supposed to be! If you want a quiet car with a soft ride look elsewhere.

One of my older neighbors commented that the Evolution looked like ‘A kids Car’. Well, I guess I’m still a kid at heart because I loved it! So mush so that I put the Evolution MR on my short list of favorite cars for 2006. I want one!! The long warranty is a plus also. You get a basic 60 month 60K mile warranty and Powertrain protection for 10 years or 100K miles. This should appeal to your wife’s practical side. It does have those 4 doors too, honey.

Tom Collins
4-9-06
www.theautoanswerman.com