Next Mitsubishi Evo to target GT-R
Next Mitsubishi Evo To Be 500-Horsepower GT-R Rival
BY Viknesh Vijayenthiran Jul 21, 2013
A new generation of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is coming, only it wont be like any Evo weve seen before. Mitsubishi confirmed in 2011 it will be taking its Evo in a new direction, enhancing the breed while at the same time bowing to environmental pressures and changing consumer trends.
Numerous reports have suggested that some form of vehicle electrification was likely for the new Evo, an Evo XI to all the fans, but with a turbocharged four-cylinder (possibly a diesel) and all-wheel drive intact.
While this is still expected to be the case, Autocar is reporting that the car will be repositioned as a Nissan GT-R rival and have at least 500 horsepower on tap.
Such a move would entail repositioning the car as a standalone model and no longer part of the humble Lancer family, which was one of the most enduring traits of previous generations. It truly was an econo sedan with the performance to match a Porsche.
The Lancer platform is still said to be the basis of the new Evo, however. The next-generation Lancer is due next year so the Evo spinoff could be out within the next year or two, though Mitsubishis official stance is that it is still considering what form the new car will take.
It is alleged to be a plug-in hybrid, combining a turbocharged four-cylinder with two electric motors for a total system output of 500 horsepower. Mitsubishis Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) will also feature, but with the electric motors aiding traction instead of a traditional mechanical setup. The automakers MiEV Evolution II electric Pikes Peak racers are said to provide a glimpse of whats possible.
Like most plug-in hybrid vehicles, multiple driving modes including an electric only mode would aid economy. The setup will likely be an upgraded version of the drive system found in the 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV sold overseas.
Note, a similar setup will be installed in Acuras second-generation NSX and its rumored Nissan may follow suit for its next-generation R36 GT-R.
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