2002.01 : The Lancer Evolution VII GT-A, the first automatic transmission
model in the Lancer Evolution series, was introduced. The Lancer Evolution
VII GT-A, based on the Evolution VII GSR, uses the INVECS-II Sport-Mode
5-speed automatic transmission. Sport-Mode enables the driver to shift
through the gears using either the manual gate or thumb-operated selectors
located on the steering wheel. The main features of the Lancer Evolution
VII GT-A are a flat engine hood, a small rear spoiler, and Multi-lamp HID
headlights.
2003.01 : Mitsubishi announced the release of the Lancer Evolution VIII
sports sedan in Japan on January 31.
The improved 2.0 liter DOHC twin-scroll turbocharged 4G63 engine makes
280 horsepower and 40.0kg-m of torque. The Lancer Evolution 8 adopts a
6 speed close-ratio gearbox to maximally utilize the engine's outstanding
power and torque characteristics. And the newly developed Super AYC and
ACD offer significant improvements in cornering and traction performance.
The Lancer Evolution VIII is equipped with the new-design front bumper,
the engine under cover, and an all carbon rear spoiler.
2004.02 : The Lancer Evolution VIII MR is introduced. The features of the
Lancer Evolution 8 MR are a lightweight roof panel, Bilstein shock absorbers,
BBS forged alloy wheels.
2005.03 : The Lancer Evolution IX was introduced. The 4G63 engine adopts
MIVEC ( Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control system) in
the intake system to improve fuel efficiency, and has improved the turbocharger
to achieve the higher torque.
The Lancer Evolution IX line-up includes :
The flagship GSR grade features ACD + Super AYC + Sports ABS electronically
controlled all-wheel control component system and a 6-speed manual gearbox.
The motorsport-specification RS uses a special lightweight body, a new
titanium-magnesium turbocharger, 5-speed gearbox and ACD + mechanical rear
LSD all-wheel control. And the GT grade that brings together RS's turbocharger
and drivetrain specification and GSR's comfortable-body with its enhanced
sound deadening.
2005. 09 : The Lancer Evolution Wagon was introduced. The Evolution Wagon
line-up includes the GT model with a 4G63 MIVEC intercooler turbo engine
that makes 280 horsepower and 6 speed manual transmission, and the GT-A
model with a 4G63 intercooler turbocharged engine that makes 272 horsepower
and 5 speed automatic transmission.
2006.08 : Mitsubishi announced that the Lancer Evolution IX MR high-performance 4WD sports sedan and the Lancer Evolution Wagon MR high-performance 4WD sports wagon go on sale.
The Lancer Evolution IX MR is available in two grades: the GSR with a 6-speed
manual gearbox and the RS with a 5-speed manual gearbox which is
stripped down for motorsport competition. The Lancer Evolution Wagon MR
also has two grades. The GT is equipped with a 6-speed manual gearbox and
the GT-A with a 5-speed automatic gearbox. They are the last
models to use the 4G63 2L DOHC intercooled turbo engine.
