Autoblog

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Mitsubishi Evolution X

We've already spent some wheel time in the Mitsubishi Evolution X GSR, and despite some dynamic criticisms, we're convinced that the new Evo remains one of the most compelling performance bargains south of $40-grand. But what about the MR? Mitsubishi contends that its top-of-the-line Evo is aimed at discerning drivers looking for a compromise between brute force and comfort. Well, that balance comes at a price, and when the MR hits dealers this June, soft-bottomed enthusiasts will have to pony up $38,290 to get behind the wheel of the more "luxurious" Evo X.

The MR comes standard with Mitsubishi's new six-speed, Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST) and all the other features found on the standard GSR. If you option up the MR with the Technology Package, which includes a 30-gig harddrive navigation system, 650-watt Rockford-Fosgate Premium Sound Package, Sirius Satellite Radio and "FAST Key" entry system, the price rockets skyward to the tune of $40,840. Considering some of the competition playing around at that particular price point, buyers might have a tough time passing the BMW dealer on their way to Mitsubishi. Mitsubishi's press release is available after the jump.


[Source: Mitsubishi]

Click either image for a high-res rendering of each model at AutoExpress.

Mitsubishi and Subaru are entering round two of the newest battle for all-wheel-drive supremacy and AutoExpress has ringside seats. Both automakers are preparing hard-core versions of their turbocharged, rally-bred road rockets and that means more power, more aerodynamic mods and, in the case of Subaru, less weight.

The Lancer Evolution X MR is on the way, with a new fascia equipped with extra venting and a new air intake, while a revised rear wing, side skirts and blacked-out wheels complete the exterior makeover. Output is increased by 20 hp (in JDM spec) to 305 hp and the mid-range has been tweaked to provide more low-end torque, dropping the 0-60 time to under five seconds. The paddle-shifted SST twin-clutch transmission transfers over from the GSR model (likely with some software revisions) and the body has been stiffened to maximize the MR's handling.

Subaru is taking a different tack, keeping power upgrades to the STI's turbo'd 2.5-liter boxer to a minimum and instead focusing on weight reduction. The Impreza WRX STI Spec C will get a slightly revised aero kit, with a roof scoop (functional?), standard gold wheels, a lightweight roof, aluminum trunk lid, compact battery, smaller fuel tank and thinner compartment glass all around. All that work is expected to result in a 154-pound drop in weight, so the Spec C will tip the scales at just over 3,000 pounds.

Subaru is also planning to equip the new Legacy with the STI's drivetrain, a revised suspension and slapping on an "S402" badge on the back, along with a sporting interior with more grippy seats. All of this is only for JDM consumption at the moment, but we'd expect to see both the MR and Spec C hit the UK next year, with sales in the U.S. of the MR coming around the same time.

[Source: AutoExpress]

Click the image above for more shots of Mitsubishi's Evolution X.

We're counting down the days before our departure to Japan for the Tokyo Motor Show, and as we mark each passing date with a red "X" it takes on a special meaning.

Car and Driver's initial review of the Mitsubishi Evolution X has already given us some of the specs, including the new blown two-liter's rating of 295 HP and 300 lb.-ft. of torque in GSR and MR guise. Now, Mitsubishi has released three images showing the JDM-spec Evo's exterior, and one pic that reveals what U.S. buyers can expect to enjoy while sitting in the new Evo MR's cockpit.

Check the gallery below for more.

[Source: Kicking Tires]