It’s a bittersweet moment when you realize you’re experiencing the end of an era. For automotive enthusiasts, seeing the 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution GSR sitting in the driveway evokes just that feeling. This isn’t just another used car review; it’s a farewell, a salute to a vehicle that represents the culmination of Mitsubishi’s rally-bred engineering and a final opportunity to experience a truly raw and exhilarating performance machine. We are incredibly fortunate to spend time with a 2015 model, albeit one that has seen its fair share of road action, as this marks the final year of production for the legendary Evo. This car isn’t just deserving of a review; it warrants a proper celebration of its legacy.
The Mitsubishi Lancer, in its standard form, is a practical and economical compact sedan, often overshadowed by giants in its segment. However, within the Lancer lineage, a special variant emerged – the Evolution, or Evo. These weren’t just ordinary Lancers; they were meticulously engineered performance vehicles, diamonds in the rough that transformed the mundane into the extraordinary. The Evo became synonymous with incredible speed and handling, punching far above its weight class and challenging established sports cars.
The formula behind the 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution’s brilliance isn’t complex, but it is brilliantly executed. Take a compact car platform, inject it with a potent, turbocharged engine, and then meticulously upgrade every performance-critical component. Enhanced suspension, powerful brakes, and high-grip tires are just the beginning. The Evo, like its rival the Subaru WRX STI, leverages the advantage of all-wheel drive. This is the key ingredient that unlocks its phenomenal performance, providing unparalleled traction and control. Forget complicated driving modes; the Evo offers a refreshingly simple yet effective system: Tarmac, Gravel, and Snow. This straightforward approach translates to pure, unadulterated speed that often surprises even seasoned drivers.
For years, the Subaru STI held a special place in the hearts of performance car enthusiasts. However, a back-to-back track test against the Mitsubishi Evo can be a transformative experience. The 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution showcases superior handling prowess, maintaining composure and flatness through corners where the STI might exhibit more body roll. The Evo delivers a raw, visceral driving experience, feeling directly connected to the road, while the Subaru can feel slightly more insulated. While both are undeniably fun and capable machines, the Evo’s more direct and engaging nature often resonates deeply with driving purists, even those with a history of Subaru ownership.
Whether on a racetrack or pushing the limits on a back road (within legal boundaries, of course!), the 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution inspires confidence. It’s a car that allows you to explore its performance envelope, operating at nine-tenths without trepidation. Its handling is predictable and communicative. Push too hard into a corner, and it will gently understeer. Want to induce a drift? A controlled application of the throttle will oblige. Having recently tested a Ford Mustang with a turbocharged engine and performance tires, it’s clear that in the real world, for most drivers, the Evo would be the faster car in challenging conditions due to its superior grip and all-wheel-drive system.
Priced around $40,000, the 2015 Evo GSR offers a compelling package. It includes features like leather seats, a manual transmission for purists, and a standard stereo system (albeit with the volume knob in an unconventional position). If your priority is to impress with flashy aesthetics and luxury features, the Evo might not be the ideal choice, except among a discerning group of street racing and rally enthusiasts who understand its true value. However, if you crave real-world speed and performance, underpinned by a robust turbocharged engine and the stability provided by its (admittedly large) rear wing, the 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution stands as one of the last of its kind. With its departure from the market, a void is left for those seeking uncompromised, raw driving thrills in a relatively affordable package.
2015 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo (Evolution) GSR
Base Price: $34,495
Price As Tested: $39,105 (including destination charge)
Likes:
- Exceptional Drivetrain and AWD System
- Unassuming, Simple Design (Function over Form)
- Unbeatable Performance Value
Dislikes:
- Understated Design (Lacks Visual Drama for some)
- Dated Infotainment System
- Absence of Navigation System (easily remedied with aftermarket options)
The 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is more than just a car; it’s a statement. It’s a testament to Mitsubishi’s engineering prowess and a final, glorious chapter in the story of a rally-bred icon. Its departure marks the end of an era, but its legend will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of driving enthusiasts for years to come.
