New Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X

Is the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X cuter than a puppy and slower than a golf buggy? Nope! It is a hard-core – no compromise – rally-inspired predator that can shake your fillings loose at five-hundred yards. But why? In top-spec FQ-360 GSR form, the Lancer's 2.0-litre petrol engine produces 359PS and 363lb ft of torque. That monstrous power propels this four-door saloon to 62mph in 4.1 seconds. Top speed is a teeth shattering 155mph. No golf buggy can match that (I have tried). Power is sent to every corner via five-speed manual transmission – and the handling is astonishing. Mind blowing, perhaps?

Now, car design is a compromise.

Manufacturers can produce something extremely fast – but it cannot be frugal too. City cars are small and easy park, but they cannot have the same cargo capacity as a large MPV. As such, the top-of-the-range Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X only averages 19.9mpg. This falls to 12.9mpg in town. Furthermore, the ride is rather firmer – but it is more comfortable than the previous generation. It is, therefore, relatively easy to live with every day – especially as it has a spacious 400-litre boot. That is larger than the Ford Focus Hatchback's 'seat-up' capacity. What a lot of car for £37,799.

By Stephen Turvil, motoring.co.uk

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