2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X FQ-300 review
New 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X FQ-300
By Tim Saunders, 27th January 2012
Road rage can be a problem and there have been many horror stories.
The unlikely antidote to this could be the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X FQ-300. It’s like a thug - other motorists treat it with respect and keep a respectful distance.
Could it be an unmarked police car? You never know these days...
Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X
The only other concern is that this highly desirable motor could be a target for thieves. However, there are so few Evos about that it surely wouldn’t be too hard to find again.
To put this sub-£40,000 brute in perspective it will hit 60mph from standstill in just five seconds placing it in AMG Mercedes, BMW M3 and even the £240,000 Bentley Contintental GTC turbo territory.
Lancer Evo X FQ-300
It’s when the 2-litre turbo, 290bhp Evo is stuck behind a tractor, a lorry or a dithering old age pensioner that it really comes into its own. It doesn’t matter that there’s a bend approaching because the grip is so awesome that it will propel you in complete safety. Push the accelerator down and aside from the massive adrenalin rush the landscape suddenly becomes a blur too.
The force generated is comparable to taking off in an aircraft, pushing the driver (and occupants) right back in their seats. The all-wheel drive Evo ensures that the magnificent power range is equally distributed each wheel, while Brembo brakes competently stop it when required. There are tarmac, gravel and snow functions as well as Sport mode.
It's no surprise that this is one of the most successful rally cars, alongside the Subaru Impreza. A smooth six-speed auto allows the driver to concentrate on the road but for added driving pleasure, there are very easy to use paddleshifts.
2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X FQ-300
Surprisingly you don‘t need to drive this vehicle fast to thoroughly enjoy it. Cruise around town and the tone of the exhaust and its eye-catching design is enough to attract attention. Its aggressive, purposeful and imposing looks mean that the Evo has immense road presence as it rumbles along.
It tackles the motorway with ease and smoother journeys improve fuel economy.
2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X FQ-300
That rocket-like power doesn‘t need to be used but just knowing that it‘s there is comforting. You know that it will get you out of trouble if required.
Parkers, the car experts, write: “The Mitsubishi Lancer is best known when it‘s in high performance Evo guise, but these models usually overshadow the standard model.”
2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X FQ-300
At a glance: Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X FQ-300
On the road price: £16,879 to £37,804
0-60mph: 5 seconds
Top speed: 155mph
Economy: 23mpg (extra urban)
