Mitsubishi could bring back high-performance cars like the Lancer Evolution

Mitsubishi could bring back high-performance cars such as the Lancer Evolution X. The 11th generation of the legendary model from Mitsubishi could be fitted with the 2.0-litre turbo engine of the next-generation Renault Megane RS, which produces 345 CV.

The carmaker may be planning a revival of the iconic Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution as part of a return to its high-performance roots.

A rich history of Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X models is expected to continue, starting with the launch of the first-generation model in 1992, offering supercar-level acceleration together with the option of a traditional four-door or even five-door body style. According to Japanese sources.

Details of the future Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution remain scarce, but it is suggested that it will follow the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, produced between 2007 and 2016, which shared key powertrain elements with the latest Renault Mégane RS, including a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine coupled to a dual-clutch gearbox and an advanced all-wheel-drive system called S-AWC, developed by the manufacturer.

A new Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution on the way?

In its most powerful form, the existing front-wheel-drive Renault Mégane RS engine produces around 300 CV and 400 Nm of peak torque. However, extra electronic boost could come from a 48 V mild-hybrid system that may be under development for the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance. This Mild-Hybrid system could raise the power of the engine to 345 CV and 432 Nm of torque. These figures would match the 2.0-litre turbo engine fitted to the limited-edition Subaru Impreza WRX STi S209.

The 11th-generation all-wheel-drive Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is designed to sit on the CMF-C/D F4 platform developed within the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance. The current non-performance Mitsubishi Lancer was discontinued as an international model in 2017, but the name remains in use with a saloon that continues to be sold in Chinese-speaking markets due to its popularity.

The revival of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, part of the plan of the brand’s president, Osamu Masuko, to restore the Japanese manufacturer to its former position of strength among high-performance cars, would depend on the Lancer returning with a new generation. Masuko, 70, is willing to hand over his post as CEO to Takao Kato. However, the veteran of Mitsubishi will continue to lead the company as chairman.

Osamu Masuko’s earlier plans to develop a successor to the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X were suspended after a major loss at the company and its subsequent purchase by the Renault-Nissan alliance during 2016.