Last month, we reported that Mitsubishi’s interest in developing new sedans was at an all-time low, as their sales volumes wouldn’t justify the cost of development. It spelt the end of an era, especially when you consider just how important Mitsubishi’s Lancer nameplate was to the brand and its fans. Well, it looks like the company isn’t going to delay the inevitable. The concept it revealed in December of last year has now been launched, with orders being taken in Japan.
The final version of what might be the final Lancer is aptly called the ‘Lancer Evolution Final Edition’. The 2-litre MIVEC turbocharged petrol engine will produce more than the regular MIVEC’s 291 hp according to reports, but no official performance numbers have been released yet. What we do know is that the engine has been lightened and sodium-filled exhaust valves have been added to achieve a higher output. It also comes with a 5-speed manual gearbox, with suspension coming from Bilstein and Eibach.
The Final Edition’s US$35,800 price tag is hardly worth mentioning, given that only 1000 will be made exclusively for customers in Japan, who can expect delivery of the by August this year. Being as exclusive and special as it is, the Final Edition will receive an insignia and plaque that indicates exactly which of the 1000 cars each particular unit is.
Five colour choices, namely red, black, white, blue and grey are offered to customers, though they all come with a glossy black front bumper that divides the upper and lower grille of the car. All-in-all, not a bad way to say goodbye to the legendary sportscar.
