Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi's homologation special. Ten generations of Lancer Evolution from 1992-2016. AWD turbo with 4G63T (later 4B11T) engines.
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (often called Lancer Evo, Evo, or just Evo) is a sport sedan produced from 1992 to 2016 across ten generations. The Evolution was Mitsubishi's homologation special for World Rally Championship competition. The car evolved from a relatively conservative Lancer sedan into one of the most aggressive AWD performance sedans ever produced. The Evo lineage uses turbocharged 4G63T inline-four (Evo I-IX) or 4B11T inline-four (Evo X) engines making 280 horsepower factory rating in JDM markets (likely more in actual). The chassis uses Mitsubishi sophisticated AWD system with Active Yaw Control on the rear differential, providing exceptional cornering performance. Six-speed manual transmissions are standard; Evo X added the Twin Clutch SST automated manual. The Evolution generations: I-III (1992-1996, compact bodies), IV-VI (1996-2001, the 280 horsepower JDM era with Active Yaw Control), VII-IX (2001-2007, larger Lancer body, Brembo brakes, BBS wheels), and Evo X (2008-2016, 4B11T engine and SST gearbox). The Evo VI Tommi Makinen Edition is one of the most collectible. The Evolution has been the Subaru WRX STI's primary rival across multiple decades. The two cars share similar DNA (turbocharged AWD performance sedans) but differ in execution. Mitsubishi discontinued the Evo X in 2015-2016 with no successor. On WhipJury, Evolution submissions are particularly active. Evo VIII (2003-2005), Evo IX (2005-2007), and Evo X (2008-2016) are most common in North America. Modified examples with engine and chassis upgrades are common.
Evo I-III (1992-1996). Compact bodies, 4G63T turbo, AWD. Built primarily for Group A rally homologation.
Evo IV-VI (1996-2001). The 4G63 makes the famous 280 horsepower JDM cap. Active Yaw Control debuts. Evo VI Tommi Makinen Edition.
Evo VII-IX (2001-2007). Bigger Lancer body. Evo VIII MR and Evo IX MR FQ-360 are connoisseur picks.
Evo X (2008-2016). New 4B11T engine. Twin Clutch SST optional. Final Edition in 2015 ended the line.
Evo VIII and Evo IX are the most common in North America. Modified examples (with built engines, larger turbos, suspension upgrades) are common. Stock examples in clean condition reliably do well in voting. The community recognizes the Evo as one of the seminal modern AWD performance cars.