European Debut Of The Mitsubsihi Lancer Evolution VIII
Published: 14th January 2003
For the next 12 months the UK will be the only European country where the new Lancer Evolution VIII is on sale. As the cars are manufactured in Japan early in 2003, they will be shipped to Mitsubishi in the UK. Sales are expected to start during March and around 1,000 units will be available in the UK this year.
Because of the formulisation of manufacturing and distributing Ralliart products throughout the world, the Evolution VIII will have a retail price of £26,995, £3,000 lower than the current model. A top of the range Evo VIII FQ model with over 300 bhp will continue to be offered and this will sell at £28,995, £2,500 lower than the comparative Evo VII FQ variant. The FQ specification and power output will be announced prior to the cars going on sale in the spring, but for the Evolution VIII, the FQ pack is being developed by Mitsubishi Ralliart Europe based in Rugby, the company which prepares and operates Mitsubishi’s world rally cars.
Evolution of the Evolution VIII
Sleek but aggressive styling retains the legend that is Evo. A new face proudly wearing the famous three diamonds logo. Under the skin is much more. Like all its predecessors, the Evo VIII is spawned from motorsport.. Power output is 276 bhp as standard, with the FQ package developed by Ralliart Europe in the UK boosting power to more than 300 bhp.
For the first time in its production car history a 6-speed manual transmission is used. A new Super Active Yaw Control system sharpens up handling and refines power distribution through the rear wheels. Exterior looks are the first noticeable difference between the new generation Evo VIII and its predecessors. A significantly restyled and rounded front end incorporates more than just a new grille and bumper. The bonnet has sculptured styling lines within it, but it is noticeably different with the addition of a huge air intake for the intercooler. New driving lights at the front – together with a large carbonate rear spoiler, new rear light clusters and new 17-inch alloy wheels set the new model apart from those which have gone before. Recaro seats, Momo steering wheel, fully automatic air conditioning match luxury with performance.
