After nearly a decade of silence since the last Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution rolled off production lines in 2016, there might be renewed hope for fans of the iconic rally car. At the recent Japan Mobility Show, Senior Engineering Fellow Kaoru Sawase—often referred to as the “godfather” of Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel Control system—sparked rumors of a potential Evo revival. While he stopped short of confirming development, Sawase stated plainly, “We have a dream, of course, for Lancer Evolution. It’s my personal dream.”
This statement offers a tantalizing glimpse into Mitsubishi’s internal discussions, suggesting the Evo nameplate hasn’t been completely relegated to automotive history. However, Sawase also emphasized that any new Evo would need to incorporate modern powertrain technology. He specifically mentioned “electrification,” hinting at a potential hybrid or even fully electric powertrain—a stark departure from the gas-guzzling beasts of old.
This idea aligns with Mitsubishi’s recent concept vehicles but also contradicts it somewhat. The automaker showcased the Elevance SUV concept at the Tokyo Motor Show, featuring a sophisticated plug-in hybrid system rather than an all-electric setup. Perhaps they envision distinct technology paths for different performance models.
Adding another layer of intrigue, Mitsubishi has been actively revitalizing its Ralliart performance sub-brand, integrating it into several current models like the Outlander. This renewed focus on performance could serve as a promising indicator for Evo enthusiasts.
The company’s past actions suggest that, if greenlit, a new Evo wouldn’t simply be an updated rehash of the last generation. It would need to embody modern design sensibilities and technological advancements while retaining the core DNA that made previous Evos legendary: formidable all-wheel-drive performance, precision handling, and raw speed.
Ultimately, whether this dream becomes reality remains to be seen. Mitsubishi hasn’t committed to developing a new Evo. For now, fans can only patiently await further announcements and hope their beloved rally legend roars back to life in the future.
