Auto Express Greatest Drives

	While the engine isn’t the most powerful ever to grace an Evo, it’s surprisingly tractable and well mannered.

Developed by Ralliart, the latest model is a more polished package than previous efforts. The main change is a reprogrammed ECU, along with a high-pressure fuel pump, and while the engine isn’t the most powerful ever to grace an Evo, it’s surprisingly tractable and well mannered.

Peak torque of 492Nm arrives at 3,200rpm, and consequently in-gear performance is amazingly potent, while outright acceleration remains astounding. The rally-bred rocket recorded the fourth quickest 0-60mph sprint and lap times, easily outpacing Audi’s RS4 in the process.

Thanks to electronically controlled four-wheel drive, the Mitsubishi handles superbly, cornering with the utmost precision and outrageous speed. The razor-sharp steering requires minimal inputs – it’s ideal for track driving, but sometimes it’s a little too responsive on the road.

Although it’s as civilised as lesser Evos, the FQ-360 is still not an ideal road car. The sudden thrust of torque lacks subtlety, the chassis is fidgety, the ride firm, the booming exhaust is intrusive and the dated cabin won’t win any awards for luxury. So, it’s much the same as any other Evo IX, only slightly faster and more expensive.

Text AUTO 192281 to 88833 to download the Mitsubishi Lancer engine ringtone to your phone.

(Service costs 150p per ringtone. Normal operator charges apply. Users must have a GPRS-enabled and compatible handset and be over 16. Support email mobile@dennis.co.uk.)