2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
The 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, often affectionately known as the "Evo," represents the pinnacle of Mitsubishi's performance sedan offerings. Building upon a rich motorsport heritage, the 2012 model continues to deliver a thrilling and engaging driving experience, blending rally-bred technology with everyday usability. This iteration, while a continuation of the highly regarded tenth generation, refines the formula with enhanced performance and refined features.
Highlights
- Engine: At the heart of the 2012 Lancer Evolution beats a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged and intercooled DOHC inline-4 MIVEC engine. This powerhouse delivers a formidable 291 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. This robust output, combined with Mitsubishi's renowned turbocharged technology, provides exhilarating acceleration and a broad, usable powerband, making it a joy for spirited driving.
- Safety Features: The Evo prioritizes safety alongside its performance credentials. Key features include:
- All-Wheel Control (AWC): This advanced all-wheel-drive system is the cornerstone of the Evo's handling prowess. It actively distributes power and torque to individual wheels, optimizing traction and stability in various driving conditions, from dry pavement to inclement weather. It features driver-selectable modes (Tarmac, Gravel, Snow) that adjust differential behavior for tailored performance.
- Active Stability Control (ASC): Works in conjunction with AWC to prevent skids and maintain vehicle control during sharp maneuvers or sudden loss of traction.
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control.
- Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD): Optimizes brake pressure distribution between the front and rear wheels, improving braking performance and stability.
- Advanced Airbag System: Includes front, side, and curtain airbags to provide comprehensive occupant protection.
- Trims: The 2012 Lancer Evolution was primarily offered in two distinct trims, each catering to slightly different driver preferences:
- GSR: The standard and highly capable trim. It offers a fantastic balance of performance and features, making it the benchmark for the Evo experience.
- MR: The more premium and technologically advanced trim. The MR typically includes enhancements such as a firmer Bilstein suspension, lighter BBS wheels, and the advanced 6-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic® Transmission (TC-SST), offering lightning-fast, automated gear changes that further enhance the performance driving feel.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC): While AWC is standard, the S-AWC system, particularly prominent in the MR trim, adds further sophisticated torque vectoring capabilities for even sharper cornering and enhanced agility.
- Rally-Inspired Interior: The interior, while functional, reflects its performance DNA. Supportive sport seats, a driver-focused cockpit, and performance gauges create an immersive experience.
- Brembo Brakes: High-performance Brembo braking systems are standard, providing exceptional stopping power and fade resistance, crucial for spirited driving.
- Aggressive Styling: The distinctive aggressive styling, with its prominent rear wing, aggressive front fascia, and functional hood vents, clearly communicates the Evo's performance intent.
What to Expect
Owning a 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is typically an experience characterized by exhilaration and engagement. The car rewards skilled drivers with sharp handling, immediate throttle response, and the confidence to tackle corners with remarkable tenacity. Daily commuting can be firm but manageable, with the trade-off being a visceral connection to the road.
- Maintenance: As a high-performance vehicle, the Evo generally requires more diligent and specialized maintenance than a typical sedan. Expect:
- More Frequent Oil Changes: Due to the demands placed on the turbocharged engine, more frequent oil changes with high-quality synthetic oil are recommended.
- Premium Fuel: The turbocharged engine necessitates the use of premium unleaded gasoline to achieve optimal performance and prevent knocking.
- Tire Wear: The performance-oriented tires, essential for grip, tend to wear faster than those on less performance-driven vehicles.
- Specialized Servicing: Certain components, particularly the S-AWC system and the TC-SST transmission (if equipped), may benefit from specialized knowledge and servicing from technicians familiar with performance vehicles.
- Insurance: Insurance premiums for the 2012 Lancer Evolution can be higher than average. This is due to its performance capabilities, higher likelihood of being driven spiritedly, and the cost of specialized parts. Potential buyers should obtain insurance quotes early in the research process.
Potential Considerations
While the 2012 Lancer Evolution offers an exceptional driving experience, prospective buyers should be aware of a few potential considerations:
- Firm Ride Quality: The performance-tuned suspension, while excellent for handling, results in a firmer ride compared to more comfort-oriented sedans. This can be more noticeable on rougher roads.
- Interior Refinement: While the interior is driver-focused, it may lack some of the premium materials and creature comforts found in luxury performance sedans of a similar price point. The focus is squarely on performance.
- Turbo Lag: While significantly reduced in this generation, there can still be a slight hesitation or "lag" before the turbocharger fully spools up, especially at lower RPMs. However, modern driving techniques and the Evo's responsive engine largely mitigate this.
- Rear Seat Space: As a performance compact sedan, the rear seat space and trunk capacity are not as generous as larger sedans, which might be a factor for those requiring significant passenger or cargo room.
- Fuel Economy: Performance comes at a cost, and the fuel economy of the 2012 Lancer Evolution is generally lower than that of average sedans, especially when driven in a spirited manner.
Overall Summary
The 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution remains a legendary performance sedan that offers an unparalleled driving experience for enthusiasts. Its potent turbocharged engine, sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, and razor-sharp handling make it a captivating machine that excels in both spirited driving and challenging conditions. While it demands a certain level of commitment to maintenance and may not cater to those prioritizing plush comfort or maximum practicality, for drivers seeking an adrenaline rush and a direct connection to the road, the 2012 Evo stands as a remarkable testament to motorsport-bred engineering.
