2005 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

A lot of changes are made to the 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. All of the Evolution models receive an all-wheel-drive system with a front helical limited-slip deferential as well as an electronic active center differential. Additionally, all of the models also receive five extra hp and 13 lb-ft of torque. The Evolution also gets aluminum side bars to help save on weight as well as an extra large cup holder for convenience. The model gets rid of its HID headlamps, now offered as an optional feature. The meter cluster is revised for the ACD display in the cabin as well. The Evolution also loses its intercooler water spray feature.

Some changes are made to the specific trim levels as well. The MR edition has BBS forged alloy wheels, a six-speed manual transmission, and Bilstein shocks. This trim level is also equipped with an aluminum roof for a lower center of gravity. The RS and MR are outfitted with an aluminum roof panel, while the RS alone gets thinner sheet metal in the deck lid for a lighter overall weight.

The 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution was designed to offer drivers a good looking car with plenty of character. With its impressive, assertive front end and grille, as well as the rear with sharp lines and detailing, the Lancer Evolution has a powerful look. Mitsubishi offers several colors including Rally Red, Wicked White, Lightning Yellow, and Electric Blue.

In the cabin, the 2005 Lancer Evolution was designed to offer as much convenience and comfort as possible for the driver and passengers. While it isn’t necessarily the biggest sedan available, the Lancer Evolution does offer a reasonable amount of room in the cabin. Most passengers will fit comfortably. Storage space was also a concern and was met with the addition of a center console with storage space, as well as door pockets and cup holders in the front of the car. Depending on the trim level, the Lancer Evolution has cloth seats, featuring bucket seats in the front of the sedan. Power accessories such as windows and locks are standard as well. In the highest trim level, the MR edition, the front seats are sport bucket seats in the cloth material and offer the same amenities as the lower trim levels. This trim level features a bit more luxury with a leather-wrapped shift knob, leather steering wheel, and six-speaker single CD player and stereo audio system.

With the Lancer Evolution, Mitsubishi was hoping to create a compact sedan capable of competing with the American and other foreign cars on the market. For the most part, it succeeded with a car that offered plenty of power and is considered to be one of the best handling sedans available at any price. In test drives, the Lancer proved itself to be a reliable, comfortable sedan with impressive performance and handling. Especially for a compact sedan, the 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is a force to be reckoned with. For drivers that want a bit more fun and excitement, the industry’s experts suggest the MR Edition trim level, though any model will get the job done.

Safety is an important selling point for any sedan, and Mitsubishi made it a point to supply the 2005 Lancer Evolution with as many safety features as possible. This sedan is equipped with an adjustable head rest in the front and rear of the cabin as well as electronic brake force distribution, child seat anchors, and rear door child safety locks. Front seatbelt pre tensioners are available on the upper trim levels only. The MR edition offers anti-lock brakes as opposed to the lower trim levels. Unfortunately, airbags don’t appear on the list of safety features for this model.

• Incredibly sharp steering
• Great handling for any class sedan
• Well designed all-wheel-drive system
• Plenty of turbocharged power
• RS model offers lots of performance for the money

• Uncomfortable highway ride
• Sparse interior
• No side airbags
• Limited luxury amenities

• Toyota Corolla
• Chevrolet Cavalier
• BMW 3-Series
• Ford Focus
• Mazda MAZDA3