Swearingen: No Evos Planned After X, GSR 5-Speed Coming Summer 2015
Bad news: Mitsubishi’s storied Lancer Evolution will stop at 10 after the 2015 model year. Good news: It will go out with a bang.
Jalopnik recently held an AMA with Mitsubishi Motors USA executive vice president Don Swearingen. There, one of the commentariat asked if there would be an Evo XI. His response:
There are currently no plans for an Evo XI.
We do plan on launching a special edition in June/July of next year as a going away edition. It’s a GSR 5-speed. More horsepower, some suspension tuning, and some bits pieces that are still being finalized. Around 2,000 units will be available.
Other notable statements from the AMA: Mitsubishi wants to return to the D-segment with a replacement for the Galant; is considering more electrification of its lineup, including a PHEV; says no Delicas will be sent to the United States anytime soon; and will be bringing a concept to the 2015 Chicago Auto Show heralding what the new Montero could look like.
Seattle-based writer, blogger, and photographer for many a publication. Born in Louisville. Raised in Kansas. Where I lay my head is home.
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As a huge Mitsu fan this is really disappointing. I was under the impression that the EVO was one of - if not the - best selling model they have, so to me it doesn't make sense to axe it. The EVO also happens to be their best and most competent product.I also think the EVO is a better car than the STI. I'm (obviously) not very interested in what they are planning to bring here soon, but my hope is that they can even survive here period. Hopefully if they continue to stay alive in the US then eventually they will create something special to replace the EVO. Until then, at least I have my 3000GT VR-4 to remind me of Mitsu's brighter days.
5-Speed - COMING next summer? What else will it have - a four-barrel carburetor and curb feelers? Buh-bye.
Anyone remember how Mitsubishi took to the internet looking for evidence of EVOs participating in autocrosses and track days so they could deny warranty claims? I'm guessing owners effected by the program looked elsewhere for their next cars.
Swearingen? Isn't he the foul mouthed brothel keeper from Deadwood? Not sure how much credence I would put in his pronouncements.