Sport Sedan Shootout

 

1. Introduction
2. BMW 135i Coupe
3. Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution TC-SST
4. Subaru Impreza WRX STi spec R
5. Volkswagen Golf R32 4MOTION
6. She Says
7. Conclusion
8. Specifications

 

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution TC-SST

CarAdvice Rating: (4.5/5.0)

When we first drove the all-new Evo back in August (for full review click here), we were thrilled at just how chuckable the car was. Now we all know that’s not a real word, but if the Evolution is to be described in one word only, then that has to be it. Well, throw in a side serving of sting.

Our test vehicle varied slightly from the original plan, we had three standard manual gearbox competitors and Mitsubishi’s incredible new dual-clutch sequential manual, or TC-SST, which caught us off guard – but fear not, we made do.

Now die-hard sports sedan enthusiasts will tell you that if it doesn’t have three pedals then it isn’t a sports sedan, and to an extent we all agree, but this ‘box is without doubt the next best thing to driving a manual, and in some respects, even better.

For starters, response is lightning quick. Cog swaps are almost instantaneous and as if that’s not good enough, the centre differential settings are variable, with three traction setting (tarmac, gravel, snow) offering supreme grip, even in wet conditions as faced on our test day.

This makes an already brilliant package even better, and the ability to switch off the brain and just trundle around town in automatic mode was a big plus for all four of us. In keeping with our original plan the Evo presented a few slight flaws that lost it valuable points in the eyes of the decision makers.

The ride for one was harsh, and while this sure did make for physics defying handling, our test was also to focus on the car’s overall appeal and not just outright performance, so for this reason we looked more favourably elsewhere.

Also, the interior was a little under dressed for the occasion and although the Evo comes packed with some pretty nice gadgets, layout, decor and overall finish were not quite where they could be, considering the price.

“So what!” we hear you shout, “the Evo is king” – and to at least one of our number that sentiment is very true indeed, but after some serious debate and deliberation, it’s a very close second place for a highly evolved and rightfully revered sports sedan.

CarAdvice Overall Rating:

How does it Drive:
How does it Look:
How does it Go:

 

1. Introduction
2. BMW 135i Coupe
3. Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution TC-SST
4. Subaru Impreza WRX STi spec R
5. Volkswagen Golf R32 4MOTION
6. She Says
7. Conclusion
8. Specifications

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