Automotive media and car enthusiasts the world over have long considered the Lancer Evolution to be one of the best – if not the greatest – 4-door sports sedan of all time. Landing at dealer showrooms in Fall of 2011, the motoring masses will be able to welcome a new member to Mitsubishi Motor’s awe-inspiring family.

Slotting between the Lancer Evolution GSR and the top-flight MR Touring models is the exciting all-new limited edition 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution SE – the SE standing for “Special Edition,” which borrows many of the best features from both models to create what may be the ultimate Evolution.

Key performance components carried over from the top-of-the-line MR edition to the SE version include the ultra-high performance suspension package that employs Eibach springs and Bilstein shock absorbers, two-piece Brembo front brake rotors with remarkable stopping power and Mitsubishi’s lightning-fast Twin Clutch-Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST) that allows for split-second gear shifts via either steering wheel paddle shifters or the shift lever without a clutch pedal.

Gone are the small (GSR) and large (MR) wings atop the rear deck lid; like the MR touring model, the new Evo SE makes use of a small, less conspicuous lip spoiler. Other highlights include brightly illuminating HID headlights and a choice of four colors – Graphite Gray, Wicked White, Phantom Black and Octane Blue.

Heated cloth RECARO seats and exclusive “SE” badging round out the Lancer Evolution SE’s unique packaging, one that provides a very high degree of speed and agility in a visually more discreet and affordable package.

While remaining true to the core values that have made the Lancer Evolution synonymous with thrilling performance, the next-generation 2011 model offers new premium features and user technology options for a more refined driving experience.

The 2011 Lancer Evolution showcases the latest performance and handling technology, including an all-aluminum 291-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged and intercooled engine and the Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) dynamic handling system. S-AWC regulates the drive torque at each wheel by controlling a network of advanced dynamic handling technologies including Active Center Differential (ACD) 4-wheel-drive, Active Yaw Control (AYC) rear differential, Active Stability Control (ASC) and sport ABS brakes. A helical gear-type limited-slip front differential is used.

The 4B11 DOHC in line 4-cylinder engine, based on a reinforced cast-aluminum cylinder block, employs a direct-acting valvetrain for reduced weight and MIVEC variable valve timing is used on both the intake and exhaust camshafts. The rear-located (firewall side) stainless steel exhaust manifold helps improve overall weight distribution.

A shark-nosed front end inspired by jet fighter air intakes, a distinct wedge-like profile, and crisp and taut lines highlight the Lancer Evolution’s signature face and profile. New for 2011 are updated larger side air dams, tail lamps with black extensions and a short pole 200 mm antenna. Its unique front end, aggressively sloping hood with integral air scoop and engine heat outlets, boxed fenders and 18-inch wheels impart the Lancer Evolution with the look of the street-wise sports machine.

The Lancer Evolution features its own distinct suspension system, including inverted struts in front and a rear multi-link configuration, with numerous forged aluminum components to help reduce unsprung weight. The 18 x 8.5-inch wheels (Enkei cast-alloy on the GSR and BBS forged-alloy on the MR) are shod with large (245/40R18) tarmac-grabbing Yokohama ADVAN asymmetrical performance tires at all four corners.

Adding a dash of even more comfort and civility, the 2011 Lancer Evolution features many new revisions for improved everyday driving. A new high-contrast multi-color LCD instrument meter enhances visibility while a leather-clad parking brake lever with chrome release button adds a premium touch. The MR model receives an additional premium touch – Phantom Black interior accents.

Reflecting the tastes of the ever-broadening Evolution customer base, a hands-free Bluetooth cell phone interface system is now standard as well as an MP3 auxiliary input jack for all models, while available User technologies include a Rockford Fosgate audio and navigation system with music server.

Standard safety features include an advanced dual front air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with occupant sensors, standard front seat-mounted side-impact air bags and side curtain air bags, plus a driver’s knee airbag.

Three other Lancer Evolution models will be offered in the U.S. for 2011: the GSR with a five speed manual transmission; the Lancer Evolution MR that is equipped with a 6-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST) – an automated manual transmission with magnesium steering wheel shifter paddles and a console shifter – Bilstein shock absorbers and Eibach springs, two-piece Brembo front brake rotors, BBS forged-alloy wheels and HID headlamps; and the MR Touring model, more comfortably equipped for everyday use with a power glass sunroof, leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, rear lip spoiler, insulated front windshield glass and improved sound insulation.

Key Specifications

Wheelbase: 104.3 in.
Length: 177.0 in.
Height: 58.3 in.
Width: 71.3 in.
Engine: DOHC MIVEC 2.0-liter inline 4; intercooled/turbocharged
Horsepower: 291 @ 6,500 rpm
Torque: 300 lb.-ft. (est.) @ 4,400 rpm
Transmission: GSR: 5-speed manual
SE & MR: 6-speed TC-SST with magnesium steering wheel paddle shifters
Dynamics: Super-All Wheel Control with Active Center Differential (ACD) 4-wheel drive, Active Yaw Control (AYC) rear differential, Active Stability Control (ASC) and Sports ABS
Wheels: GSR & SE: 18 x 8.5 Enkei cast alloy
MR: 18 x 8.5 BBS forged alloy
Tires: 245/40R18 Yokohama ADVAN asymmetrical performance tires

Major Standard Features

-140-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with digital signal processing, MP3 playback capability and six speakers
-Anti-theft engine immobilizer and security alarm
-Automatic climate control system
-Center floor console box with armrest
-Color-keyed outer door handles and side view mirrors
-Cruise control
-Dual-stage front air bag SRS with front passenger occupant sensors, curtain side air bags, driver’s knee air bag, and front seat mounted side-impact air bags
-Power door locks
-Fog lights
-Power windows with driver’s one-touch up/down
-Rear seat heater floor ducts
-Rear spoiler
-Recaro bucket seats (front)
-Brembo braking system
-Remote keyless entry system
-Tilt-adjustable steering column
-Hands-free Bluetooth™ cell phone system
-High-contrast multi-color LCD instrument display
-Leather parking brake lever with chrome release button
-Leather-wrapped steering wheel with cruise control and audio control switches
SE adds over GSR:

-Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST)
-Two-piece Brembo front brake rotors
-Xenon HID headlamps
-SE badging
-Bilstein shock absorbers and Eibach springs
-Rear lip spoiler (replaces low-profile rear wing)
-Heated Recaro bucket seats (front)
MR adds over GSR:

-Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST) with magnesium steering wheel paddle shifters
-BBS forged alloy wheels
-Bilstein shock absorbers and Eibach springs
-Two-piece Brembo front brake rotors
-Xenon HID headlamps
-FAST-key
-Leather/suede seating surfaces
-Rockford Fosgate 710W max premium audio system
-SIRIUS satellite radio with 3-mo subscription
-Center console storage with lid
-Large type rear wing

GSR Sight, Sound and Spoiler Package adds: HID headlamps, FAST-Key with panic alarm, large rear spoiler and the Rockford-Fosgate 710-watt (max.) Premium Sound System with 10-in. subwoofer, plus a 6-disc in-dash CD changer with MP3 capability, and SIRIUS Satellite Radio and a 3-month service subscription.

MR Touring Package adds: Leather seating surfaces, heated front seats and side mirrors, rear lip spoiler (replaces large rear spoiler), automatic on/off headlights, rain sensing wipers, insulated front windshield glass and improved sound insulation.