Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI

The Evolution series had come in leaps and bounds. With success from various rallies mainly accredited to Tommi Makinen, the Evo VI was being watched by the world to see what new tweaks had arrived this time around.

The Evolution VI gave more than what was bargained for. This monster of a machine was once again overhauled in every possible area (within regulations) to give as much punch as possible. Starting from the exterior, onlookers would notice the obvious features such as those huge fog lights being made smaller and moved to the corners to improve drag. Other body improvements were a better intake pipe as well as a maximized new rear wing to fit with regulations. The Evo VI was pushed to the limits to improve anything possible from those major changes even to small things like the license plate being moved to maximize air intake.

Those accustomed to the usual generation changed will know that Mitsubishi changed more than just its appearance. Under the hood new pistons were once more fitted, a new and larger intercooler plus oil cooler were also fitted.

Handling was in turn improved by increasing the chassis stiffness by vigorous spot wields. The new changes were causing so much attention that even the US market was catching on and ordering imports to their native soil.

It’s true that the Mitsubishi Evolution was so popular that to commiserate their rally success, Mitsubishi released a special edition model, the TME. TME stood for the Tommi Makinen Edition, also known as the Evo 6.5. The TME was distinctive in its appearance with a lower ride height, 17” ENKEI white wheels and a totally different bumper. Inside the Evo, Mitsubishi used signature black and red Recaro seats with the TM logo. The TME also had a special titanium turbine under the bonnet to produce greater torque than the other standard models.

The TME wasn’t the only special edition available. Ralliart brought out the RS2, which was a compromise of the GSR and the RS. Not bound by rally regulations, Ralliart heavily tuned these models to 330 horse power and as if that wasn’t enough, they made some minor changes to make the overall weight lighter. This was a development in itself, as the public were being made fully aware that the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution was being modified by major companies and opened the floodgates to enthusiasts all around.