Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X FQ-400 debuts

While the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X is only available in a limited number of variants here in the UAE and other GCC countries, the UK market is the only one to get as many as three different versions. Beyond the standard FQ-300 and the upgraded FQ-330, the new Evo X flagship model in Britain is the FQ-400, complete with a factory-tuned 403 hp turbocharged engine.

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X FQ-400, the fastest and most extreme version of the Evo X, is powered by a highly-tuned 403 hp 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, with 525 Nm of torque at 3500 rpm. The FQ-400 is able to reach 100 kph from standstill in an estimated 3.8 seconds before reaching an electronically limited 250 kph.

Ensuring all the FQ-400’s power is put to good use is Mitsubishi’s sophisticated Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) four-wheel-drive system. The S-AWC system combines a number of electronic systems, including Active Stability Control and Active Centre Differential, Active Yaw Control and Sport ABS. Depending on the conditions, the driver can select the most suitable set-up for the S-AWC system, three choices – Tarmac, Gravel and Snow – being offered via the wheel-mounted button.

Increasing the FQ-400’s cornering ability even further with a wider track and 30 mm lowered suspension featuring Eibach springs and Bilstein Shock Absorbers. Lightweight 18-inch alloy wheels fitted with Toyo Proxes R1R tyres, a 3-inch diameter high flow stainless steel exhaust system, and a revised braking system with floating sealed discs and high performance pads complete the package.

A heavily-vented bonnet helps heat escape from the FQ-400’s turbocharged engine and a new lightweight composite front bumper features carbon-fibre elements on its leading edges. Additional lighting and High Intensity Discharge (HID) lights mark out the FQ-400’s nose. Composite side skirts, a re-styled rear bumper with a carbon-fibre diffuser, a rear wing incorporating a gurney strip and a roof-mounted ‘Vortex Generator’ all help manage airflow and cooling.

Standard equipment for the range-topping Lancer Evolution X model includes Bluetooth hands-free telephone connection, a CD-tuner with 30 Gig hard drive, DVD satellite navigation, remote central locking, automatic headlamps and auto windscreen wipers.

The fully-warrantied Evo X FQ-400 costs £49,999 in the UK.