Mitsubishi Evo X
South Africans have never had the same opportunity as other countries to go out and buy a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution model as easily as they have been able to buy Subaru’s equivalent Impreza WRX and STI models. However, that isn’t to say that we’ve been totally deprived; we did receive a limited number of the VIII, IX and X models, locally. The big problem with the most recent model, the X or “10” (if you’re not familiar with Roman numerals), was that they were extremely high-priced, somewhere in the region of R700 000 new, a few years back. Now, though, you can have these turbocharged, double-clutch gearbox-equipped monsters for less than half that price.
The checks
- Ensure that the car is rattle-free as these models are known to produce irksome clatters in the cabin;
- The fuel pump relays are known to give trouble, so simply have this item replaced with an aftermarket item, upon purchase;
- Luckily, we only got the double-clutch automatic models and therefore don’t need to worry about the clutch master cylinder issues on the manual model;
- There have been reports of failed MAF sensors, which can cause fuelling problems;
- Owners have reported that the quality of the paint job is not up to scratch - literally;
- There are also reports of the cars wearing-out tyres at around 15 000km, so ensure the car you buy has fresh rubber.
Expect to pay between R299 000 to R450 000.
See car on our website here
