Just like software companies, Mitsubishi continuously upgrading their halo car, the Lancer Evolution. Last year’s EVO VIII MR was quite possibly the performance car bargain of this brief millennium. Now, barely a year into its production, Mitsubishi is upgrading it again. Here comes the Lancer Evolution IX.

There are not too many differences from the look of the car. The front end looks cleaner, without the menacing look of the VIII. There are minor upgrades to the interior, but it is still econo car cheap. Momo steering wheel and Recaro racing seats still feel wonderful. All the controls are still at where they should be.

The big story lies in the engine bay. Mitsubishi integrated its MIVEC technology into EVO’s venerable 2-liter 4G63 4-cylinder engine. Output increased slightly to 286 HP and 289 lb-ft. MIVEC technology smoothed out the output of this turbo engine. The slight turbo lag below 3500 rpm of the previous generation is almost completely gone. There is no longer the worry of dropping off the turbo boost zone when entering a corner.

Comparing to EVO VIII, the IX is easier to live with in congested traffic. The output from the un-boosted engine felt almost like a 2.4-liter car. Put into the 2nd gear, one could gently crawl along bumper to bumper traffic all day long. On the track, by the addition of MIVEC, the IX felt much stronger from 3500 rpm to 5000 rpm. The acceleration from 100 mph to 140 mph is unbelievable. The almost linear output also helped out on the corners. One can control the car more delicately inside the corners. EVO IX still maintained the nimble and playful character of EVO family.

Is this a great car? Is this a great sport car? Is this the best EVO ever? The answer is a unanimous "Yes" to all those questions. Until Mitsubishi launch the EVO X in 2 years.