On paper, it may not have a horsepower edge over the current model, but the newest generation Mitsubishi Evo may perform slighty better in the twisties. Although the IX is an evolutionary tease that must suffice until the revolutionary Evo X is released in 2006, it does feature some tweaks that make it worthy of its own roman numeral. A new variable valve timing system will increase fuel economy and add a few numbers to top speed, while lower rear springs will improve performance of the car's "Super Active Yaw Control" system (also known as "whoa!") and improve rear-end stability. Still, despite the improvements, which will be introduced in the Japanese market first, we're apt to wait until the clock strikes ten, that is, if Mitsubishi can hang on.
Mitsubishi's Lancer Evolution IX to Debut in Japan [Edmunds]
Related:
Road Test: The Debonair Mitsubishi Evo MR [internal]