A new 260 bhp Lancer Evo 8 is now on sale in the UK. At £23,999 the Evolution VIII 260 is intended to compete directly with the Impreza STi and extends the Evo bloodline downwards for the first time (previously the only alternative specifications were upgrades of the base model).

Largely based on the old base model, the VIII 260 features a de-tuned version of that car's 276 bhp four cylinder turbo unit, with the 260 indicating the new model's output – a theme continued now throughout the range with the FQ-300, 320 and 340. As well as 15 bhp, the 260 gives up the six-speed gearbox, in favour of the previous generation's 5-speeder. Other changes extend to a smaller rear spoiler, the deletion of the rear wash wipe and some interior tweaks such as wider seats and a 6 CD stereo. Improvements to the tweaked Evo 8 include upgraded active yaw control (the clever system than contributes to the Evo's surreal cornering abilities) and revisions to the engine, suspension and aerodynamics with a stiffer shell and some weight reduction.

Performance is down markedly from the higher-powered Evos with 0-62 mph now taking 6.1 seconds (Impreza STi: 5.3 secs) and a 152 mph maximum, which should still be sufficient for most. The benefit of this reduction in power is improved economy and drivability. The VIII 260 promises to be more accessible, less intimidating and (whisper it) a bit softer than the big horsepower Evo 8s whilst still maintaining 95% of their outright capabilities. Mitsubishi hope to capitalise on this by pitching the Evo into battle at a price that brings it face to face with its nemesis, the Impreza, whilst also taking it close to the premium hot hatch market sector.

For the first time the Evo is homologated for sales Europe wide, which can only be a good thing for parts prices etc. as more models are sold. Mitsubishi aim to sell 2,000 Evos in the UK alone. The Car Enthusiast will be driving one shortly to find out whether less is more where the Evo 8 is concerned.

Dave Jenkins - 20 Apr 2004