2005 Mitsubishi Concept-X

The 2005 Mitsubishi Concept-X served as a bold and technologically rich preview of the next-generation Lancer Evolution. With a design that retained the aggressive, purpose-built image associated with the Evolution lineage, Concept-X reimagined the rally-bred icon with modern styling and advanced performance technology. The vehicle's exterior was dominated by a large jet-fighter-inspired grille and an assertive, wide stance, signaling both aerodynamic efficiency and serious cooling capacity. The Mitsubishi three-diamond emblem sat prominently at the edge of the sculpted hood, reinforcing brand identity while emphasizing performance intent.

The interior of the Concept-X continued the theme of function-led design. A stark black color palette was paired with metallic silver accents to simulate the presence of machined aluminum, creating a cockpit-like atmosphere. Mitsubishi’s designers focused on a driver-centric layout with intuitive controls and paddle shifters mounted on the steering column, promoting precision and control without distraction. The goal was to keep the driver immersed in the act of driving, amplifying the sense of connection with the machine.

Under the hood, the Concept-X featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter DOHC MIVEC engine constructed with an aluminum block for weight reduction. Designed to deliver strong, flat torque across the rev range, the powertrain was paired with a clutchless 6-speed auto-manual transmission. This setup allowed for lightning-quick gear changes via paddle shifters, offering the involvement of a manual with the ease and speed of an automated gearbox. This drivetrain layout provided the framework for exhilarating, driver-focused performance.

Chassis design was another area of innovation. The car’s structure employed a rigid ring-frame design, with widespread use of aluminum in panels such as the roof, hood, doors, and trunk lid to reduce overall weight and improve the vehicle’s center of gravity. This design not only enhanced agility but also improved structural rigidity, crucial for precise handling and crash safety. The suspension setup used MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link arrangement at the rear, working in tandem with Mitsubishi’s Roll Control Suspension to deliver superior grip and stability.

Central to Concept-X’s performance credentials was its debut of the Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) system, a holistic evolution of Mitsubishi’s well-proven 4WD and dynamic control technology. Building upon core components like Active Center Differential (ACD) and Super Active Yaw Control (AYC), the new S-AWC system incorporated Active Brake Control, Roll Control Suspension, and an Active Steering System. This fully integrated setup enabled unprecedented control over vehicle dynamics, seamlessly blending traction, balance, and cornering agility across various surfaces and driving conditions.

Adding to the technical sophistication was an advanced on-board multimedia system. A high-definition central display provided real-time data on vehicle performance and S-AWC status, while also serving as the interface for navigation and entertainment functions. Rear passengers could access their own LCD displays to view the same performance data and enjoy media playback, making the car not only a performance machine but also a high-tech lounge on wheels.

The Mitsubishi Concept-X was more than just a styling exercise—it was a complete engineering manifesto for the future of the Evolution series. It encapsulated Mitsubishi’s commitment to blending cutting-edge vehicle dynamics with aggressive styling and digital innovation. Concept-X set the stage for the production Lancer Evolution X, which would follow soon after, bringing many of its concepts and technologies into reality.