The fastest Lancer ever produced is the Evolution IX FQ-360, a limited-edition model built for the UK market with about 360 PS, capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in under four seconds. In broader terms, "fastest" can refer to straight-line speed (0–60 mph) or top speed, and different Evo variants maximize different aspects of speed depending on market and tuning.
Fastest Lancer models in the lineup
Below is a look at the main contenders, noting that speeds vary by market, tuning, and year. The list compares production or limited-production Lancers that are commonly cited as the quickest in official or widely published tests.
- Lancer Evolution IX FQ-360 — A UK-market limited edition with about 360 PS. It is widely regarded as the fastest Lancer in production form, delivering roughly 0–60 mph in around 3.9 seconds and a top speed near 155 mph (250 km/h).
- Lancer Evolution X MR — The top-spec Evolution X, typically around 290–305 PS depending on the edition, with 0–60 mph in roughly 4.5–4.7 seconds and a top speed around 155–161 mph (250–260 km/h).
- Lancer Evolution IX GSR/RS variants — Earlier high-performance trims offering around 270–286 PS; 0–60 mph typically around 5.0–5.5 seconds, top speeds around 240–255 km/h.
In summary, the FQ-360 stands out as the fastest Lancer in production-like form, followed by the Evolution X MR as the fastest of the later-generation cars, with earlier Evos behind them on straight-line speed.
What counts as fastest?
Speed can be measured in multiple ways. 0–60 mph times describe acceleration from a standstill, while top speed measures the limit the car can reach under ideal conditions. The fastest car for a given buyer may depend on whether they value quick launches or high top-end velocity, plus how the car is tuned, tire choice, weight, and market-specific specifications.
Summary
For the Mitsubishi Lancer, the title of fastest goes to the Evolution IX FQ-360, a rare UK-limited edition with 360 PS that can sprint to 60 mph in under four seconds. The Evolution X MR is the next-fastest in the lineup, while earlier Evos like the IX GSR/RS offer strong performance but slower in straight-line speed. Overall, the Lancer’s performance lore centers on the Evo line, with the most extreme speed coming from limited-edition Evolution IX FQ-360 models.
Is Evo 9 better than EVO 8?
Reliability Verdict: The Evo 8 is the lower-maintenance choice with its simpler design and stronger 5-speed transmission. The Evo 9 offers better performance but demands more attention to MIVEC, AYC, and transmission upkeep.
What's the fastest Mitsubishi Lancer?
Lancer Evolution X FQ440
While the automaker has moved away from fast cars lately, these are the top 10 fastest Mitsubishi cars in history: Lancer Evolution X FQ440: 3.6 seconds — The racing-inspired Lancer had a remarkable 440 hp and 412 lb-ft of torque, and it was able to outrun a Mercedes-Benz and BMW.
Is the Evo or STI faster?
The Evo averages an astonishing 4.6 seconds from 0 to 60 mph. It might only beat the Subaru STI to that mark because the Evo can get there, just barely, in second gear, although it also holds a slight advantage through the quarter-mile, too. That's despite ceding 10 horsepower and 192 pounds of curb weight to the STI.
Which Evo did Jackie Chan drive?
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX
Jackie Chan's Evo 9 is a special edition Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX that was produced in 1995. The car was made to celebrate Chan's partnership with Mitsubishi and featured his signature on the detailing.