The Evolution Begins

The Mitsubishi Lancer name dates back to 1973, while the first Lancer Evolution was introduced in 1992. Developed from the Lancer sedan, the Evolution was created with motorsport firmly in mind, combining four-wheel drive, turbocharged power and a competition-focused chassis.

The early Evolution models were developed to meet homologation requirements for Group A rallying, allowing Mitsubishi to compete with a production-based car in the World Rally Championship.

Built for Rallying

Although the Evolution shared its basic platform with the Lancer, Mitsubishi heavily modified the car for performance. The Evolution featured a turbocharged engine, four-wheel drive and extensive changes to the suspension, brakes, bodywork and drivetrain.

The result was a compact performance car that could be developed for both road and rally use, helping Mitsubishi establish the Lancer Evolution as one of the most successful Japanese rally cars of its era.

The Tommi Mäkinen Edition

In 1999, Mitsubishi introduced a special version of the Evolution VI to celebrate Finnish driver Tommi Mäkinen's four consecutive World Rally Championship Drivers' titles from 1996 to 1999.

Known as the Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition, or T.M.E., the car featured a number of performance and styling changes inspired by Mitsubishi's successful rally programme.

A Special Edition

The Tommi Mäkinen Edition was available in several colours, including red, black, blue, white and silver. It featured a distinctive interior with Tommi Mäkinen branding, 17-inch Enkei wheels and a revised aerodynamic package.

Performance improvements included revised suspension settings, steering changes and other modifications designed to give the road car a more focused character.

A Rally Legend

The Tommi Mäkinen Edition is regarded as one of the most desirable versions of the Lancer Evolution. Its connection to Mitsubishi's dominant WRC period and the achievements of Tommi Mäkinen have made it particularly significant among Evolution enthusiasts and collectors.

The combination of rally heritage, distinctive styling and performance makes the Evolution VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition one of the most memorable cars in Mitsubishi's performance history.