It takes an automotive anorak to spot the styling changes distinguishing the VIII from its predecessor. The Recaro-shod interior also receives minor tweaks but the biggest change is the first appearance in an Evo of a six-speed gearbox. Fifth is now significantly shorter and sixth slightly taller than top in the old five-speed device.
It’s bolted to a mildly modified version of the familiar blown 2.0-litre in-line four. Peak power remains 276bhp at 6500rpm but torque is up 9lb ft to 289lb ft at the same 3500rpm thanks to a redesigned turbocharger, bigger intercooler and an exhaust modified to produce less back pressure.
Keeping all this kinetic energy in check is the same four-wheel-drive chassis but with revised Active Centre and rear limited-slip differentials and a new version of Mitsubishi’s Super AYC (active yaw control).
