Mitsubishi To Launch "Makinen Lancer"

Mitsubishi Motors are launching a special edition of the Lancer Evolution. in recognition of the performance of ace rally driver Tommi Makinen in winning four consecutive World Rally Driver's Championship titles.

Known as the Lancer Evolution Tommi Makinen Edition, the new road model has been modified from the current Evolution VI with new front grille and bumper, 17 inch alloy wheels and 225/45ZR17 tyres, a special tarmac specification suspension, front suspension strut tower bar and muffler cutter.

Inside there's new seat fabric, Momo leather steering wheel and gear shift knob for the five speed transmission.

Tommi Makinen is delighted with the new model. "To have a car named after yourself - that's something else.

"Over the years I have made a number of suggestions for the Lancer Evolution series, stressing the importance of making it easy to control and fun to drive and ride in, as well as giving high levels of performance.

"It's a beautiful balance between all performance parameters and has provided me with the perfect car to rewrite the World Rally Championship record books."

The Tommi Makinen Edition Lancer, with its two litre 205 kW engine, will be available in New Zealand from March.

"The Lancer Evolution continues to be the most popular choice among rally competitors in New Zealand," Mitsubishi Motors New Zealand's marketing director Mike Alexander said.

"Like all other imports, the price has been affected quite significantly by the devaluation of the dollar, but this car is an incredible package. The Lancer Evolution has proved its strength and reliability in winning rally championships around the world and I believe this Tommi Makinen edition could well become a collectors item in the years ahead."

ENDS....

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