2005 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII MR Road Test

Say what? You heard it right. To compensate for the inside wheels spinning slower than the outside wheels during a tight

Steering is wonderfully weighted, with direct, positive feedback at all speeds. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press)

turn, the center diff disengages momentarily to allow less intrusion by the four-wheel drive system and therefore, greater traction. If you notice it happening then you're probably driving too slowly or know the car so well that such nuances become perceptible, but I couldn't tell when it engaged or disengaged. All I could tell was that it worked extremely well.

The EVO VIII MR's rack-and-pinion steering response is lightning-quick as well, due to its 2.1 turns lock to lock. Unfortunately this makes for a rather

The close ration 6-speed transmission kept the engine at optimal revs at all times. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press)

wide 38.7 foot turning radius, but high-speed stability is enhanced considerably which is an attribute that's more of what an EVO is all about. The steering is also wonderfully weighted, with direct, positive feedback at all speeds. The wheel itself is a joy to behold as well, fitting my palms and digits perfectly.

The new close ratio 6-speed shifter also fit my palm perfectly. The benefit of the added cog was made most apparent when running the base EVO around the same track. While I liked the feel of the 5-speed box a lot, the ability of the 6-speed transmission to keep the engine at optimal revs at all times made a giant difference while accelerating from all speeds.