Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution: generations and import guide
The Lancer Evolution is Mitsubishi's turbocharged, all-wheel-drive rally special. US buyers import the early JDM generations, because the first Evos never reached the US market.
What the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is
| Chassis | Years | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Evolution I | 1992–1993 | Chassis CD9A and CE9A. The start of the line. |
| Evolution II | 1994 | A light update over the Evo I. |
| Evolution III | 1995 | Revised aero and turbo. |
| Evolution IV | 1996–1997 | Chassis CN9A. New platform and the debut of Active Yaw Control. |
| Evolution V | 1998 | Wider track and more aggressive bodywork. |
| Evolution VI | 1999–2000 | Chassis CP9A, including the Tommi Mäkinen Edition. |
| Evolution VII | 2001–2003 | Chassis CT9A. The first Evo sold in the US came later, as the VIII. |
| Evolution VIII | 2003–2005 | Sold in the US, along with the IX that followed. |
| Evolution IX | 2005–2007 | The last of the CT9A-based cars. |
| Evolution X | 2007–2016 | Chassis CZ4A. A new engine and dual-clutch gearbox. |
Is the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution legal to import to the US?
Evos I through VI, built from 1992 to 2000, are all more than 25 years old and qualify now, and they meet the 21-year EPA threshold, which applies only to vehicles in their original configuration, not modified from the manufacturer's original design. Evo VII cars qualify individually from 2026, and VIII and IX cars in the years after.
Mitsubishi sold an Evo VIII and IX in the US, so those left-hand-drive cars are already road-legal here. The 25-year route is for the JDM cars.
Import eligibility under the 25-year rule is set by the date of manufacture, so always check the chassis plate. The 25-year import rule explains how the exemption works and how to confirm it. The EPA age exemption applies only to vehicles in their original configuration, not modified from the manufacturer's original design; confirm current requirements with the EPA's official vehicle-import guidance.
What it costs to land a Lancer Evolution
Early Evos are rare and condition-sensitive, and limited editions such as the Tommi Mäkinen cars carry a premium.
Budget for the exporter fee and Japanese inland transport, ocean freight, marine insurance, US duty and customs charges, a bond and broker, and state taxes and registration. Ask for a written landed cost.
Check service history carefully. These are high-strung turbo cars, and parts for early generations can be hard to find.
Ready to look at real cars? Browse Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution listings at JDMBUYSELL, a marketplace that specialises in Japanese domestic market vehicles. Use the guide above to work out what you want and what it will take to land it, then compare actual listings.
Keep reading
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution: common questions
Which Lancer Evolutions can I import to the US?
Evos I through VI qualify now under the 25-year rule. Evo VII and later qualify individually as each build turns 25 years old, starting in 2026.
Was the Lancer Evolution sold in the US?
Mitsubishi sold the Evo VIII and IX in the US. The earlier JDM generations were not sold here and come in under the 25-year rule.
How much does it cost to import a Lancer Evolution?
It depends on the generation, condition and rarity, plus shipping, duty and state registration. Ask for a line-by-line landed-cost quote.
General information only — not legal, customs or tax advice. Rules can change. Confirm current requirements with US Customs and Border Protection, NHTSA, the EPA, and your state motor vehicle agency before importing.