would be better appreciated. Among all the twin-clutch transmissions I've sampled, the Mitsubishi certainly ranks among the best and most flexible currently available.

"Super All-Wheel Control" is how Mitsubishi describes its rally-inspired all-wheel-drive system. It combines a suite of technologies that work in harmony, allowing you to push the Evolution to its limits. This includes "Active Yaw Control" to distribute engine torque between the left and right rear wheels as the "Active Center Differential" distributes engine torque between the front and rear axles. "Active Stability Control" provides increased grip when cornering, while "Sport ABS" with "Electronic Brakeforce Distribution" improves brake feel during hard braking.

I put the system to the test on a drive up to Big Bear Lake in the mountains east of Los Angeles in search of more marginal conditions. While encountering some wet roads, my quest for some lingering spring snow to challenge the system was fruitless.

On the winding route down the mountain from Big Bear Lake on California 38, I was able to take advantage of almost traffic-free conditions to sample its capabilities.