In this Test Drive, we take a look at two very different vehicles from the same manufacturer — Mitsubishi.

First up is Mitsubishi’s foray into the realm of fully electric, the Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle, or as it is better known, the i-MiEV. This little electric dynamo boasts up to a 155km drive on a full charge, combines good handling with a zippy engine (66hp/145 LB-FT of torque and a top speed of 130km/h), and the added benefit of having a clean conscience as you drive around. I’ll admit, this car inspires an “I’m better than you because I care about the environment” feeling which is only intensified when people get slack jawed when you tell them, “Yes, this is an E-vehicle, not a golf cart.”

The i-MiEV has three distinct drive modes: the regular drive mode (D) which drains the most energy but gives the most pep during the drive (you can hear all 66 of its horses neighing); the energy saving Eco-Mode (ECO) which is recommended when a driver is going down a gentle hill or has achieved cruising speed on the highway; and the Regenerative Brake Mode (B) which fully engages the i-MiEV’s ingenious method of harnessing its own kinetic energy to recharge the batteries.  I found the D-mode to have more than enough punch for getting around the city. In fact, the D-mode’s acceleration felt no different compared to the average combustion engine vehicle, which is particularly good news for those that may want to jump on the E-wagon but doubted the driving experience.

Although the B-mode is the most efficient way of driving around the city (the i-MiEV thrives on the stop-and-go) I found it decelerated noticably faster than the other modes. Once you let your foot off of the accelerator (there is no “gas pedal”), the regenerative brake mode kicks in … hard. I had to get used to shifting in the different modes but eventually it became second nature. Still, being prepared for this difference will help maintain a positive driving experience.

A few highlights to note about the i-MiEV: you can charge your vehicle from any standard household outlet (a 120V outlet takes 22hrs from 0 – 100% charge), a 240V outlet (think your washer and dryer) speeds up your full charge to seven hours, or tap into a local quick-charge station (In Toronto you can find them at the Sheraton Hotel downtown or at the Brickworks).  The i-MiEV is listed as a compact vehicle, but due to its 88 cell lithium-ion batteries, it weighs more, improving its safety and handling. All in all, the Mitsubishi i-MiEV is a positive step forward for the green sector within the automotive industry, a zippy little car that may just change the way we drive.

The other half of this tale is the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (EVO), better known as the vehicle most likely to let your inner douchebag come out and play. Boasting 291 hp and 300lb-ft of torque, a 6-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission, and three different driving modes (normal, sport, and super-sport), the EVO can take even the most mild-mannered defensive driver out there and transform him into speed junkie.

The driving experience with the EVO is simply amazing. The tight suspension, Super-All Wheel Control, and Sport bucket seats all contribute to a great experience. This is the type of vehicle that makes you want to drive everywhere, even when a short walk would suffice. Its ability to accelerate and handle high speeds makes you feel like you have been picked first for everything all your life … the ride is that damn good.

The only thing that takes away from the driving experience is feeling every little bump on the road. This is a direct result of the tight suspension that gives the EVO it’s amazing handling. The Mitsubishi team giveth and taketh all in the same feature. Another drawback is the lack of trunk space. Admittedly this isn’t a family vehicle, but I was surprised that one decent-sized duffle bag filled it up. With that being said, if you want a lot of space, go buy a mini van. If you want a vehicle that will make you stand two inches taller, feel cooler, and let your inner Mr. Hyde come out and play, this is the vehicle for you.

The Lancer EVO MR starts at $51,798 and the fully loaded i-MiEV is $35, 998 (subsidies for electric cars range from $5,000 to $8,231 off the sticker price).