Built on the CT9A chassis from 2001 to 2007, this generation moved the Evolution further from its rally-homologation roots toward a genuinely refined performance sedan, adding Active Yaw Control and, on the Evo IX, MIVEC variable valve timing. It's also young enough that eligibility varies significantly by country — read this section carefully before you assume you have to wait.
Overview
Evo VII (2001–03) introduced Active Yaw Control for genuinely improved handling balance; Evo VIII (2003–05) was the first sold new in the US market and added a taller final drive and revised aero; Evo IX (2005–07) brought MIVEC to the 4G63T for a broader, stronger power band. All three retained the AWD architecture and cast-iron turbo four the Evolution built its name on, refined into the most complete version of the pre-CZ4A formula.
All-Wheel-Drive Comfort Trim
Full interior and standard equipment — the more livable everyday version of the CT9A Evo.
Lightweight & Factory-Tuned Specials
RS strips weight for motorsport use; MR (Mitsubishi Racing) editions add Bilstein/Eibach suspension and other factory upgrades — the trims collectors specifically seek out.
Auction Pricing
GSR and RS models across Evo VII–IX typically span roughly ¥1,800,000 to ¥5,000,000+ at Japanese auction, with MR editions and low-mileage, unmodified cars commanding the strongest premiums as the range moves into genuine collector territory. Evo VIII MR and Evo IX cars tend to sit at the top of that range given their more advanced factory specification.
What to Check
Same fundamentals as earlier Evolutions — turbo, clutch and drivetrain condition, and an honest look at modification and accident history. On MR editions specifically, verify the factory suspension and equipment are original rather than a standard GSR/RS dressed up to match; we check chassis and option codes as part of every inspection.
Import Eligibility
This is the important part: because Evo VII–IX production runs to 2007, most of this range hasn't reached the age-based 25-year threshold yet. But that doesn't mean you have to wait everywhere.
SEVS-Eligible Now
Evo VII, VIII and IX are listed on the SEVS register, meaning eligible builds can be imported now regardless of age — no need to wait for the 25-year rule. We'll confirm your exact build against the current register.
Mostly Not Yet
No SEVS-style pathway in the US — only cars built before around August 2001 currently clear the federal 25-year exemption. The rest of the range clears progressively through 2027–2032. See our Import page.
MOT Only
No age-based import ban and every Evo IX is now past the 10-year IVA threshold — a standard MOT is all that's needed, available now regardless of build date.
FAQ
Can I really import an Evo IX to Australia today?
In most cases yes, via the SEVS Performance Criterion register rather than waiting on the 25-year rule — but eligibility is specific to the exact build and variant, so we always verify your target car against the current register before you commit.
Why is the US different from Australia here?
The US only has the age-based 25-year federal exemption for individually-imported classic cars — there's no equivalent to Australia's SEVS scheme. That means US buyers genuinely do have to wait for later Evo VII–IX builds to age into eligibility.