These independent illustrations were made by Nikita Chuiko for Kolesa.ru and are neither related to nor endorsed by Mitsubishi.

Mitsubishi retired the legendary Evolution nameplate in 2016 when the last Lancer Evo X rolled of the production line. While a new Lancer is not a priority at the moment, recent reports from Japanese media suggest that the Evo moniker might return as a performance variant of the Outlander PHEV, and our colleagues at Kolesa created a couple of renderings for the spiced-up SUV.

Since we don’t have any teasers or spy pictures, the renderings are speculative. In fact, the only thing that we have is the official announcement for Ralliart’s return and an Outlander with a special livery that participated in the 2021 Rebelle Rally.

Read Also: Mitsubishi Explains Why We Won’t See A New Lancer Evolution Anytime Soon

A sporty Outlander PHEV could get blacked-out treatment for the Dynamic Shield, ditching the chrome, plus a signature hood scoop. Oversized wheels with performance tires and a lowered suspension would improve both looks and handling, while a Race Red body color would be nostalgic to say the least.

At the back, the Outlander PHEV doesn’t have any visible exhaust pipes but an Evo variant should, with a dual-pipe setup and a large diffuser depicted on these renderings. The factory-spec model already has a rear spoiler as an extension of the black-painted roof so there are no changes in this department.

See Also: 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Debuts With More Electric Power And A 54-Mile Electric Range

An Evo version of an SUV may sound like sacrilege but this wouldn’t be the first time. Mitsubishi produced the Pajero Evo between 1997 and 1999 as a homologation special for the Dakar Rally. Given that hot SUVs are gaining popularity and becoming a substitute for hot hatchbacks and performance sedans, Mitsubishi could go down that road again.

The extra weight and higher ground clearance are drawbacks for performance and handling, but the automakers are compensating with adaptive suspension systems and increased power outputs thanks to electrification. Something similar could happen in the case of the Outlander PHEV Evo, supposing that the rumors are true.