Budget JDM AWD Performance Wagon Shootout

The classic Subaru versus Mitsubishi showdown

While the Subaru Forester, even the rare STI, is well known among car aficionados, we’re pretty sure you haven’t heard of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX wagon, a car of only 2,500 examples were built. The two are put head to head in a video shootout aimed at discovering which of these two budget fast JDM AWD wagons is best.

The Subaru Forester STI is a great all rounder, with space for people, bags and even a dog, while its symmetrical all-wheel drive keeps things firm and planted. It has a characterful flat-four turbo engine providing the motivation with 300 standard horsepower on tap – or more, as it’s a unit which has a lot more to give with minimal modding.

The uber-rare Evo wagon is a different animal altogether. It’s much more of a corner carver, with lower springs, sharper steering and the considerably stiffer ride. Of the two, it’s definitely the driver’s pick, although its engine is less characterful, and it’s not as rugged as the Subaru.

It all comes down to preference, as both are really excellent picks for the right person.