Things are looking rather grim for the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, as the automaker says 2015 will be the Evo’s last year in production. Though it is sad to see it go, Mitsubishi->ke58 is giving the cult-classic rally car a proper send-off, though, with extra horsepower and other performance goodies bundled in a ‘Super Action Model.’

A report from Automotive News says the Evo MR trim will bite the dust in December, followed by the GSR further into 2015. Mitsubishi will also stop carrying the Recaro racing seats, but there’s no word on when exactly that will happen. It’s said that between 2,000 and 2,500 Evos are scheduled for production for the 2015 model year.

Things aren’t all bad new for Evo fans. Mitsubishi is adding a few features to the car for its last year, including a new Premium Package that comes with HID headlights, a Rockford Fosgate sound system, the FAST-key entry system, heated leather seats, sunroof, a new gloss-black front console box, and extra sound deadening. The MR Model is getting that same sound system and keyless entry package, along with an auto-dimming rearview mirror, automatic windshield wipers, automatic headlights, the gloss-black center console, and a few exterior color-keyed pieces. All Evos->ke2426 get revised side mirrors with integrated turn signals.

The Lancer Evolution’s death makes way for a redesigned Lancer sedan->ke142 for the 2016 model year. It is possible the rally-ready Evolution trim could make a comeback, but Mitsu is remaining mum on the topic.

Click past the jump to read more about the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

Why it Matters

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution has always been a solid choice for those wanting a factory-built rally car. While its only direct competition comes from the Subaru WRX, the Evo’s sales could never keep up. We’re looking forward to a revised Lancer for 2016, but it’s saddening to see the Evo get let go. I hope that Mitsubishi will get enough fan support to bring back the Evolution, even perhaps for just a limited run.

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is a pretty special car. It comes equipped with some serious rally-ready equipment like its Super All-Wheel Control system and Active Center Differential. It also sports Active Yaw Control, Active Stability Control, and sport-tuned anti-lock brakes to keep it on the road.

Its power comes from a turbocharged, 2.0-liter, inline four-cylinder engine making 291 horsepower and a seriously impressive 300 pound-feet of torque. It’s backed by either a short-throw, five-speed manual transmission or a six-speed, Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift transmission.

The Evolution commands a premium over its lesser Lancer stable mates. Base price for the Evo starts at $34,995 for the GSR trim, while the MR trim commands $38,195.