Mitsubishi introduced the Lancer Evolution IX in Japan on March 3, 2005, and exhibited the car at the Geneva Motor Show for the European market the same day. The North American markets saw the model exhibited at the New York International Auto Show the following month. The 2.0 L (1,997 cc) 4G63 Inline-four engine has MIVEC technology (variable valve timing), and a revised turbocharger design boosting official power output at the crankshaft to 291 PS (214 kW; 287 hp) and torque to 392 N⋅m (289 lb⋅ft).

Mitsubishi also released an Evolution IX wagon in GT, GT-A models, and MR special versions. Variants came in a 6-speed manual (GT, MR) or a 5-speed automatic (GT-A). The automatic variant uses a non-MIVEC 4G63 sourced from the Evo VIII with a smaller turbo for increased low-down torque. It was only sold in Japan and imported to other countries as grey imports.

The manual transmission GT Evolution Wagon didn't weigh much more than the Evo IX sedan but the additional 20 kg (44 lb) approx was due to its Steel turret, steel anti-intrusion bars in the doors and the heavier foldable rear seat, along with extra weight in the tailgate and extra side glass.…