2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution — 2.0L

The 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution sits in a late-model uptick after a mid-generation lull: its 22 complaints, 2 recalls, and 1 federal investigation are higher than the 3–4 complaints and single recall recorded for 2012–2013, but far below the worst years such as 2008 with 59 complaints and 4 recalls, 2010 with 79 complaints and 7 recalls, and 2011 with 45 complaints and 4 recalls. Complaint volume for the generation crested in 2010 with 79 complaints and 7 recalls, fell sharply to 3–4 complaints and one recall annually in 2012–2013, then rebounded for 2014 and 2015, which each recorded 2 recalls, 1 investigation, and 22–26 complaints. Within 2014 itself, Power Train complaints lead at 5, followed by Air Bags at 2, with Structure and Suspension each at 1; the year also generated 4 crash-related and 3 fire-related complaints, though the data does not specify root causes. Technical service bulletins reached 89 in 2014, compared with 78 in 2013 and 77 in 2015, making it the highest among those three late-model years. Relative to the most troubled model years, 2014 looks comparatively tame, yet it is not as quiet as the 2012–2013 low point and carries the same recall and investigation count as 2015. For a buyer, the 2014 model is a reasonable but not exceptional choice: federal flags are moderate and lower than the generation's worst years, though a pre-purchase inspection and recall-status check are prudent given the late-generation uptick and the presence of fire and crash complaints.