Why These Generations of the Evo, WRX, and Civic Are the Best for Enthusiasts

Introduction

When it comes to legendary JDM platforms, few cars have stood the test of time like the Mitsubishi Evolution, Subaru WRX, and Honda Civic. Each has built a die-hard following thanks to the mod potential, performance, and sheer driving excitement that these models bring to the table. But ask any enthusiast, and you'll quickly find yourself in a heated debate over which generation is the best.

To settle it (or at least fuel the conversation), we’re breaking down the top three generations of each—not based on nostalgia, but on what actually makes them great. After all, iconic models like these don't get famous overnight - they do so on the backs of a massive, growing and dedicated (sometimes rabid) fanbase. 

Whether you’re looking to build a high-horsepower monster, a track weapon, or just daily drive a tuner legend, these are the Evo, WRX, and Civic generations that deserve the crown.

Read More: Subaru WRX vs. BRZ - Which Is Better For Modding?

Mitsubishi Evolution – The Best Generations for Performance Junkies

Evo 7/8/9 – The Golden Era of the 4G63T

For many, the Evo 7, 8, and 9 represent the peak of Mitsubishi’s rally-bred monster. Powered by the legendary 4G63T engine and featuring one of the best AWD systems ever put in a sedan, these models are known for their incredible handling, aggressive styling, and insane tuning potential.

• The Evo 8 MR & Evo 9 brought even more refinement, including MIVEC variable valve timing (on the Evo 9 especially) and an upgraded AYC differential.

• Still one of the most popular tuner cars today—600+whp builds aren’t uncommon.

• Cemented its legacy in motorsports and pop culture (yes, we’re looking at you, Fast & Furious).

Why it's great: Pound for pound, one of the best all-wheel-drive turbocharged cars ever built.

Evo X – The Last of the Evos

The Evo X was controversial when it dropped in 2008, but over time, it’s earned the respect it deserves. While heavier than previous Evo generations, it offered consumer-friendly refinements that served to take some performance capacities away, but regardless, the Evo X is still a fan favorite because of the following: 

• Swapped the 4G63 for the new 4B11T

• Better chassis, more refined interior, and a solid 5-speed or SST dual-clutch option.

• The last Evolution ever made, making clean examples easier to find.

Why it's great: The most modern Evo, with a balance of power, tech, and usability. Also, it ran for a decade on the market, which is basically unheard of in today's world.

Evo 4/5/6 – The Underrated Gems

While they don’t get as much love in the U.S. (thanks to import laws), the Evo 4, 5, and 6 are legendary in their own right.

• Lighter and more raw than later models.

• Strong WRC pedigree—Tommi Mäkinen’s Evo 6 TME is one of the most iconic rally cars ever.

• Now becoming legal for U.S. imports, making them more desirable.

Why it's great: Old-school Evo magic with the ultimate rally DNA.

Read More: All About Our Brand New Evo X Build

Subaru WRX – Rally Heritage and Boosted Fun

Hawkeye WRX (2nd Gen) – The Fan Favorite

Ask any Subaru fan their favorite WRX, and the Hawkeye (2006-2007) will come up every time.

• EJ255 boxer engine with tons of tuning potential.

• Widebody STI models still look aggressive today.

• More balanced handling than previous generations.

Why it's great: The WRX that defined Subaru’s tuner scene. Thanks to massively fun driving dynamics and amazing power, the Hawkeye WRX is the closest link to straight up rally Subies that you could've asked for back in the day. 

GR/GV WRX (3rd Gen) – The Hatchback Era

The GR/GV (2008-2014 WRX/STI) gave us something Subaru never would again—a true rally-inspired hot hatch.

• More daily-friendly than the previous generation.

• The last STI hatchback ever made—making it highly sought-after today.

• One of the best AWD systems for all-season driving.

Why it's great: The perfect WRX blend of function, performance, and modability.

VB WRX (5th Gen) – The Modern Contender

Subaru’s latest VB-gen WRX (2022+) got off to a rocky start with the enthusiast crowd, but there’s no denying it’s a capable platform.

• FA20 engine replaces the EJ—more potential, fewer ringland memes.

• Suspension improvements make it more daily-friendly.

• Even without an STI version, it’s still a proper WRX.

Why it's great: The most refined WRX yet—whether you love it or not, it’s here to stay.

Read More: New Features and Release Date For The Upcoming 2025 Subaru WRX tS

Honda Civic – The Ultimate Jack-of-All-Trades

11th Gen Civic – Honda's Modern Masterpiece

The newest FL5 Civic Type R might just be Honda’s best work yet.

• The K20C1 turbo engine is even more dialed in than before.

• Lighter, sharper, and more balanced than the FK8.

• Finally a Civic that doesn’t feel like it sacrifices engagement for tech.

Why it's great: One of the best-driving Civic models ever made, full stop.

5th Gen Civic – The OG Tuner's Dream

You don’t talk about Honda tuner culture without mentioning the EG Hatch & Coupe.

• Lightweight chassis, bulletproof D and B-series swaps.

• The perfect starter platform for any JDM fan.

• Endless aftermarket support—seriously, you can build one from scratch if you really wanted to.

Why it's great: The Civic that made Honda mod culture what it is today.

9th Gen Civic – The Sleeper Pick

While it was overlooked when new, the 9th gen Civic (2012-2015) is finally getting its due.

• The K24 engine is a torque-happy gem.

• Last NA Civic before Honda went turbo.

• 9th Gen Si and Type R have aged extremely well.

Why it's great: It’s fun, reliable, and surprisingly underrated in the Honda community.

Read More: Civic Type R vs. Si - Is The Type R Worth The Money?

Conclusion – What’s the Best Generation for You?

At the end of the day, choosing the best Evo, WRX, or Civic comes down to your goals.

• Want the ultimate AWD weapon? Evo 7-9 or Hawkeye WRX is your best bet.

• Looking for a daily-driven tuner build? GR WRX or 11th Gen Civic are great choices.

• Want a JDM classic with unlimited potential? EG Civic or Evo 4-6 is where it’s at.

No matter which you pick, you’re in for an iconic ride. And when you’re ready to start modding, you already know where to go—MAPerformance has you covered with everything from bolt-ons to full builds.