I know that it seems they made the X the way they made it because the livability of the VIII and IX got to people, or so I assume. The X seems to be a big step up, but what do the owners think? It seems like the STi did this but it made the car TOO soft.

 

I had an Evo VIII, and now have an X. The X retains all of the aspects that I loved about it, but smooths out the rough edges. I love it.

I also had an '07 STI and now have an '08 STI, and I would say that both Mitsu and Subaru smoothed things out while retaining the fun elements to the same level. In fact, if I had to choose one, I'd say that the Evo was softened slightly more than the STI (previous generation vs. previous generation, not comparing the two).

 

Evo IX is mostly better quaility than the Evo X. Interior of a X felt like a down grade when i swapped over. The only interior improvement is the dash computer and better AC nobs.
X is lots of hard rattling plastic an lower quaility seats and streering wheel, I struggle to see the upgrade, maybe the Nav package but we dont get that option.

 

When I went to test drive the X, I was very disappointed in the interior. Maybe because it was so hyped up and looks much better in pictures.

 

In all reality, cruise control, better ride quality, much nicer interior, auto climate control, optional navi, bluetooth, MR's 6 speed automated manual, TPMS, SRS airbags, are all a step up in livability. I had zero problems with livability in my VIII, but the X feels even better driving everyday.

And the addition of all of this still did not hinder the overall aspect of the Evo. Performance enhancements like the new MIVEC 4B11, SAWC, SAYC, are great additions to the Evo.

 

X is boring compared to the 9

 

The X is a grown up verison of the older 8 and 9 models. Those models are much more raw, while the new X are still extremely sporty with splashes of luxury.

 

^ Good description from a IX owner. I agree 100%.