Announced on the 29th January 2002, the Lancer Evolution VII GT-A was announced - the first Evo to have automatic transmission. Talk of a semi-automatic Evo had been circulating the industry since the latter part of 2001, and it wasn't really a shock as it was the way most manufacturers were going.

Based on the GSR, but with a more sophisticated, as opposed to aggressive look, it was the brainchild of the marketing people. Nonetheless, Inagaki-san stated that he would like to see an automatic gearbox for his rally cars one day, as soon as technology allowed a suitable transmission, and it was certainly an interesting development in the Lancer's history.

The air outlet and NACA duct on the bonnet, plus the inlet in the centre of the upper part of the front bumper, were removed, while the number plate moved to a central position. At the back, the standard spoiler was reduced in size and redesigned to incorporate an LED high mount brake light, although it was possible to fit the original spoiler or specify a car without a spoiler at all, according to the buyer's wishes. Discharge headlights/foglights came as part of the GT-A package, while the indicators and rear combination lamps were given clear lenses.

The interior was subtly different from that of the original Evolution VII GSR, in that it featured a blue finish on the dashboard inserts, white gauges were used once again. The gearlever surround and the power window switch panels, were of chrome finish as was the air conditioning controls and door handles. Electrically adjustable leather trimmed Recaro seats were available as an option.

The 4G63 engine was retained, although given a new turbocharger with a smaller nozzle diameter for better response. In line with the adoption of an automatic transmission, it was detuned slightly to give a maximum 272bhp @ 6500rpm, with 253lb/ft of torque being developed at 3000rpm.

The gearbox was a five speed INVECS II "sports mode" unit, incidentally, with a traditional centre tunnel mounted shift and steering wheel paddles; the first time this arrangement had ever been used on a Mitsubishi road car. While the drivetrain from the GSR was carried over [with AYC, ACD and sports ABS included], the body was further strengthened and given a number of measures to reduce NVH [noise, vibration and harshness] and enhance refinement. The steering ratio, suspension settings and anti-roll bar diameters were also revised to fit in with the new model's sophisticated image, and the tyres made slightly narrower [now listed at 225/45]. The attractive wheels were retained, however, although given a shiny finish instead of matt silver. Limited to just 2000 units, only one grade was available priced at 3,300,000 Yen.