The Journey of a Passion-Fueled: Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution GSR

Use The Share Buttons Above The Image To Share This Story, Thank You

Order Your Printed Car Magazine From Our TikTok, Amazon or Etsy - UK/EU Stores!!

Chelsea Stephan

2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution GSR

Instagram: @cstep_evox @low_boost_performance
www.lowboostperformance.com

Photographer/Author:
Donnie Rochin
Instagram: @r0cean11
Facebook: r0ccean11 Photography
www.r0cean11.com

Meet Chelsea Stephan: The Heart Behind the Evo Build

I’m Chelsea Stephan, a proud mom of two boys, living my thirties to the fullest with my family and dogs. My husband Austin and I run Low Boost Performance, an automotive shop specializing in JDM cars. Cars have always been part of my life, thanks to my family, and my passion for them has only grown since meeting Austin. Together, we’ve immersed ourselves in the car scene, and it has become a key part of who we are.

How My Love for Cars Evolved

My love for cars has deep roots. My mom and grandma always adored classic cars, while Austin, a lifelong gearhead, got me deeper into the car world. From the day we started dating, we never missed a Sunday Cars and Coffee meet or a cruise with friends. This shared passion is a cornerstone of our relationship, and I fell in love with the car scene more deeply than I could have ever imagined.

Why I Chose the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution GSR

I chose the Evo because of its blend of performance, style, and versatility. Its aggressive design and rally heritage captivated me, but what really sold me was its handling and overall control behind the wheel. The Evo is a car that can comfortably handle daily driving but also offers the thrills of performance when you want it. Plus, being part of the JDM scene, owning an Evo feels like joining a legendary community.

My Journey Through Different Cars

Before the Evo, my first performance car was a 2001 V6 Mustang. While it wasn’t fast, it opened my eyes to the world of modifications and performance upgrades. But it wasn’t until I got my hands on the Evo that I truly dove into serious mods. The Evo’s limitless potential made it so rewarding to push boundaries with each upgrade, and it’s the car that sparked my love for building something that truly reflects my passion.

Building My Evo – A Blend of Style and Performance

Driving my Evo always brings a sense of pride. Its looks, the way it performs, and the attention it grabs—whether at shows or on the street—makes me smile every time. While building this Evo, I’ve focused not just on its performance but also on the aesthetic details that reflect my personality. It’s not just a car; it’s a project I’m proud of, and I hope it inspires others to push their limits with their builds.

Key Modifications on My Evo

• Engine/Drivetrain:

  • Built Engine, TPC GTR Spec Turbo
  • Sheepy Intercooler, ETS intake, ETS intercooler piping
  • HKS Hi-Power Exhaust, 3 port boost controller, Tial BOV
  • Radium fuel system with dual 340s, Alpha 2200 injectors, ethanol only
  • Custom titanium heat shield, all titanium hardware
  • Custom midnight blue powder coating

• Suspension: Airlift 3P

• Brakes/Wheels:

  • Work Wheel D9R 19x10.5 with custom powder coating

• Interior:

  • Factory leather Recaro seats
  • NRG quick-release steering wheel setup
  • AEM electronic gauges

• Exterior:

  • Seibon carbon fiber hood, Varis front bumper, and Varis rear bumper
  • Victory function front fenders, Varis side skirts
  • Custom wrap by The Club Customs: Inzotek Midnight Purple and 3M Matte Black

Building the Evo – A Team Effort

All the work on my Evo has been done at Low Boost Performance. Our shop is a labor of love, and it’s a rewarding feeling knowing my husband, Austin, and I, along with our talented staff, built this car from the ground up. From the engine to the exterior, every mod reflects our passion for the JDM scene.

Future Plans for My Evo

The journey with my Evo is far from over. I’m considering adding a Varis wide-body kit to the rear, custom three-piece wheels, and possibly a unique paint job. I also want to continue refining the interior with more modifications while maintaining the comfort and style I love.

The Car Scene – A Community of Passion and Growth

The car scene has brought so much into my life, from friendships to professional growth. Running Low Boost Performance has been an incredible journey, allowing me to connect with fellow car enthusiasts and dive deeper into the culture I love. The satisfaction of seeing our work on display, admired by others, brings a unique sense of fulfillment.

Advice for Evo Owners and Enthusiasts

For anyone considering an Evo, my advice is to do your research before buying. These cars are high-performance machines, but they require maintenance. Test the AWD system, as it can be costly to repair if neglected. For mods, start with the basics—intake, exhaust, and a professional tune to safely unlock more power. Don’t skimp on quality; cheap parts can hinder performance and reliability.

My Dream Car – A Project and a Passion

For me, the Evo is my dream car. Every time I drive it, I feel proud of the work I’ve put in and the experiences it has given me. The thought of ever selling it feels impossible because it’s more than just a car—it’s a passion project that embodies everything I’ve worked for. I’ve found my dream car in the Evo, and I’m excited to continue building and enjoying it for years to come.

Shout-Outs and Gratitude

A big thank you to our shop, Low Boost Performance, and our incredible staff. And to everyone who has supported me along the way, from fellow car enthusiasts to friends, I’m grateful for this amazing journey.

Please leave your comments on my story in the comments section at the bottom of the page, it helps the story get more views and reach the Printed Car Magazine, Thank you.

'The future is bright as long as we can still Smell the Fumes'

Take A Car Quiz: So you think you know all about Cars prove it,

Do you Need A Freelance Photographer? Our Photographers Are Available For Hire

UKTM no: UK00003572459