Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X

However the Lancer (and possibly the GSR version which will go head to head with the Subaru Impreza WRX) will be named the Galant Fortis (at least in the Japanese Market). This seems a little peculiar, as the Galant is usually a larger car than the Lancer, although it does makes sense now as to why Mitsubishi Australia did not call the Mitsubishi 380, the Galant.

Mitsubishi says that the new Lancer Evo X is no longer the hardcore drivers car, a reputation its predecessors enjoyed.

The Evo X will come with Mitsubishi’s S-AWC3 traction and handling system, the idea is to combine the control of drive torque and braking management with the Evo's four-wheel drive system to achieve highly responsive handling as well as outstanding stability.

The new Evo X will come with a redesigned and lighter high-performance 2.0-liter turbocharged MIVEC engine with aluminum cylinder block. Whilst Subaru has moved onto a 2.5-liter engine, the engineers at Mitsubishi believe the 2.0-liter will still compete.

Most important news though is regarding the transmission, Mitsubishi says the car will be powered by a a 6-speed automated manual transmission, it seems from that statement, the Evo X will come out with a Paddle Shift Type Gearbox?

Mitsubishi says the car shown here is 99% the same as the production version, obviously there will be some minor changes. Official unveiling for the Evo X will take place at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September.

There have been some rumours flying around regarding the price, with sources inside Mitsubishi Australia saying the car will cost in excess of $70,000, given the DSG, it might even be true!