![[ Auto Express ]](/front_website/images/ae_website_logo.gif){kind=logo}
Auto Express Car Reviews
Mitsubishi Prototype-S
Son of Evo hatches out
Plans for a hatchback understudy for the mighty Evo X gather pace.
By James Disdale
28th January 2008
The latest hot Mitsubishi is ready to hatch! Set to go head-to-head with the Ford Focus ST, the new Lancer Ralliart has five-door practicality, a 238bhp engine and four-wheel drive.
It’s based on the upcoming Sportback version of the new Lancer, but will offer superb pace and excellent handling. Called the Prototype-S, by the time this model reaches the showrooms it will be badged Ralliart.
Externally, the hot five-door takes its inspiration from the range-topping Evo X. The nose has the same gaping grille for extra cooling, aggressive slanted headlamps and aluminium bonnet with multiple air vents.
Meanwhile, along the sides of the newcomer are subtle sill extensions, which match the deeper and wider bumper.
However, the big story is at the rear, where a hatchback replaces the familiar saloon layout. A rakish tailgate and wraparound lights give the
car a distinctive tail, while below the bumper there are two large exhaust pipes.
Inside, the cabin features Recaro sports seats, a chunky three-spoke steering wheel and aluminium pedals. The racy looks are backed up by equally impressive running gear. As it sits just below the Evo X in the line-up, the Ralliart gets a 238bhp version of that car’s 2.0-litre turbo engine and a six-speed semi-automatic gearbox. This combination should launch the five-door from 0-60mph in less than six seconds.
Unlike rivals such as the Focus ST and Vauxhall Astra VXR, the Lancer benefits from an advanced four-wheel-drive system. Borrowed from the outgoing Evo IX, it boasts active yaw control and a complex centre differential that will give the car sharp handling in all weather conditions.
The Lancer Ralliart will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March. It will hit UK dealers later this year, priced around £20,000.
It’s based on the upcoming Sportback version of the new Lancer, but will offer superb pace and excellent handling. Called the Prototype-S, by the time this model reaches the showrooms it will be badged Ralliart.
Externally, the hot five-door takes its inspiration from the range-topping Evo X. The nose has the same gaping grille for extra cooling, aggressive slanted headlamps and aluminium bonnet with multiple air vents.
Meanwhile, along the sides of the newcomer are subtle sill extensions, which match the deeper and wider bumper.
However, the big story is at the rear, where a hatchback replaces the familiar saloon layout. A rakish tailgate and wraparound lights give the
car a distinctive tail, while below the bumper there are two large exhaust pipes.
Inside, the cabin features Recaro sports seats, a chunky three-spoke steering wheel and aluminium pedals. The racy looks are backed up by equally impressive running gear. As it sits just below the Evo X in the line-up, the Ralliart gets a 238bhp version of that car’s 2.0-litre turbo engine and a six-speed semi-automatic gearbox. This combination should launch the five-door from 0-60mph in less than six seconds.
Unlike rivals such as the Focus ST and Vauxhall Astra VXR, the Lancer benefits from an advanced four-wheel-drive system. Borrowed from the outgoing Evo IX, it boasts active yaw control and a complex centre differential that will give the car sharp handling in all weather conditions.
The Lancer Ralliart will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March. It will hit UK dealers later this year, priced around £20,000.
Social Bookmarks