500bhp Evo On The Way

A company insider told Auto Express: "Customers are tuning their cars beyond the 330bhp of the current range-topping model, so there's obviously the demand for an even faster version."

The firm is said to be looking at the maximum performance it can get from the rally-bred car. How engineers will squeeze an extra 170bhp from the 2.0-litre turbo isn't clear, but the engine management system would almost certainly be remapped.

Mitsubishi UK boss Jim Tyrrell refused to confirm the plans, but said: "We already have three different Evo models, but there could be further growth. One of the advantages of being a small niche player is that we can sometimes do crazy things."