Evo Goes For The Perfect 10

The current issue of Auto Express magazine carries an exclusive image of the new Evo X concept, giving a stunning glimpse of the firm's future. The image was flashed up on a large screen at a recent press conference in Japan, to the amazement of the journalists who were present.

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Peter Lyon

08th July 2004

The 10th incarnation of the fast four-door will become more distinctive, thanks to the aggressive nose and headlamps influenced by the Grandis MPV. However, rally fans will be pleased to see the trademark rear spoiler has been kept to emphasise the car's racing roots.

A company spokesman stressed that the image was "a design study, and not the final model", but insiders say it's an accurate depiction of the new car. Although similar in dimensions to the current Evo VIII, the Evo X will sit on an all-new platform. The car will take its power from a redesigned four-cylinder turbocharged unit, which will produce in excess of 320bhp and 431Nm of torque. Cutting-edge chassis technology, including a re-engineered active limited-slip differential, will also help the Evo X to stay near the top of the performance saloon sales charts when it is launched in 2007.

However, before the Evo X officially breaks cover, there will be an Evo IX, based on the current Lancer, released next year. It will come with revised suspension and some new body panels.