Mitsubishi Plans Evo-lution Revolution...

To avoid a backlash from outraged enthusiasts, Subaru still hasn't ruled out developing a saloon for the next-generation Impreza range. Insiders have also hinted that the company's line-up will eventually be expanded to include a high-performance supermini, designed to take on rivals including Ford's Fiesta ST and Mitsubishi's Colt CZT.

Auto Express Car Reviews

12th April 2005

However, the new-look Impreza will not be the only radical departure for the Japanese performance car market in 2007, as Mitsubishi is also planning to update its Evo range. The firm wants to enhance the appeal of its new Colt CZT supermini with an even faster version that will carry the famous Evo badge. With a high-output turbocharged engine and front-wheel drive, the hotter Colt is designed to provide Evo thrills for less money than the bigger saloon.

The only car to currently wear the Evo badge is the Lancer, currently available in its eighth evolution. Next month will see the UK debut of the Evo IX, the last car to use the current chassis, while Mitsubishi is currently in the process of developing an entirely new version of the Lancer saloon, the Evo X.