Mitsubishi Prepares Prototype-X for Detroit

Since its creation in 1992, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution has been a motoring force to be reckoned with. It might have been based on an innocuous four-door compact sedan, but the Evolutions have always packed a punch that could dizzy even the highest caliber performance cars. And though they werent and still arent glamorous in the slightest, they most certainly delivered in substance. Nine generations later, the Evolution is a well-respected member of the sports car community, which is eagerly awaiting its next installment that will debut at this years NAIAS in prototype form.

After subtle tweaks and changes over the past three generations of Lancer Evolution, Mitsubishi is preparing to make a huge leap forward with the tenth Evolution. We got a big hint as to what was in store with the Concept-X that debuted at last years Tokyo Motor Show. However, having just announced the regular production Lancer, Mitsubishi is still working to perfect its secret weapon. For now, however, its honed the design of the Concept-X into the Prototype-X.

From these sketches, its clear that a positive response to the Concept-Xs aggressive shape has influenced Mitsubishis product planners, as they have left the exterior mostly the same. The Prototype-X has different front bumpers with low-mounted turn signal indicators and unique headlamps. Around back, the rear bumper has a different diffuser design, the taillights have red bezels instead of clear ones and the side-view mirrors have integrated turn signals. Surely there are other alterations, but these are the ones weve picked out from the sketch. No word yet on the interior, but we hope its going to be just as cool as that in the Concept-X.

Mitsu was light on the details regarding the all-wheel drive system on this latest release, but if the Concept Xs S-AWD system is whats going to be carried over we just might be looking at the best four-wheel drive car to date. S-AWD combines everything currently employed in the Lancer Evolution IX, such as an Active Rear Differential and Active Yaw Control with Active Brake Control, Active Steering System, and Roll Control suspension. The integration of the latter two systems should give the Lancer the ability to turn as quickly as a housefly and secure all of its estimated 300 horsepower to the ground. Grins are definitely in store for those who get behind the wheel.