Mitsubishi Lancer Prototype-S

[B][CENTER]Mitsubishi Lancer Prototype-S[/CENTER][/B]

Just as [URL="http://www.ultimatecarpage.com/forum/matt-s-hi-res-hide-out/17181-mitsubishi-sportback-concept.html"]Concept-X (2005 Tokyo)[/URL] and then [URL="http://www.ultimatecarpage.com/forum/matt-s-hi-res-hide-out/18349-mitsubishi-concept-x.html"]Prototype-X (2007 Detroit)[/URL] announced the new Lancer and Lancer Evolution X (ten), Prototype-S will follow in the footsteps of the much-acclaimed Concept-Sportback show car (2005 Frankfurt) to preview the shape of the forthcoming Lancer Sportback.

When launched later in the year, this 5-door hatchback variant of the new Lancer family will be the most important of all in Europe, representing 70% of the forecasted Lancer volume in the overall region and 80% in the UK. Sporting a powerful metallic orange - similar to the one selected for Lancer Ralliart at the Detroit Auto Show a few weeks ago - Prototype-S will add the convenience of a lift-gate and flexible rear seating to the driving dynamics of the new Lancer range. It will hit the same unconventional buttons as Lancer Sports Sedan, albeit in a hatchback format, benchmarking the likes of Alfa Romeo with the 156 / 159 Sportwagons (dynamic benchmark) and of Saab with the legendary Saab 900 Turbo Combi-Coupé (aspirational benchmark).

Mirroring this aspiration: a sporty wedge-like profile, sharply chiselled lines, assertive stance born from a long wheelbase and wide track proportions, a high-shouldered rear end and the very expressive rear roof spoiler will embody Mitsubishi’s vision for a flexible sports sedan in the C/D sector, away from the traditional hatchbacks.

Fittingly, Prototype-S will blend elements from Concept-Sportback (the overall concept), Lancer Evolution X (the execution) and Lancer Ralliart (240ps / 343 Nm 2.0 litre turbo engine, Twin Clutch SST gearbox, full-time 4WD drivetrain featuring Mitsubishi Motors’ Active Center Differential), as well as proposing a further evolution of Mitsubishi Motors’ Jet Fighter grille.

It's probably too early but I think the Sportback looked better.

I like what I see so far...

I like it too; nifty design.

Looks alright. Does the tailgate remind anyone else of the Focus ST?

i like it much more than the standard sedan. it flows a lot better i think.

works well marketing wise, this is much better than WRX hatch...

i thought the lancer X was supposed to be the last lancer?

and is that a hatchback!? no. no. just NO. PLEASE! stay with me evo :(

No way man. I reckon the Impreza hatch looks way better