View more pictures of the Mitsubishi Prototype-S

These are the first official pictures of the new Mitsubishi Prototype-S – the ‘hot-hatch’ version of the storming Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X.

The new Mitsubishi Prototype-S will be officially unveiled at the upcoming Geneva motor show next month and will go head-to-head with the new Subaru Impreza WRX hatchback.

The Mitsubishi Prototype-S – short for ‘Sportback’ – will feature a 2-litre turbocharged engine producing just under 300bhp and 300lb/ft of pulling power.

This means a 0-62mph of around five seconds and a top speed of 160mph.

This massive power will be driven to all four wheels thanks to Mitsubishi’s famous all-wheel-drive system, which includes a host of electronic driver aids such as skid control, brake control and ‘roll-control suspension technologies.’

Mitsubishi says the new Prototype-S “closely previews the forthcoming Lancer Sportback”, and features a ‘jet-fighter’ style grille, Lancer Evolution X-style bonnet, 19-inch alloy wheels and a swooping rear end and widened stance.

And the new Mitsubishi Prototype-S will cosset the driver with twin-hood meters, black suede on the dashboard and door panels, and light-brown coloured leather upholstery.

The Prototype-S will be launched later in the year, and Mitsubishi expects this ‘hot-hatch’ version of its Lancer Evolution X to be the biggest seller in Europe.

Around 80 per cent of European buyers are expected to plump for the Prototype-S, with prices expected to start from around £20,000.
 
And we’re at the launch of the storming new Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X saloon – check back with Auto Trader to read our definitive verdict.

We drove the last generation Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX - read our verdict on the storming supercar-slayer.

View more pictures of the Mitsubishi Prototype-S