The Lancer Evo-X is expected to be released internationally later this year and it looks a ripper.

A preview of the hot sedan was shown at the Detroit Motor Show in the guise of the Prototype X.

While the Lancer is an important car for Mitsubishi as the vehicle is the only one of its fleet increasing sales, we will have to wait for 2008 despite the new Lancer sedan being released here in March.

The new Lancer sedan, for the first time with continuously variable transmission, is based on the company's Project Global platform, a new flexible architecture that also forms the foundation of the second-generation Outlander, released here late last year.

However, based on the Prototype X, the Evo X will have a fresh engine and a two-pedal, six-speed paddleshift semi-auto, rally-style gearbox, although a five-speed manual will also be offered.

The Evo X is 1.5cm shorter than its predecessor, but also 5.8cm wider and 2.5cm taller, with a 3.5cm longer wheelbase and 32kg more bulk.

Up front there are two huge scoops in the nose.

Under the bonnet, the two-litre turbocharged motor has been replaced by a new MIVEC two-litre turbo with an aluminium block.

Power is expected to rise from 206kW to about 236kW and torque up from 400Nm to 441Nm.

Mitsubishi claims a 0-100km/h sprint in under 4.5 seconds.

It will feature "Super All Wheel Control", active suspension and steering, and active brake con-

trol technology on top of the current car's cornering system combining electronically controlled four-wheel drive with active stability and yaw control and an active centre differential.

A dash-mounted satellite navigation screen will display real-time information on the status of the S-AWC system.