2007 Detroit Auto Show: Lancer Prototype X
We’re just going to cut to the chase: Mitsubishi’s Prototype X is the next Lancer Evolution. No, we don’t understand why Mitsubishi didn’t call it the “Evo Concept” either, but the company is all hung up on this being the 10th generation of the popular street racer.
The Prototype X is based on the new Lancer compact sedan. The engine will be a turbocharged version of the base car’s new four-cylinder. There is NO official word on the final horsepower rating of the 2.0-liter. We’d guess it will be more than 300 hp. Mitsubishi did reveal the next Evo will have a new version of the company’s all-wheel-drive system, called Super All-Wheel Control. We’ve heard a name like that before…hmmm…where have we heard that?
What else might interest you besides the gigantic gaping mouth on the front? The car will feature a new automated manual transmission with shift paddles instead of a standard manual stick shift.
very nice! I like... (Borat voice)
Posted by: happymantis | Jan 8, 2007 12:53:18 PM
very very nice, love the interior, but why in the world would they put an automanual in somthin like this?
Posted by: sum dude | Jan 8, 2007 2:22:06 PM
in certain applications an automated manual delivers faster shifts than a human can with its left foot and right arm. The VW GTI is one of those for example. It sounds like this system will be more of a sequential manual and not a duall clutch setup like in the GTI.
We're not sure though and are looking into it.
Posted by: Dave T. | Jan 8, 2007 3:21:54 PM
The automanual is there for people that don't know how to row-it-yourself. Why in the world they don't offer the manual? It is way more INVOLVING.
Posted by: J | Jan 8, 2007 4:52:13 PM
What Dave said. There's a huge difference between an electronically controlled manual and a shiftable automatic. Ultimately I'd say if it's in an Evo you know it must be good. I'd be amazed if they don't offer a manual as well though. It would be quite a bit cheaper.
Keep in mind that it's theoretically a prototype and they won't be divulging everything. I just hope the wing doesn't get any bigger.
Posted by: Lil'Tom | Jan 8, 2007 7:06:22 PM
When the production Lancer Evolution X that this car hints at arrives in 2008, it'll offer a five-speed manual in addition to the sequential manual transmission.
Posted by: Mike H. | Jan 8, 2007 10:22:53 PM
i dont understand the appeal to these civic-like cars...if you're going to spend that kind of money on a economy sized car, would't it look better to get a sports car...i don't believe this will be a "family car" as it would be too embarrasing in the carpool lane...HAHA
Posted by: happy lopez | Jan 8, 2007 10:26:13 PM
Mike H.
Only a 5MT? Where is the 6MT that's used in the MR right now?
Posted by: J | Jan 8, 2007 11:56:36 PM
J--
No word yet on whether the MR will return when the Lancer Evolution goes back on sale, but I do find it a bit odd that the regular Evolution won't get a six-speed manual.
Posted by: Mike H. | Jan 9, 2007 7:44:53 AM
Pretty cool! It would be awesome if they take out the hood scoop. It reminds evo drivers a hint of STI. The EVO should be unique.
Posted by: Iron Mike | Jan 9, 2007 8:36:17 AM
I love it, Great Job Mitsubushi!! I currently have the Evo VII, can't wait to upgrade.
Posted by: Nick B | Jan 9, 2007 8:54:18 AM
this is the best looking car ever period.
Posted by: David | Mar 2, 2007 6:53:50 PM
I think they offered both auto and manual to appeal to those who do not know how to drive a stick.
Posted by: raymond | Apr 9, 2007 11:39:19 PM
I dont think that is a hood scoop, I think that is a vent for the hot air to come out.
The subaru's scoop is to cool the intercooler which is on top of the engine.
They have a similar design theme on the evo 7
Posted by: raymond | Apr 9, 2007 11:43:26 PM
I like the looks of this car, . . . but it reminds me A LOT of the 1993-2001 Suburau Impreza.
Posted by: Jason | Apr 10, 2007 9:48:21 AM