2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Prototype-S

[YoTa_BoX]

Just as Concept-X (2005 Tokyo) and then Prototype-X (2007 Detroit) 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.


engine Type 4B11 Aluminum Inline-4
position Front Transverse
aspiration Turbocharged & Intercooled
valvetrain DOHC, 4 Valves per Cyl w/MIVEC VVT
fuel feed Injection
displacement 1998 cc / 121.9 cu in
bore 86 mm / 3.39 in
stroke 86 mm / 3.39 in
compression 9.0:1
power 175.2 kw / 235 bhp
hp per litre 117.62 bhp per litre
bhp/weight 152.9 bhp per tonne
torque 343.02 nm / 253 ft lbs
drive wheels 4WD w/S-AWC, AYC, ASC
body / frame Until Steel
steering Rack & Pinion w/Hydrualic Assist
f suspension MacPherson Strut w/Forged Control Arms, Bilstein Shock Absorbers, Eibach Coil Springs
r suspension MultiLink Strut w/Bilstein Shock Absorbers, Eibach Coil Springs
front track 1530 mm / 60.2 in
rear track 1530 mm / 60.2 in
transmission Twin Clutch SST 6-Speed Automated Manual or 5-Speed Manuall
gear ratios 3.655:1, 2.368:1, 1.754:1, 1.322:1, 1.008:1
final drive 4.062:1