Exactly one month ago I showed you the first picture of the new Mitsubishi Lancer Prototype-S. It was a designer’s shot and it got a lot of attention, but the good thing is that I’ve managed to get the first real photo of the car.

Rumors say that it’s not really a concept as we’ve been tipped before but a pre-production version of the upcoming Lancer Ralliart a big competitor to Subaru Impreza WRX.

Geneva Motor Show is the place where we should see the new Mitsubishi Lancer Prototype-S powered by an EVO X’s 2.0 liter turbo engine that sports 240 hp and has 343 Nm of torque.

Though I don’t like the rear very much I think the front part got my love.

A few days ago I told you about Mitsubishi Prototype S sports hatchback that the Japanese company might show during the Auto Show at Geneva, in March, and now I’ve found out that it’s official.  Staying on the same design path as the Impreza, Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback is going to be a big crush for those looking for a fast car.

Lancer Prototype-S is going to be delivered with a four-cylinder 4B11 engine that delivers 240 bhp (and 343 Nm), has a six-speed Twin Clutch SST automated manual transmission and a 4-wheel drive (4WD) system. Other abbreviations that you may consider interesting are ABS, S-AWC (Super all-wheel Drive Control), ACD (Active Center Differential) and ASC (Active Stability Control).

I’m sure we’ll find out prices of the new Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback as well, when Geneva kicks off.

Mitsubishi and Subaru have always been head-to-head with releasing extremely aggressive (as in performances and looks) models. It’s time for Mitsubishi this year to take Lancer to the next level: a 5-door sportback sedan. Dubbed Mitsubishi Lancer Prototype S, it should be available if our sources are correct in March at Geneva.

The same sources said that judging by the looks it should have closely specs with the Evolution Ralliart model, using a 2.0 liter supercharged engine that develops 240hp, permanent all-wheel drive, active centre differential and active yaw control.

We’ll probably know more by the end of February.

via CarScoop