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New Mitsubishi Concept X to Wow Tokyo Showgoers

Coming to a Local Mitsubishi Dealership Near You?

This is the car that will make Mitsubishis stand at the 39th Tokyo Motor Show buzz with action. This is the car that will lure in crowds like a moth to a bug-zapper. This is the car that will make children, teenagers and grown adults alike drool uncontrollably. This is the car that the rally world has long been waiting for, and will have fanatics lobbying Mitsubishi to build it. And now it is here - Mitsubishis Concept X - the preview to the next-generation Evolution X.

With less than a month between the Frankfurt Motor Show, where the Concept Sportback was released, and the Tokyo show where the Concept X is to be shown, its clear that Mitsubishi is on the fast track to launching

Mitsubishis Concept X. The preview to the next-generation Evolution X? (Photo: Mitsubishi Cars North America)

an entirely new portfolio for its upcoming compact lineup. Built upon the design theme introduced by the Sportback Concept, with its broad front shoulders and menacing grille, Mitsubishi has created a face thats simply unforgettable, whether you like it or would rather lump it.

But unlike the Sportback, a five-door hatchback configuration, the Concept X showcases the next-generation Lancer sedan body style, an important model within the North

Built upon the design theme introduced by the Sportback Concept, Mitsubishi has created a face thats simply unforgettable. (Photo: Mitsubishi Cars North America)

American market, where hatchbacks have yet reached the same popularity as in Europe or Japan. With narrowing LED tail lamps and a high but rounded trunk lid, the cars rear end is similar in design to a compact Alfa Romeo or a Seat (Volkswagens Spanish brand), while chrome accents on the window line give it a sense of class; something the previous Lancer lacked.
The fact that the Sportback Concept is so cool that its launch could have been accompanied by the theme song from Shaft says

A new rear spoiler with a varying inner edge for better downforce, as well as a modified rear diffuser which adds yet more downforce, complete the fully functional appearance package. (Photo: Mitsubishi Cars North America)

it all, but trendsetter or not, when it comes to performance machines Mitsubishi never allows form to take precedence over function; its ultra-mean appearance is a mere by-product of applied aerodynamic principles and component cooling techniques. The changes made from Sportback concept to Concept X include additional scoops and vents on the hood and front valance for better airflow to the intercooler, engine and brakes, a new rear spoiler with a varying inner edge for better downforce, as well as a modified rear diffuser which adds more downforce. Together,

The new car, which rides on a chassis architecture developed in conjunction with DaimlerChrysler, features McPherson struts up front and a multi-link rear axle. (Photo: Mitsubishi Cars North America)

with narrow, snake-like LED-HID headlamps, a vicious looking front grille and ultra-wide fenders, these changes seal the Concept Xs intimidating visual package.

To keep weight down, a significant number of the components used in the structure and panels are made of lightweight aluminum. Amongst these are the roof, the hood, the trunk lid, fenders and door panels. Aside from reducing the weight of the car, they also help to reduce the vehicles center of gravity which promotes better handling - something that EVO enthusiasts cant seem to get enough of.

The new car, which rides on a chassis architecture developed in conjunction with DaimlerChrysler, features

The Concept X includes a multi-valve, dual overhead cam engine, with MIVEC variable valve timing and a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver crushing performance regardless of engine speed or gear. (Photo: Mitsubishi Cars North America)

McPherson struts up front and a multi-link rear axle. Surprisingly, Mitsubishi claims to have added a new "Roll Control" suspension to this vehicle; details on this system are minimal, but Ive got a hunch it has something to do with active dampers.

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