Prototype-S Heralds Next Lancer

Finished in tonic metallic orange, the Prototype-S resembles a custom show-car version of the Lancer Sportback 5-door hatchback that will join the Lancer Sports Sedan for the European market.

Just as the Prototype-X was a nearly production-ready example of the Lancer Sports Sedan, the Prototype-S represents what buyers can expect when the 5-door Lancer Sportback goes on sale.

Building on the excitement generated by the Lancer Evolution, the Prototype-S delivers many of the same elements in a more practical and useful package by adding the rear hatchback door and flexible rear seating configuration.

In execution, the Prototype-S builds on the Concept-Sportback first seen at the 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show and adds the mechanical components of the Lancer Ralliart including the 240-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, Twin-Clutch SST gearbox, full-time 4-wheel drive and Mitsubishi's Active Center Differential.

Added for practicality, the hatchback design actually changes the profile dramatically, creating a wedge-shaped silhouette accentuated by the rear roof spoiler that signals the performance potential of the Prototype-S along with the split 5-spoke 19-inch alloy wheels.

With a strong resemblance to the Lancer Evolution at the front, the Prototype-S features a further variation of the Evo's "Jet Fighter" grille with a full matte black finish, mesh inserts and chrome surround. The lower air intakes at each side of the grille incorporate boomerang-shaped fog lights and the headlights have a unique shape.

The design at the rear follows the Concept-Sportback with a fast angle to the liftgate and long rear combination lights that accentuate the wide stance.

The interior colors and materials have the feel of a classic European sports car with the Recaro sport seats covered in light-brown leather that is perforated, smooth and weaved for different surfaces. Other classic sports car elements include a black suede finish for the upper dash and door panels with twin hoods over the orange-lit instruments.