Autoblog

Apologies to our friends at Carscoop, but we must qualify the details we're about to share with you on the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart because we haven't seen the actual press release for ourselves. Perhaps they're privy to some long-lead info over there, however, that we're not, as the details are specific enough as to sound convincing.

Regardless, Carscoop is reporting that the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart will be a 5-door hatchback model in Europe and be based on the sedan in the U.S. Power will reportedly come from a detuned version of the EVO X's 2.0L turbo-four producing 240 PS, or about 236 horsepower if you want to be stickler about conversions. Surprisingly, the Lancer Ralliart is also pegged to come with Mitsubishi's 6-speed Twin-Clutch SST transmission, a piece of kit only available on the top level Lancer EVO MR. The EVO GSR makes do with a simple 5-speed. Of course, the Ralliart model will also be aided by the same Super-All Wheel Control all-wheel-drive system used by the EVO X, as well Active Yaw Control and Active Center Differential. Other notable features include an aluminum hood, Recaro front seats, a sports steering wheel with paddle shifters and a special Ralliart radiator grille.

If these facts hold true, then the Ralliart will be the weapon used by Mitsubishi to take on the Subaru WRX around the world. In the past, Mitsubishi has allowed the Subaru WRX free reign, choosing to field a much less potent version of the Lancer Ralliart. No more.

UPDATE: Channel4 substantiates the information provided by Carscoop, adding that the Lancer Ralliart will also get rain-sensing wipers, auto xenon headlamps and headlamp washers.

[Source: Carscoop]

Everyone's attention so far has been on the Evo, but the AWD turbocharged terror won't be the only hot Lancer model in Mitsubishi's updated fleet. Previous reports suggested that a cheaper WRX-rival was in the works, complete with a turbocharged engine and AWD configuration, and this latest Ralliart prototype spotted in California's Death Valley seems to back up those reports.

Like the Evo, this test-mule featured a front mounted intercooler, bonnet scoop and dual exhaust pipes, but missing were the widened fenders, imposing rear wing and the blacked-out bumper insert.

During the launch of the new Lancer late last year, one company official revealed that the Ralliart model would be making a return, this time with a greater influence on performance. With the addition of cut-priced performance cars like this and the styling of Subaru's new Impreza range gone sour, Mitsubishi's new Lancer range is poised to become the next cult classic.

[Source: Winding Road]