|  The Mitsubishi Prototype X revealed at the 2007 Detroit Motor Show was a preview of the styling which will feature on the 10th generation of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution.
Although clearly based on the new Lancer and sharing its distinctive shark-nose grille opening, the Mitsubishi Prototype X features a unique front end, rear fenders and decklid. The Prototype X looks the part with its boxed fenders, aggressively sloping hood with integral air scoop, 20-inch alloy wheels with massive brakes and the high-tech LED turn signals in the sideview mirrors.
Inside the Mitsubishi Prototype X are deeply contoured bucket seats upholstered in high-grip Alcantara. An electronic lap counter hints at the car's weekend club racer capability. The technology featured in the Mitsubishi Prototype X previews what will be available for the next Lancer Evolution. While not all design features and content seen on Prototype X will make it to the production vehicle, the overall design will carry through.
The engine powering Prototype X - and the next Lancer Evolution - is a turbocharged version of the new aluminum 4B11 2.0-liter DOHC MIVEC engine used in the 2008 Lancer. It will yield the highest power rating ever in an Evolution model. (Since development continues, final engine output figures will be revealed at a later date.) Significantly, the newest Lancer Evolution will have less differentiation from market to market than the previous generations.
The new model's aluminum engine block is a significant 20 kg (53.4 lbs.) lighter than the iron-block 4G63 engine used in all previous Evolution models, which aids weight distribution. In addition, its orientation (exhaust located on bulkhead side) allows for improved placement that helps to lower the center of gravity. Although the new Evolution engine block is lighter, it was designed from the outset for high-performance turbocharged applications. High inherent strength has been achieved partly through over-engineering of the open deck block, and the use of large water jackets and metal areas around each siamesed cylinder bore. The reciprocating assembly of the turbocharged 4B11 is capable of withstanding high levels of boost.
Prototype X is equipped with the automated manual transmission with magnesium steering wheel paddle shifters that will be available on the next Lancer Evolution. This new transmission will offer lightning fast, paddle-shift actuated shifting when desired, along with offering a fully automatic mode. This unit is not a conventional torque-converter automatic transmission, but rather a true auto-capable manual similar to that used on some of the world's most notable performance models. For stick shift purists, the next Lancer Evolution will still offer a conventional 5-speed manual transmission. With the 4B11 turbo engine's stronger torque performance, a 5-speed will provide optimal acceleration response.
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