UK MITSUBISHI fans have had their first glimpse of the new Lancer Evolution X.

The model, intended for the Japanese market, is the tenth version of Mitsubishi's Lancer Evolution which has earned cult status and gives strong clues to how the UK version will look when it goes on sale next year.

Potential customers will get to see the European Evolution model debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September this year. The UK spec version is expected to go on sale in March 2008.

The rally derived model features Mitsubishi's S-AWC2 traction and handling system, which integrates the drive torque, braking management and four-wheel drive system to offer safe, intuitive handling at speed.

Powered by a new lightweight and high-performance two-litre turbocharged MIVEC3 engine with aluminium block and a six-speed automated manual transmission, Mitsubishi claims fuel economy will be improved over the outgoing model.

The new Lancer, named Galant Fortis in Japan, was also unveiled at the press conference.

A European four-door model will debut at Frankfurt Motor Show alongside the European Evo and will go on sale in the UK in March 2008.