Joining the new Mitsubishi Lancer sedan in European showrooms later this year is the brand new Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback. The hatchback version of the Lancer, seen earlier as the Prototype S, will make its official show debut at the upcoming Paris Motor Show this October.

Power in the Sportback comes from either a 1.5 liter 109 hp or 1.8 liter 143 hp gasoline engine or a 2.0 liter 140 hp diesel powerplant, coupled to the Twin Clutch SST (Sport Shift Transmission). Mitsubishi's new diesel engine will join the range in the Spring of 2009. The Lancer Sportback joins in a highly competitive hatchback segment. The Sportback will also feature a new 'auto folding function' to maximize cargo space through a height adjustable rear floor and rear seats that can be tipped forward.

Mitsubishi will also display their new Lancer Ralliart and Lancer Sportback Ralliart models, which are positioned between the base Lancer and the top-end Lancer Evolution. The Ralliart models are driven by a new turbocharged 2.0 liter, 4 cylinder DOHC MIVEC engine producing 240 hp (177 kW) and 343 Nm of torque. The more powerful engine is also mated to Mitsubishi's Twin Clutch SST transmission but with an added Active Center Differential for more responsive steering.