It seems as if it took forever to get here. Enthusiasts have been hearing about the next Lancer Evolution for two years. At the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show the company unveiled a new sedan called Concept X, the first look at the styling of the upcoming Lancer Evolution. It was one of the hits of the show, and it was shown in a number of concept and prototype configurations since then until this year’s L.A. show, where the final version has now shown itself.

With an aggressive shark-fin grille, an integrated air scoop, heat vents, large wheels, strong fender flares and a large rear spoiler, it’s obvious there’s something special about this Lancer.

Under the hood is an all-new 2.0-liter turbocharged and intercooled engine that puts out 291 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. The powerplant gets teamed with either a 5-speed manual transmission or Mitsubishi’s new 6-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST), an automated manual transmission featuring magnesium steering wheel shifter paddles.

Keeping that power on the pavement—or whatever surface ventured upon—is Mitsubishi’s new Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC). S-AWC can adjust drive torque at each wheel by controlling a network of dynamic handling technologies, including an Active Center Differential (ACD) 4-wheel drive, an Active Yaw Control (AYC) rear differential, Active Stability Control (ASC), and an anti-lock brake system (ABS).

To improve handling, the new Lancer Evolution sports a wider track and longer wheelbase than the previous generation. The chassis is considerably stiffer than the previous generation and the roof, hood, front fenders and both the front and rear bumper beams are aluminum for improved weight savings.

Two different version of the Evo will be available when it goes on sale later this year. The GSR gets the 5-speed manual, while the MR is equipped with the TC-SST, Bilstein shock absorbers and Eibach springs, two-piece brake rotors, BBS forged-alloy wheels, HID headlamps and Bluetooth wireless capability.