With its seven seats, the midsize Outlander SUV is being positioned by Mitsubishi as an excellent alternative to a people carrier. The platform is flexible and will feature advanced AWC (All Wheel Control) technologies, proven through Mitsubishi’s racing activities, as well as versions of the so-called “World Engine,” developed with DaimlerChrysler and Hyundai Motor Company.

The SUV enters the European market, initially with a 140-horsepower 2.0-liter diesel and 229 lb-ft of torque, followed by a 2.2-liter common-rail diesel that produces 156 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque at the end of 2007. A 170-horsepower 2.4-liter gasoline engine will also be offered during the fourth quarter of 2007.

The Outlander first went on sale in Japan in 2005 and was designed from the beginning to be adapted for different world markets. As an example, the diesel engine is available, with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) for certain versions and markets. A Rockford Acoustic Design 650-watt 9-speaker premium audio with a 30-GB hard disk drive navigation system and music server, is offered in Europe.

An Outlander V6 Concept was also at the Geneva Motor Show to gauge consumer interest in a gasoline V6 for the European market, as well as the Prototype X, which debuted at the Detroit Auto Show. The Prototype X is described as being 98 percent of what the next-generation Evolution will be and it was announced that the Evolution will debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show this autumn.

Mitsubishi will also launch the Lancer Sport sedan, its new entry in the C-segment in Frankfurt. The Prototype X differs from the standard Lancer in its deeper, gray-colored grille, oversized rear spoiler, underside air diffuser, lightweight wheels, low-profile tires, and Brembo brakes along with a new all-wheel-drive system.

The Prototype X is powered by an all-new aluminum 2.0-liter DOHC MIVEC turbocharged engine that will produce the highest output of any Evolution to date. Automated-manual transmission allows the driver to change manually with paddles located behind the steering wheel.