First look: Mitsu reveals all-new Lancer sedan

WE SAW the sketch last month and now Mitsubishi has revealed the first official photographs of its new-generation Lancer sedan ahead of its world debut at the Detroit motor show in January.

The mainstream sedan model pictured here is due on sale in Australia in June, with the high-performance Evolution X sports flagship expected here early in 2008 and the five-door hatchback due by around October 2008.

Built on the new "project global" platform that also underpins vehicles from project partners DaimlerChrysler and PSA Peugoet Citroen, the Lancer has grown slightly and now measures 4570mm in overall length, 1490mm in height and 1760mm in width. The all-new body rests on a 2635mm wheelbase.

The same platform (dubbed GS by Mitsubishi and JS by DaimlerChrysler, whose Dodge Caliber gave us our first taste of the joint-venture vehicle architecture) underpins Mitsubishi's new ZG Outlander SUV. Next year's Chrysler Sebring, Dodge Avenger and Jeep Compass/Patriot SUVs will also be based on JS hardware.

In Europe, the new Lancer will be split into four powertrain levels – entry, mid-range, upper-range and supercar – and will be powered by five different engines, including the Volkswagen-built 2.0-litre common-rail turbo-diesel that already sees duty overseas in the Grandis Di-D and Outlander Di-D.

Australian details are still to be announced, but while it's unlikely Europe's 81kW 1.5-litre petrol engine will eventuate here, expect the Evo to be powered by a high-performance 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol four.

Like the 2005 Concept X and Concept Sportback showcars, the Lancer sedan is said to be a product of design studios in both Europe and Japan, featuring "low stance, long hood/short deck proportions, wide track, trademark ‘shark nose’ and distinctively deep set ‘eyes’".