First look: Mitsu sketches all-new Lancer

MITSUBISHI is laying the groundwork for an aggressive new styling direction, judging by the first sketches of its latest concept car, the Concept-Sportback.

Set to make its world debut at September’s Frankfurt motor show, the Sportback points to the direction of the next-generation Lancer small car.

The Sportback unveiling will be joined by the launch of the European version of the high-performance 2.0-litre turbocharged Lancer Evolution IX all-wheel drive car.

The Japanese-based company says the Concept-Sportback gives the first indications of its vision for its next-generation of C-segment cars and debuts its post-Olivier Boulay design inspiration for a new European five-door sports hatchback.

This design direction is readily apparent in the concept’s exterior, which features a sporty wedgelike profile, sharply chiselled lines, an assertive stance borne from a long wheelbase and wide front and rear tracks, and an expressive high-shouldered rear-end.

The Sportback also introduces a new Mitsubishi Motors-developed platform, which will be shared with the Dodge Caliber and two Jeep crossover vehicles also understood to be in development.

Mitsubishi claims the new platform is "of strategic importance" and flexible enough to accommodate a wide range of derivatives.

As a result, it is expected to spawn a range of new models over the next three years from 4WDs to small hatchbacks.

Mitsubishi will continue its 2005 model drive with the introduction of a diesel-powered Grandis and a new Colt coupe-cabriolet to European markets later this year.