2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X Prototype

X is Roman for ten. But we'd like to think it denotes and X rating--for the meanest, rawest Evo ever made. This future rally rocket was first previewed by the Concept X from last year's Tokyo auto show, and now a closer version is being shown here at Detroit. When the car goes on sale around this time next year, power will continue to come from a 2.0-liter turbo four, but output will push past the current Subaru WRX STI's 300-hp rating and a new, aluminum block will be used. Because it would be a shame not to use the new Outlander SUV's lovely magnesium-alloy paddle shifters, an automated manual transmission will be offered alongside a traditional 5-speed manual box. Naturally, the Evo will be driven by all four wheels, via a new S-AWC (Super All-Wheel Control) system that Mitsubishi promises will rival Honda's SH-AWD in sophistication. The new system will feature active steering, active yaw control, and myriad electronic sensors. We hope S-AWC doesn't compromise the great steering possessed by Evos VIII and IX--after all, Mitsubishi promises this will be the "largest leap in overall capability between two generations of the Evolution."