While everybody is focusing on the all-new Lancer EVO X, Mitsubishi Europe today released official details on the 2008 Lancer Ralliart. Even though Mitsubishi doesn’t clarify in its press release whether the Ralliart will be based on the 4door Lancer or the upcoming 5door hatch version which is expected to be introduced at the Geneva Show, our sources state that in Europe, the Ralliart will be based on the 5door version while in the States, the 4door sedan. (Photo above: 2005 Lancer Concept Sportback)

In both cases however, the Lancer Ralliart will be equipped with a detuned version the EVO X’s new 2.0 litre (Dual Valve VVT) Turbo Engine producing 240 PS coupled with Mitsubishi’s 6-speed Twin Clutch - SST transmission and with a full-time 4WD system with Active Yaw Control and Active Centre Differential. -Continued after the jump

In Europe and unless Mitsubishi decides else wise in terms of pricing, the Lancer Ralliart will compete against the Subaru Impreza WRX, VW Golf GTI, Opel Astra OPC, Honda Civic Type-R, Renault Megane RS etc.

According to Mitsubishi’s European arm, the Lancer Ralliart will feature among other things, an aluminium bonnet panel, Recaro front seats, sports steering wheel with paddle shift and a Ralliart radiator grille.