Mitsubishi will be adding a new AWD turbo model based on the new Lancer sedan pictured above early next year. The new car will be positioned below the potent EVO model and aimed directly at arch rival Subaru's WRX Impreza. The latest tidbit of info comes from an interview with Mitsubishi Australia boss Robert McEniry and published in Drive. The move is to build up the rest of the lancer range by returning to the model’s roots. Mitsubishi released a turbo AWD Lancer GSR back in 1991, three years before the introduction of the WRX.

Small affordable turbo models have leapt in popularity in recent years, with models coming from the likes of Ford, Volkswagen, Mazda and Renault, just to name a few. Mitsubishi would now like to tap into the segment. The new car will be called the Ralliart Lancer in Australian markets and will be powered by a detuned version of the 2.0L four-cylinder mill that will feature in the EVO. The electronic AWD system will be similar to that used in the EVO as well but will miss out on brake control and active suspension and steering systems.

A new hatch model will be launched towards the end of next year alongside a larger displacement 2.4L version. The current wagon model will be dropped from Mitsu’s lineup. There’s no word on what name the car will get in other markets or when it will be released.