British Mitsubishi enthusiasts can look forward to a triple boost next Spring when they will be offered the new Evo VIII one year earlier than European customers, at a price significantly below the current legendary Evo VII, and with dramatically improved availability.

The next incarnation of Mitsubishi's 'hero car', with resculpted, more aggressive front-end styling, a six-speed, close-ratio gearbox and revised interior is scheduled to make its UK and European debut at the Autosport International Racing Car Show on January 9 at the NEC.

As an additional thank you to loyal UK Evo fans the Colt Car Company will supply 285-horsepower 'full house' versions of the saloon super-car as standard. Although the price will not be finalised until nearer the launch date, the company is aiming at least £2,000 less than the current £29,995 model.

By securing a potential annual allocation of 900 Evo VIII's for drivers in Britain, the strongest Evo market outside Germany, Mitsubishi Motors in the UK is determined to keep the high-performance icon 'in house' and eliminate problems for customers inherent in buying through grey importers.

As with the Evo VII an ultra high-performance FQ package, with enhanced engine breathing through exhaust tuning, will be available to boost power to over 300-horsepower.