MITSUBISHI Motors is pleased to announce that it will launch the new Lancer Evolution VIII MR in April next year with pricing starting at £27,999 for the standard 280 model. Mitsubishi Motors UK will, of course, offer FQ-300 and FQ-330 models for those customers who still want that little bit extra under the bonnet. This isn't the only Evolution news. Joining the range in April will also be a new Evolution VIII, available for just £23,999 on the road. Called the Lancer Evolution VIII 260, this model will really take the flight to Subaru's doorstep and is expected to help double Evolution sales during 2004.

Making its debut at the 2003 Tokyo Motor Show in October, this new model has been dubbed the Lancer Evolution VIII MR, taking the MR (Mitsubishi Racing) designation traditionally reserved for Mitsubishi Motors high-performance models and used first on the Galant GTO. The Lancer Evolution VIII MR boasts improved road holding by exploiting to maximum advantage the advanced features of Mitsubishi's own 4WD control system and using the exclusively configured slick-response Bilstein suspension.

Forged alloy road wheels reduce the unsprung weight, while the centre of gravity has been lowered by the use of aluminium for the roof panel and weight reductions to the upper half of the body. Detail improvements to the electronic 4WD system, to the ACD (Active Centre Differential) + Super AYC (Active Yaw Control) handling systems, together with the Evolution's now lighter suspension achieve an unprecedented degree of quality in handling characteristics. The engine benefits from improved redline performance and has been tuned for competition use with emphasis on power output in the mid-to-high speed bands.

Exterior and interior trim elements enhancing Lancer Evolution VIII MR's premium-value image include Recaro full-bucket front seats with mono-tone suede leather, carbon-finish dashboard.