Straightline

What you see here is the Mitsubishi Prototype S, with the "S" standing for "Sportback." If you remember, Mitsubishi showed a Sportback concept (middle picture) before.

Remember? How could you forget, as that concept was drop-dead gorgeous!

Unfortunately, as concepts move from "concept" to "production," often something gets lost in the translation, as is the case here. While still not a full-bore production model, the Prototype S shows where Mitsubishi is headed, which is a real letdown after seeing the original Sportback concept. Not saying this is ugly; but it's certainly not the jaw-dropper that they showed earlier. On the plus side, the cargo area looks to be very spacious, much more so than the Impreza 5-door.

As to running gear, it's equipped with the same 236 hp 2.0L turbo, and AWD that's to be found in their upcoming WRX-fighter, the Ralliart sedan.

Full story here.

Here's Inside Line's take: 2008 Geneva Auto Show Preview: Mitsubishi Prototype-S