Mitsubishi Colt

A face-lifted Mitsubishi Colt was unveiled in Paris, including new sporty and low emission variants.

The new Colt is lower and wider, and features a new front grille that Mitsubishi claims makes it look more like the Lancer. The front-end redesign is also said to protect pedestrians better in an impact.

Mitsubishi says the cabin features far more sound proofing, making it quieter, and that the boot is now larger at 1032 litres, up by about 180 litres on the old car.

The existing 74bhp 1.1-litre, 93bhp 1.3-litre and 107bhp 1.5-litre petrol engines will remain, but emissions will be lowered by the launch of a new brand badged 'Clear Tec'.

These cars will feature fuel-saving technology including Stop-Start and regenerative braking, which Mitsubishi says will increase efficiency by up to 10%.

Diesel engines will be dropped from the Colt line-up.

A 147bhp 1.5-litre powered version of the car was also unveiled, called the Colt Ralliart. It has stiffened suspension for sportier ride and handling, and is available in three- and five-door versions, although it's not yet clear if it will go on sale in Britain.

Lancer Sportback
The five-door hatchback will have a 237bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, high-speed twin-clutch gearbox and four-wheel drive.

Styling features include a large grille, an Evo X-style bonnet and 19-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the car's dashboard and door panels are finished in black suede.

Mitsubishi expects the Lancer hatchback to account for 80% of the model's sales in the UK, vying for sales with the Subaru Impreza WRX.

The Prototype-S will be displayed at the Geneva motor show next week, while the Lancer Sportback will go on sale this autumn from around 21,500.