The Detroit Auto Show doesn't open to the public for another month, but Mitsubishi released the first official photo today of the new 2008 Lancer. The styling looks very much like a slightly toned down version of the 2005 Concept-X that's been on the auto show circuit for the past year. The proportions of the new Lancer definitely look better balanced than the base versions of the previous model which always seemed a bit top heavy and under-tired. The bulging fenders of the previous generation EVO addressed much of that, but even the version shown of the new car is attractive.

The new Lancer is, as usual larger than it's predecessor, with a wheel base and body about 1.5 inches longer, and a width increased by 2.5 inches. The power-train consists of a new 2.0L low emission four cylinder engine with variable valve timing. The engine is connected to a 6 speed CVT that will have steering wheel mounted paddle shifters on some models. The press release and a photo of the Concept-X are after the jump.

[Source: Mitsubishi]