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Mitsubishi Lancer could return as a hatchback

A new Lancer hatch would borrow styling cues from the e-Evolution concept.

Jon Wong Former editor for CNET Cars
Jon Wong was a reviews editor for CNET Cars. He test drove and wrote about new cars and oversaw coverage of automotive accessories and garage gear. In his spare time, he enjoys track days, caring for his fleet of old Japanese cars and searching for the next one to add to his garage.
Jon Wong
2 min read
Jon Wong/Roadshow

When the next-generation Mitsubishi Lancer arrives, it probably will look a little different from the sedan that was last produced for the 2017 model year. Instead, the Japanese automaker is likely to revive the Lancer name, but as a hatchback or small crossover, AutoExpress reports, citing a conversation with Mitsubishi Chief Operating Officer Trevor Mann.

Taking a well-known nameplate and slapping it onto a different body style isn't exactly new for Mitsubishi, with the Eclipse recently morphing from a coupe and convertible into the Eclipse Cross crossover SUV. For the Lancer, Mann sees the C-segment hatchback class as an enticing option, noting robust global sales numbers and growing interesting in China for the segment. That would put the Lancer up against stiff competition like the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf.

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Some of the e-Evolution's styling cues could end up on the next-gen Lancer.

Jon Wong/Roadshow

If the Lancer does return as a hatchback, it wouldn't be the first time it featured a flip-up rear door, as the previous generation model was offered as a Sportback model.

As for a potential design direction for next Lancer, Mitsubishi chief designer Tsunehiro Kunimoto says the e-Evolution concept uncovered last fall at the Tokyo Motor Show could serve as a good starting point. Depending on how much they soften it for the production vehicle, it could make for an aggressive and distinctive hatch or small crossover.

Mitsubishi e-Evolution SUV concept signals a different type of Evo

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News of the Lancer potentially returning as a smaller hatchback or crossover should serve as a sliver of hope for enthusiasts who have lost the Eclipse and most recently the Lancer Evolution. If Mitsubishi's sales momentum continues with its crossovers, maybe that would pave the way for the Evo's return as a hot hatch to take on the Ford Focus RS, Honda Civic Type R and Volkswagen Golf R.

Watch this: Mitsubishi e-Evolution concept rewrites the meaning of the Evo badge