Preview: 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

ON SALE: FEBRUARY / $30,000 (est.)

The all-new Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is one of the most talked-about cars of the year. We'll soon drive it at Mitsubishi's development racetrack in Japan, but for now the automaker is being tight-lipped with information on its hottest model. We do know that the Evo will use a new, turbocharged four-cylinder engine that puts out about 300 hp. A dual-clutch automatic - dubbed SST (sport shift transmission) - will be available in place of the standard manual gearbox. And for the first time in the States, Mitsubishi will offer its active yaw control (AYC) rear differential, which allows the Evo to transfer power between its two rear wheels for increased traction and stability. In case you get it all wrong trying a Scandinavian flick in the Wal-Mart parking lot, the Evo now has stability control. With Subaru soon to release an STI version of its new Impreza WRX, we're itching for a rematch of the two Japanese rally-car replicas.