Tozer added that the Sportback and other European products could make it to

The Sportback will share underpinnings with the upcoming Dodge Caliber. (Photo: Mitsubishi Motors North America)

North America.

"I'm sure what you start to see in Europe will be sold in North America, and likewise. That's the strategy," Tozer said. "My guess is that if something like this works in Europe, it could work in North America."

The Sportback will share underpinnings with the upcoming Dodge Caliber, as well as Jeep's new Compass and Patriot if built, while itsdrivetrain will feature the new Mitsubishi, Chrysler, Hyundai four-cylinder engine lineup already announced for Caliber production.

If you didn't get a chance to read the news story on this subject (see the automotive news section for August 19, 2005: Upcoming Dodge Caliber tooffer Competitive Drivetrain Options), the Caliber will get a 140-horsepower, 1.8-litre inline-four in base trim, as well as the option of a 150-horsepower, 2.0-litre inline-four. A 2.4-litre four-cylinder

Its drivetrain will feature the new Mitsubishi, Chrysler, Hyundai four-cylinder engine lineup already announced for Dodge Caliber production.. (Photo: Mitsubishi Motors North America)

with 170-horsepower will top out the range. DaimlerChrysler says that the new engines consume five percent less fuel than equivalently sized four cylinder models from rival manufacturers, so this should bode well for the Mitsubishi variants. Of course, European models will get diesel power, and something turbocharged to replace the SRT-4 will be created to pull in the sport compact crowd. Whether or not Dodge's quickest Caliber will be any match for the superb Mitsubishi EVO IX, or what is expected to be an even more accomplished EVO X, is difficult to say. Currently that model sports a 286-horsepower 2.4-litre four-cylinder with MIVEC, variable-valve timing (and more) enhancements.

What's it like on the inside? You're going to have to use your imagination when it comes to that, because this concept barely made the Frankfurt show according to a Mitsubishi spokesperson, and the interior isn't finished. Suffice to say, if its cabin appears anywhere near as good as that in the new Eclipse, and its fit, finish and materials quality is comparible, no one will complain.