MITSUBISH'S famed rally-inspired Evolution Lancer generation reaches its ninth and final incarnation next month - and the Japanese brand plans to go out on a high note.

Originally unveiled as the Evo I in 1992, the breathed-on Lancer road cars have established a reputation as an everyday supercar but now Mitsubishi has announced that a very different Lancer Evolution will be launched in 2007.

But before then Mitsubishi is planning a last hurrah with the Evo IX, which goes on sale here on June 1.

A logical development of the special edition Evolution VIII MR, the Lancer Evolution IX combines a series of detail improvements - with an unchanged price tag.

The rally-bred lines of the Lancer Evolution are instantly familiar, but 'Evo spotters' will notice a number of subtle revisions.

A redesigned front bumper echoes the style of Mitsubishi's latest World Rally Car and incorporates additional cooling ducts. At the rear, the new bumper features a diffuser for improved aerodynamics, while the new-design five-spoke Enkei alloy wheels help to reduce the unsprung mass of the car and improve the handling.

Inside, the simple, driver-focussed fascia is retained and so are the Recaro sports seats and Momo steering wheel.

Air-conditioning, electric windows, four airbags and CAT-1 alarm are standard on every model, while the FQ-340 adds SmartNav satellite navigation and leather/Alcantara seats.

The most significant change on the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX is the introduction of MIVEC variable valve timing technology, which improves the engine's efficiency throughout the rev range.

Increased performance at high engine speeds is accompanied by a three per cent improvement in fuel economy and exhaust emissions.

Three versions of the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine will be offered in the UK.

The FQ-300 produces 305bhp at 6,950rpm, while revisions to the engine's air supply increase the output of the FQ-320 to 326bhp at 6,700rpm.

With the aid of a supplementary ECU, the flagship FQ-340 develops 345bhp at 6,800rpm - enough to propel it from zero to 62mph in 4.3 seconds and on to 157mph.

The Bilstein suspension system introduced on the Lancer Evolution VIII MR is retained for the IX, with the exception of the rear springs, which are shorter than before. This lowers the car slightly, improving rear-end stability and enabling the Lancer's electronically-controlled 4WD system to function more effectively.

The three UK-specific models will be the FQ-300 (£27,999), FQ-320 (£29,999) and FQ-340 (£32,999).