Mitsubishi Motors UK has taken the wraps off what it claims is the fastest saloon car ever produced by a major manufacturer.

Built to celebrate the thirtieth anniversary of Mitsubishi’s entry into the UK market, the new Lancer Evolution VIII MR FQ-400 (pictured) will be built in a limited edition run of just 100 cars, and is available to order now priced £46,999.

The car was the brainchild of Mitsubishi Motors UK’s sales and marketing director, Lance Bradley. ‘The new Lancer Evolution VIII MR FQ-400 is the ultimate expression of who and what we are as a brand. This is a versatile four-door saloon that can out accelerate supercars costing almost ten times as much,’ he says.

The new model is based on the Lancer Evolution VIII MR FQ-320 and was developed in the UK by Mitsubishi Motors UK’s motor sports department, in association with tuning specialists Rampage, Owen Developments and Flow Race Engines. Together, they modified the Lancer’s legendary 2.0-litre turbocharged engine so that it now produces a 405bhp and 355lb-ft of torque.

This is enough to propel the FQ-400 from 0-60mph in an incredible 3.5 seconds and on to a top speed in excess of 175mph. This compares to the Porsche Carrera GT that requires 3.9 seconds to sprint from 0-62mph, while the Pagani Zonda needs 3.7 seconds. The BMW M3 takes 5.3 seconds.

Inside, the sporting theme continues with a Momo steering wheel and Recaro bucket seats. The fascia has carbon fibre detailing and there’s a discreet plaque next to the gearstick, which reveals the car’s production number. The ambience is purposeful but the FQ-400 is no stripped out road racer. Electric windows and mirrors and climate control are all fitted as standard, highlighting the Lancer’s appeal as the world’s most practical and versatile supercar.

The FQ-400 has undergone extensive reliability testing and is supplied with a three years/36,000 mile manufacturer’s warranty. This exciting flagship can be ordered now from approved Mitsubishi Ralliart dealers.