SPY PICS: Mistubishi confirms Compact Crossover launch date

Mitsubishi has announced its new Compact Crossover will go on sale as early as February next year. Based on the Concept cX first shown in 2007 the new compact SUV will sit below the Outlander in the Japanese brand's range.

But while Japanese customers will be able to buy one in February next year, Australian consumers will have to wait a little while longer. That's because while the project has been given the green light globally, Mitsubishi Australia is still yet to give it is final approval for local introduction. However, that is really only a formality with local spokeswoman Lenore Fletcher telling the Carsales Network the Compact Crossover will most likely arrive before the end of 2010 in Aussie dealerships.

"If and when the program is confirmed, we'd be looking at third quarter next year," Fletcher said.

Details on the car remain (literally) sketchy at the moment with Mitsubishi only releasing this drawing of the car in conjunction with the on sale announcement. What the company did reveal though, was that the car will be based on the global mid-size platform that underpins both the Lancer and Outlander.

Fortunately, our friends at Carparazzi have put together two computer generated images to give a clear picture of what it will look like in the metal.

We've also been able to piece together some under the skin knowledge about the car that emerged the same time as spy shots of a prototype testing in Europe. Power is expected to come from a 2.0-litre petrol engine and a 1.8-litre turbodiesel, driving either the front-wheels or all-wheels depending on spec level.

Mitsubishi also confirmed the Compact Crossover will make its European debut at the Geneva Motor Show early next year.

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