Run for cover: Mitsubishi Evolution FQ-400

Mitsubishi's Evolution range is not something that can be accused of being subtle. With the firm's signature jet fighter nose in full effect, copious air intakes and an aggressive bodykit, the tenth version certainly isn't shy. And, with the 'FQ' badge that precedes the various models, there's proof that someone at Mitsubishi has a twisted sense of humour.

All Evo Xs are genuine Porsche-bothering material, with the combination of all-wheel-drive, agile handling and all those horses (300, 330 and 360) from the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine.

Someone with a better-developed sense of humour than the guys in the naming department decided that 360 horsepower wasn't doing it, and also that the Lancer didn't look quite manly enough.

The result is the FQ-400, a 403bhp (to be precise) variant boasting an even bigger rear wing, a ground effects-style rear bumper, central exit Dyson-esque exhaust, beefy front splitter and the loudest noise this side of a modified car. This is definitely not mainstream.

With all the various add-ons the Evo X's already thrusting, wedge-style profile has been given a massive boost and will absolutely, positively put the fear of God into any unsuspecting driver looking in his rear view mirror. Look past the cosmetic elements and this car offers a level of performance that will have all those Porsche and Ferrari owners seriously worried.

In fact, it's become apparent that some Subaru faithfuls are jumping the fence, as the FQ-400 provides a level of performance and looks no longer offered by Mitsubishi's fiercest rival. And it's easy to see the attraction: the Evo retains the compact saloon shape of the old Impreza and there's a particular rawness to this Lancer's power delivery that's lacking in the more mature five-door Scooby.

Much of the credit for this in-your-face approach should go to WRC Developments in the UK. In collaboration with Mitsubishi, the regular Evolution has been subjected to a thorough reworking. In real terms the result is a sub four-second sprint to 100kph, a near roll-free cornering experience and the ability to cover ground at a pace once reserved for cars costing twice as much as the Lancer's Dh307,000 sticker in the UK.

To reach this level, the standard Evo X has undergone some choice upgrades. It's a tuner's paradise; lowered, fitted with enhanced brakes, widened track, remapped ECU, competition injectors, revised hybrid turbocharger and an increased airflow intercooler. And remember, this is on top of the car's active centre differential and active yaw and stability control electronics.

The end result is nothing short of jaw-dropping. Like the car's exterior, it takes a while to adjust to your new circumstances. Overtaking opportunities suddenly appear from nowhere, straight roads shrink in length, corners can be attacked with a newfound level of confidence, while the stopping power of the huge brakes is enough to lift you out of your seat.

Ballistic yet manageable, the FQ-400 forces you to think differently about performance motoring. What makes the Evo X experience less intimidating than it should be is the way you can gradually work up to its Porsche-bothering potential in stages. That breathed on engine possesses so much torque that gear changes aren't required every few seconds, making the five-speed manual gearbox more than adequate, while the direct yet weighty steering gives you all the feedback and control you'll need.

And the FQ-400 has genuine daily driver potential. The torquey engine and precise gearshift make pottering around town a doddle. Yes, really; this 400 horsepower rally-replica monster won't bite when taken to the shops. It might pop, bang and rumble a fair bit and the boot is extremely small, but it's far less stressful than guiding your Lamborghini-shaped missile to the supermarket.

Thanks to the interesting cut of its performance-orientated tyres, it's happiest when driven in dry conditions - so perfect for the Middle East - as it's then you'll get to experience the physics-bending levels of grip and cornering ability. It might be a pussycat around town but it's also a full-blown performance tool - you even get PIAA-branded wipers and headlights.

If the current crop of performance saloons lacks character and the predictable choice of super-coupés don't impress because you don't want to sacrifice practicality, this Evo X FQ-400 could be a semi-sensible alternative. With a likely double-digit production, it won't be around forever, but that's also true if you attempt to follow one.

Fun and practicality with a hooligan streak, the FQ-400 is one mean Mitsu, and one without a direct rival.