MITSUBISHI Motors UK has confirmed that the multi-award winning Mitsubishi 'i' minicar will go on sale in the UK on July 1, with one model to be launched, priced at £8,999.

The rear-engined, four-seater 'i' ,' a play on ai, the Japanese word for love, has already achieved cult status in Japan where it has proved both a critical and commercial success due to its futuristic styling, agile handling, clever use of interior space and comfortable ride.

More than 37,000 were sold in Japan during 2006 and a string of automotive and design awards culminated in the 'i' being named "RJC Car of the Year" by the Automotive Researchers & Journalists of Japan (RJC). Critics and customers alike have been seduced by the efficiency of the car's 64 horsepower, 660cc turbo engine.

Jim Tyrrell, managing director of Mitsubishi Motors UK said: "We displayed the 'i' at Badminton Horse Trials, the British Motor Show and at a number of key dealerships around the country and the public reaction was wholly positive.

"The 'i' has already become a cult car in Japan and we're confident that its space and sophistication, coupled with Mitsubishi's reputation for quality and reliability, will also make it a hit in the UK."

The 'i' will be sold through selected Mitsubishi dealers with 300 initially available in the UK. With deposits already being placed, the 'i' may well have already attracted a small following of its own here in the UK.

Standard equipment will include automatic transmission, climate control, a six-speaker stereo with CD player, front and rear electric windows.