The Powershot G1 X, which adopts the same naming convention as Canon's new EOS-1D X digital SLR, packs a 18.7x14mm CMOS sensor - representing a significant boost from the G12 7.44x5.58mm CCD sensor, but still short of Canon's usual DSLR sensors (22.2x14.8mm). The sensor is said to offer the same pixel size and structure as Canon's EOS 600D DSLR.

"The increased sensor size allows photographers to have greater control over the depth of field, with increased potential to creatively and artistically isolate a subject from its background," says Canon. "Improved dynamic range enables users to accurately capture shadows and highlights within the same frame, while the 14.3 Megapixel resolution allows for the output of large-sized prints, or permits images to be cropped for more powerful compositions."

The G1 X features the Digic 5 image processing engine, which, combined with the camera's larger sensor, offers improved low-light performance, with a maximum full-resolution ISO range of 100 to 12800.

The lens offers a 4x optical zoom range equivalent to 28mm to 122mm. It sports a six-blade aperture and comes with an in-built three-stop Neutral Density filter, "permitting the use of wider apertures in bright light to achieve a shallower depth of field," claims Canon.

The G1 X offers a four-stop optical Image Stabilizer, as well as "extensive" manual controls. It shoots images a burst rate of 4.5fps, and can record full HD movies at 24fps via a dedicated movie button.

The G series continues to offer a vari-angle LCD screen, but now includes a pop-up flash instead of the G12 integrated flash.

The PowerShot G1 X will be available from late February, priced at £699 and €799.