Mitsubishi 4x4. - The Shogun.

The Shogun range has long been established as 'genuine' 4x4 motors. They have the rugged build and drive capabilities to perform in the most demanding conditions on or off road, yet combine the styling of a luxury car. The latest range of Shoguns from the Mitsubishi stable - The fourth generation of Shoguns - are no exception; with several models to choose from in either the short (Swb) or long wheel base (Lwb) versions.

Reliability is taken for granted with the Mitsubishi 4x4s - rightly so! Together with this, safety has always been an important aspect of the Shogun way. And, in addition to this, there is a fantastic warranty that comes as standard (No hidden extras).

Warranty

All of the models in the Shogun 4x4 range is provided with a three year unlimited mileage. Add to this, the fact that there is a twelve year anti-corrosion warranty and a further three year European breakdown and recovery service!

Range

The two basic ranges of short or long wheel base configurations, are split into 6 different 'models' - all with the 3.2 DI-DC Diesel engine. A top speed of around 110 mph combined with average fuel consumption of 30 mpg, makes the Shogun 4x4 a big time player in the big car stakes.

Safety Features as Standard

ABS with EBD
Airbag, front passenger deactivation switch
Airbag SRS, curtain type, 1st and 2nd row
Airbag SRS, dual
Disc brakes, ventilated, front and rear
Door ajar warning lamp
High-mount stop lamp, rear
ISO-Fix child seat mountings, 2nd row
Mitsubishi Active Stability & Traction Control
Seatbelt, 3-point ELR x 3, second row
Seatbelt fastening warning lamp
Steering column, collapsible and tilt adjustable

Reading through the various test reports for the Mitsubishi Shogun 4x4, it seems that

Inside the cab

The driver's seat could be a little too short, but with good adjustments otherwise.
Steering wheel adjusts for height only - no pull and push!
Dash is well laid out and clearly visible
Space inside the cab does not reflect the huge size of the motor in general, and it seems that the rear seat passengers could suffer a little discomfort with the higher floor level = legs hunched up a bit, but >>
this is compensated for by having a good 'third row' of seats, and huge boot storage - especially when in 5-seater mode.
Great safety aspects with air bags all round - for driver and passengers.

On the Road

Has been quoted as not having enough power from the 3.2 Diesel engine on offer, but then do you really need to keep up with the Range Rover just gone past?
Great Auto box which 'slips' from one drive to the other.
Weight of the car tends to pull it over (roll) on tight bends, and the Shogun reflects is basic proper 4x4 'roots' with a ride that is perhaps not as smooth as some saloon cars. Hey, now we are getting really picky!

Conclusions

Some of the best shows and films I have ever seen have been slated by the critics. The same is true of many things in life. Mitsubishi are superb at customer relations, and they offer all the pre-purchase niceties to lure potential buyers. Take advantage of the Mitsubishi hospitality and go test drive a Mitsubishi Shogun for yourself. Not too many people change over from Mitsubishi Shoguns once they have made the move!

List price for the basic '3.2 DI-DC Equippe Manual' is stated as FROM £22,649.00 List Price