Mitsubishi Shogun Sport

On sale now, the revised 4x4 benefits from an improved engine line-up and ride-enhancing suspension tweaks. Our car was powered by the latest 168bhp evolution of the 3.0-litre V6 petrol unit, which now meets Euro III emissions regulations. A tax-friendly diesel is also available, in the form of a 2.5-litre six-cylinder turbo delivering 114bhp at 4,000rpm. Despite these improvements, however, the price remains unchanged. Entry-level editions of the Shogun Sport cost £19,000, with our top-of-the-range 3.0-litre V6 weighing in at £24,495. Value for money is further boosted with the addition of electrically folding wing mirrors, while a more secure locking system is a welcome bonus. Electronic brakeforce distribution has also been added to the ABS on Equippe and Elegance models at no extra cost.

But despite the impressive specification, those searching for motorway luxury should remember that the car shares its platform with the popular L200 pick-up. And even though Mitsubishi has improved the springs and dampers on this latest model, the Shogun Sport still falls foul of truck-like driving dynamics. A choppy ride and vague, dead-ahead steering position make cruising a tense experience, while the car picks up every imperfection in the road with an invasive soundtrack of creaks and vibrations.

That said, the Shogun Sport is still a lot of car for the money. Its king-of-the-road ride height means excellent all-round visibility, while the selectable two or four-wheel drive transmission offers genuine off-road potential. The spacious cabin allows four adults to travel in comfort and the generous boot is only let down by an awkward load height. However, the Shogun Sport still offers a decent blend of on and off-road ability, even if certain soft-roader rivals leave it for dead on the open road.

With a replacement due in 2003, this could be the Mitsubishi Shogun Sport's last dance. It's a worthy workhorse that has never shaken off its commercial roots, but these revisions will not prevent the impending trip to the knacker's yard. However, no-cost improvements to both equipment levels and engine line-up are always welcome, and if nothing else they should bridge the gap between this Sport and the next.

At a glance

* Mitsubishi Shogun Sport on sale now, priced from £19,000

* Engines on offer include 3.0-litre petrol and 2.5-litre diesel

* Capable off-roader offers high driving position and roomy cabin

* Road manners spoiled by truck-like driving dynamics