Mitsubishi Shogun Sport

Slotting into a gap in the 4x4 market which the Shogun has priced itself out of (£20,000 to £25,000) the Shogun Sport is a surprisingly appealing way into the Shogun brand name. While it may lack the sophistication of its more expensive brother, it is a fine machine on the road. There are few off-roaders that can be driven with such gusto; the ride is firm as a compromise, but for a large vehicle it's exceptionally controllable, in the mud too it's a seriously capable machine.

There's two engines available, a 2.5-litre turbo diesel or a 3.0-litre V6; both choices being recently revised to improve power and emissions while offering ample performance for the able 4x4. Inside though it's a bit of a let down. While there is sufficient space for five people, the lack of storage space is disappointing. The good-sized boot suffers from an overly high loading edge too. The dashboard is typically Japanese, plain, plain, plain, but you can't complain about the way it is built. Benefiting from a three-year, unlimited mileage warranty as standard the Shogun Sport offers much when it comes to everyday driving.