Mitsubishi Shogun 3.2 DI-DC SG4 Auto 5dr Car Review - February 2012

The car’s handling is superb in an off-road scenario, but fails to impress on the road. The SG4 feels awkward through bends, and there is a large amount of body-lean. The ride is way too bouncy on the road. The diesel engine is also very rattly and unrefined and there is a lot of wind and road noise at high speeds thanks to the SG4's poor aerodynamics and chunky off-road tyres.

The SG4 is outstanding off-road thanks to the massive amount of pulling-power provided by the 3.2 litre diesel engine. A low-range gearbox and locking differentials also mean that the SG4 performs admirably when the going gets tough.

The SG4’s 3.2 litre 16v diesel engine produces 197bhp at 3800 rpm and a colossal 325 lb-ft of torque. This translates into a top speed of 111 mph, while 0-62 mph arrives in 10.4 seconds.

There is suitable adjustment in the driver's seat for most people to find comfort. However, the steering wheel adjusts for height only, not reach. The dashboard is well-laid out and the controls are easy to reach. All-round visibility is excellent.

The SG4 has a striking exterior and has a commanding on-road presence thanks to its sheer size.

Inside the cabin, the materials are solid and built to last. All Shoguns have alloys, climate control, MP3-compatible CD player, electric windows and mirrors and keyless entry. The car also has heated seats, cruise control and heated mirrors, rear parking camera, leather seats and sat-nav. Metallic paint, however, is an optional extra at £540.

The SG4 is one of the biggest cars in its class. There is loads of headroom and legroom in the rear. The car is equipped with seven seats but the third row is only really suitable for children. These seats fold away when they are not needed leaving plenty of space in the boot. The boot is an impressive size at 1790-litres.

In terms of safety equipment, the SG4 comes with stability control, and front, side and curtain airbags as standard. The anti-lock brakes come with electronic brakeforce distribution to give more stable stopping power.

All models feature keyless entry, plus an alarm and immobiliser to deter thieves. Reliability should not be an issue as the SG4 is built like a tank and Mitsubishi have an enviable reputation for producing cars that last and last.

The SG4 is priced at £40,999 which is pricey in comparison to the other cars in the range but it does come with a high level of standard equipment.

The Shogun's fuel economy is actually pretty reasonable for a car of its size - achieving 34.4mpg on the combined cycle. However, CO2 emissions are pretty hefty at 216g/km, putting the Shogun SG4 into VED band K. The SG4 falls under insurance group 29, making premiums relatively pricey, although reasonable by class standards.