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Mitsubishi's updated its long-serving Shogun, so does the legendary off-roader still cut through the dirt in its latest 4Work commercial guise?
Reputations are hard to come by and easy to lose in the world of 4x4s.For those select few that attain legendary status— Land Rover Defender,Toyota Hilux and original Jeep— there are many more that disappear without note:Tata Safari anyone?
And to the legendary status' group you can add Mitsubishi's Shogun.
Since its launch in 1982 the Shogun has proven itself in the testing conditions of the Paris-Dakar rally and garnered numerous accolades during its continuing evolution.
The latest version brings revisions both inside and out —the company claims 70% of parts are new. Highlights include an updated 3.2-litre Euro-4 engine which is claimed to combine improved economy with reduced emissions, a stiffened body shell and the all-important restyle both front and rear.
Tested here in the company's 4Work commercial guise, the rear seats are removed to increase load capacity and the rear windows are blacked out to satisfy those nice people at HM Revenue and Customs.
Output is 158hp/381Nm for the five-speed manual while the automatic, which sports the same number of cogs, is rated at 168hp/372Nm. That's transmitted through the company's SS4-II transmission,which boasts no less than three 4WD modes.
Changing from rear-wheel drive to 4WD high range is possible at up to 62mph for slippery surfaces or when towing, but when the going gets rougher the 4HLC (4WD high range with locked differential) locks the centre differential with power equally distributed between the axles.
For more extreme conditions there's a third mode.4LLC (4WD low range with locked centre differential).11is maximises low-end power for climbing and descending and, when used in first gear. automatically engages the standard-fit engine brake, which kicks in when loss of traction occurs.
You also get M-ASTC (they do like their abbreviations) which evidently stands for 'stability and traction control'. It regulates braking force to each wheel during cornering to aid stability while traction is controlled to avoid wheel spin.
Standard equipment is impressive for a CV and gives an indication of the type of buyer the Shogun will appeal to. You get ABS with EBD, air-con, an alarm with keyless entry, 17in alloy wheels, electrically powered windows and door mirrors (with heating and folding function), and radio/CD with MP3 facility.
The live-speed manual version as tested here comes in at £19,748; the automatic will set you hack 121,025.
Servicing is off the pace of most modern 4x4s at 9,000 miles, however warranty is three years with unlimited mileage.
Productivity
A 3.2-litre engine in a vehicle this size didn't bode well for fuel economy, but a laden run round the Kent fuel route produced a reasonable 33.1mpg. On its unladen run it delivered 38.5mpg, giving an indication of the usable torque this large-capacity engine develops without having to be revved — ideal for hauling a load up gradients or towing.
Payload is quoted at 580kg which, considering the 1.9m3loadspace, is fair enough.
Access is via a side hinged rear door that opens out to 90°, providing decent access to the cargo area, The floor is covered in grey carpet that looks hard wearing, although it might be prone to water absorption if working out in the rain. Considering the Shogun's off-road credentials a more dirt-resistant floor covering might be advisable.
On the road
The latest generation of 4x4 commercials have improved significantly in terms of overall driveability, with particular focus on enhanced on-road behaviour, making them easier to live with day-to-day. Being able to switch from motorway to moorland without having to significantly adjust your driving style or raise your skill levels is the main appeal of these machines.
However, there's inevitably a compromise to be made between the two terrain types and in the Shogun's case it's definitely biased in favour of off-road.
Its squat dimensions might give the initial impression that it will struggle over more challenging terrain; in fact ground clearance is adequate to tackle more uneven surfaces.This off-road capability is enhanced by the wide track which offers excellent stability when the Mitsubishi is tilted at more extreme angles, whether sideways on a hill (where it can sit at 45' without toppling), or climbing gradients of up to 35°.
The 4WD system works as well as expected, digging in and transferring power to the appropriate wheel without fuss or hesitation. When serious challenges present themselves the clI_LC mode sets you up for maximum tracti on, conquering terrain where many 4x4s would fear to tread, while the generous suspension travel maintains wheel contact at extreme axle angles and avoids crunching the undercarriage.
Helping get the Shogun up those inclines is that gutsy 3.2-litre unit which delivers torque in spades. Unlike other, more modern, units that chase ever increasing power outputs to the detriment of twist action, the Mitsubishi delivers what you need from low-down.
But though the Shogun has undergone a recent update the engine still shows it age when pushed, running out of steam towards the red line and sounding harsh and unrefined at the top end.
At cruising speed it settles down but not enough to allow it a total pass the camshafts emit a vocal background thrum.
Mated to this is a gearshift that also retains some traits from previous models with its loose gates and long throw. It's not a particular problem but could feel tighter in operation.
On the road the Shogun's compliant suspension and lazy power delivery don't give the most dynamic of driving experiences-it needs to be nursed through corners rather than hustled, but it remains composed enough not to become a handful on the limit and the traction control ensures things don't get too out of hand.
Cab comfort
The Mitsubishi's wide track makes room for a wider than average cabin, helping to create a sense of space inside.
There's also plenty of adjustment for the driver's seat, though rear travel is limited by the load area. However, its soft construction and strong lateral support prove welcome when venturing off-road.The steering wheel is also adjustable for both reach and rake and the instrument binnacle, which houses the main dials, includes the 4WD display to show what mode you're in.
The secondary controls are hard to identify on initial contact due to the predominantly black, though admittedly stylish. dashboard.
Previously centrally mounted dials for gradient,compass and the like have been replaced by an LCD that brings up a variety of off-road information at the push of a button, though the traditionalist in us would prefer the previous arrangement.which was easier to read. Storage is adequate with slim door bins, glovebox and central cup-holders joined by a movable central armrest that opens up to house CDs and other trinkets Overall fit and finish has moved up a notch in quality and this is also reflected in the standard of damping that keeps you separated from the action below, along with a reduction inroad roar and wind noise, though it doesn't quite keep out the engine's vocals. in