They made major strides with this. They worked some significant improvements with the latest version which has turned it into a real contender for your money on the market. It shares some of the same underpinnings as a Lancer, it performs both on and off-road, and is one of the most economical cars in the Mitsubishi brand. Yet it has the practicality of an MPV. Seven seats come as standard, with plenty of leg/head room, and a decent load space. There’s also a good level of standard kit and safety features on board. The Outlander is a competent drive. It handles well, the ride quality is smooth and comfortable, and the steering is sharp with plenty feedback. When it goes off-road, it shows what the technology can do. The torquey engines and the smooth ride combine to keep you comfortable and moving over the bumpiest terrain.

•  Check the under-carriage for any possible off-road damage

•  Practicality levels are high; seven seats are standard; huge load space

•  Much improved in terms of CO2 emissions and fuel economy

•  It is a good drive both on and off-road

•  There’s a plug-in hybrid version available which is super-efficient

•  The ride quality is smooth and comfortable

•  Some of the interior trims and plastics look and feel cheap