Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0 DiD Elegance MT

Jan 16 2010 Maxine Ashford

IF ever you wanted proof that there is a place for the good old 4x4 in our lives then surely the biting winter snap is evidence enough.

Despite the wagging fingers of the green brigade, life does have to go on during the snow storms, big freeze and eventual thaw. So as we see hundreds of cars abandoned on hard shoulders up and down the country, we can also spot the off-roaders trudging tirelessly through the challenging conditions.

I was fortunate to be trying out the Mitsubishi Outlander during the latest snow storms and honestly couldn't have wished for a better vehicle. I was lucky enough to drive an Outlander the length of New Zealand's North and South Islands so was very aware that come rain, sleet, snow or even sand dunes, it would be up to the task of eating up anything Mother Nature throws in its path with ease.

The 2.0-litre engine provided ample power and having a six-speed manual transmission was also a plus-factor in order to keep the gears high and revs low on icy roads.

The Outlander is fitted with three drive modes, two-wheel, four-wheel and lock for the really difficult terrain (although I found four-wheel-drive was ideal in the snow and ice).

But it's not all about performance, because the Outlander provides the perfect blend of beefy 4x4 capabilities along with a luxurious spec level more often found in an up-market saloon car.

For example, the model supplied for my test drive boasted 18-inch premium alloys, heated leather seats, an anti-trapping electric sunroof, reversing camera and sensors, a seven-inch touch screen sat nav system, privacy glass and a whole lot more.

In and around town, the Outlander responded really well and all-round visibility was excellent. Parking was made easier thanks to that reversing camera.

Then out on the open road, the ride was smooth, quiet and responsive. Unlike many other 4x4s the Outlander offers a warm inviting cabin rather than a shell to rattle round in.

All in all, when you add in the excellent safety specification too, the Outlander is a car for all seasons.

FAST FACTS

Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0 DiD Elegance MT

Price: £26,549

Mechanical: 138bhp, 1,968cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving four wheels via 6-speed manual gearbox

Max speed: 116mph

0-62mph: 10.8 seconds

Combined mpg: 40.9

Insurance group: 12

CO2 emissions: 183g/km

BIK rating: 22%

Warranty: 3 years/ unlimited miles