BestUsedCarReview - We’ve always
considered the Mitsubishi Shogun to be a bit overpriced, since it’s a used SUV
with a reputation that somewhat embellishes reality. Even in its sleeker third generation
form from 1999, the Shogun was always less refi ned and more cumbersome to drive
than many of its rivals, yet its popularity - originally spurred by the
realisation that it offered a more reliable and cheaper alternative to a Range
Rover - continues unabated to an extent that your £3000 is unlikely to get you
anything newer than a year 2000 model and with 150,000 miles on it at that;
even higher-mileage previous generation (and more truck-like) models can
command over £1000.
Nevertheless the
post-1999 mitsubishi Shogun 4x4 sport has appeal for its more aggressive
Dakar-inspired styling, particularly in the short-wheelbase version, and in the
seven-seater functionality of the long wheelbase estate.
This was the first Mitsubishi
Shogun to shrug off the conventional off-road vehicle transport structure and
instead of a separate chassis and rigid axles it boasts a monocoque bodyshell
and all-independent coil-sprung suspension, along with rack-andpinion steering
the result being a more compliant quality of ride and sharper steering
response. The Shogun is quite car-like to drive, though some might find the
powered steering a little too light. However, the big estate rides comfortably
and corners without too much body lean. Both diesel and petrol variants are
lively performers, though the V6 needs to be revved to give of its best, while
the strong mid-range torque of the diesel calls for fewer gearshifts to regain
speed after a tight bend, making for more comfortable overall progress. It is
also a better engine for off-roading, with torque peaking at 2000rpm. A five-speed
manual transmission was standard, though an automatic was an option, some were
four-speeders, others had the newer and more desirable five-speed box, so check
the transmission before buying.
The Super Select
four-wheel drive system is arguably more complex than it need be, particularly
in a car that is unlikely to venture off-road, but it has appeal to
gadget-lovers; for this generation a quieter chain-drive transfer box is used.
In terms of straightforward off-road traction the Shogun is unstoppable, but it
does lack ground clearance and the long wheelbase estate has a debilitatingly
long overhang limiting its capability in tortuous terrain.
Equipment on all
models of used car Mitsubishi shogun sport 4x4 is good, even the base GLX has
tilt adjustable steering column, alloy wheels, electric heated mirrors and a
four-speaker stereo, while the GLS adds a roof spoiler, body side-mouldings,
front fog lamps, headlight washers, automatic air-conditioning, cruise control
and height-adjustable driver’s seat. From 2001 the Classic replaced the GLX and
Equippe replaced the GLS, while a new range-topping version, the Elegance, was
introduced. Look out for the later Field, Animal and Warrior special editions,
though these will be rare at under £3000.
The bold exterior
styling of the used SUV mitsubishi Shogun is reflected in the interior with its
heavy dashboard featuring a massive centre console giving the driver a feeling
of being tucked into a cockpit, the comfortable and supportive armchair seat
helping to enhance the driving experience. It’s nevertheless a roomy vehicle, with
plenty of elbow room and headroom. The rear bench in the five-door is shaped to
take three adults and has reclining backrests, with very little in the way of a
transmission tunnel to make life uncomfortable for a central passenger. The mitsubishi
Shogun sport stays good to 4x4 vehicle transport tradition in having the spare
mounted on the sideways-opening tailgate, and so has good boot space, easily
enough to accommodate the extra fold-up seat, which can be removed to leave a
useful underfl oor storage space.
In spite of its
reputation, the Mitsubishi Shogun sport isn’t totally infallible, listen for
the groan of worn wheel bearings and the click or rumble of worn CV joints on
the front axle, check for oil leaks from the rear differential and check the
state of the brake discs as well as pads, which wear quickly especially on a
car that’s been used for towing. Engine failures are not unknown, check for
signs of ‘mayonnaise’ under the oil filler cap hinting at the possibility of
impending gasket failure, and make sure the timing chain and its tensioners
have been replaced on schedule - if you can’t be sure on a higher mileage car
have the job done yourself as soon as possible, because a slipped timing chain
can wreck the engine.
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