Heavily revised at the beginning of 2007, the latest generation Shogun has 70 per cent new parts — external and internal — compared to its predecessor and as before it’s available in light commercial vehicle trim. This time around, however, it’s available solely as a three-door.Power comes from a reworked common rail version of the tried and tested 3.2-litre turbodiesel from the previous line-up and its capable of producing maximum power of 158hp (3,800rpm). Peak torque of 381Nm (281 lb/ft) is available at 2,000rpm. A five-speed manual gearbox is fitted as standard, but an auto ’box is also available.
As with all mitsubishi offroaders Shogun utilises a part-time four-wheel drive system. Selection of high and low range 4×4 modes using the separate shift-stick is electronic.There seems to be an endless supply of torque from the big TD engine and the front and rear independent suspension means that this Shogun is just as at home on tarmac as it is in the rough stuff. It exhibits a surprisingly small amount of bodyroll during cornering. Ventilated discs are fitted all-round and ABS comes as standard, as does a stability and traction control system.
Access to the 1.7m3 load area is via a single side-hinged (offside) rear door which carries the spare wheel on the outside. One slight disappointment is that just the two load tie-down points are provided. Load length is 1,290mm and the width between the wheel boxes is 1,090mm. The cab is exactly the same as that of the passenger versions; hardly surprising considering that’s how the 4Work versions start their life.
The specification is high and includes air conditioning. Service intervals are set at 12,500 miles which is a bit too frequent.
VERDICT
Shogun Commercial is on the expensive side, but if serious off-roading is on the cards it’s the dog’s bollocks.
