THE Mitsubishi Shogun is large even by outsized 4x4 standards but at least the new-generation Shogun has been engineered for maximum efficiency on the roads as well as off.

It is the only range of four-wheel-drive vehicle to offer two environmentally-friendly and fuel-efficient engine options, one a direct-injection petrol unit and the other Mitsubishi's brand new direct-injection diesel engine, the first time it has introduced this unit into Europe.

Although the Shogun has been around since 1983, the new model is substantially different.

For the first time it has a monocoque chassis, just like a normal road car. Conventional wisdom has it that serious off-roaders need a separate ladder chassis on which the body sits.

The Mitsubishi uses a monocoque body with an in-built chassis frame.

The Shogun is now more than ever like a big passenger car on the road. The new front double wishbone suspension with coil springs and the multi-link rear suspension gives a better all-round balance for increased comfort and durability. Several 4x4 owning friends commented on how settled the ride felt.

The new Shogun is larger than the models it replaces.

Outwardly it's now more curvaceous, although I'm not too sure about the amount the boot overhangs the back wheels, but the luggage capacity is now so generous it is possible to have a third row of seats in there.

The new Shogun is surprisingly nippy and downright agile on tricky roads. The new model is also very easy to manoeuvre.

I was testing the new 3.2 DI-D (direct-injection diesel), used for the first time in Europe, which produces impressive fuel consumption figures and still turns out 162bhp at 3,800rpm and a massive 275-Ib ft of torque at only 2,000 rpm - more pulling power, even, than the 3.5 GDI petrol version (235-Ib ft of torque).

Mitsubishi figures reveal the DI-D engine is capable of nearly 30mpg - an outstanding figure for such a large car. Combined with a big fuel tank, the Shogun has a range of almost 500 miles between fill-ups.

The new interior design uses two-toned grey fascia panels for a soothing environment.

For the first time in the Shogun, a centre display shows all the driving information you might need such as the radio station.