HERE'S a bit of advice - if you are trying to get in touch with your feminine side, the Mitsubishi Shogun Warrior could be the wrong choice.
There's a strong clue in the name - the newest addition to the near-iconic off-roader range is very much true to the Warrior image.
Tall, muscle-bound and macho, the short wheelbase 4WD does a good impression of a road-going Mike Tyson.
Although it has only three-doors in short wheelbase form, there's bags of space for four passengers, making it quite a rarity among serious mud-luggers. And that's exactly what the Shogun is - less sports utility vehicle, more mountain goat or highland express.
This model was powered by a mighty 3.2-litre four cylinder turbo diesel that pushes out 158bhp and has enough pulling power to haul a herd of elephants. That doesn't mean it's quick though - with a top speed of 106mph and a leisurely saunter to 62mph in around 13.2 seconds it trails behind the newer breed of 4WDs.
The diesel version is by far the most popular, not least because of its economy - I averaged 28mpg which is slightly better than the official figure.
While progress may not be rapid, it is effortless thanks in part to great visibility due to the tall stance and also to the five speed Invecs-2 automatic transmission system which not only blends the advantages of a self-changing box with those of a manual, but also adapts electronically to different motorists driving styles and varying road/track conditions. It's a fluid and sensitive system that works convincingly well.
Most owners will spend most of their time in two-wheel drive which directs the power to the rear wheels. But in variable driving conditions with some snow, ice or generally slippery surfaces four-wheel drive can be selected during which 67 per cent of power goes to the rear and the remainder to the front wheels. There are two further modes designed for dealing with serious situations from snow and sand to deep mud and near glaciation!
The cabin is a generally welcoming place which combines the practicalities of a go anywhere off-roader with the comforts of a luxury saloon - leather trim, sat-nav, air con, CD/cassette player/radio, and cruise control all come as standard in the £27,544 Warrior.
Front seats were made larger when the model was revamped for the third generation Shogun back in 2000.
Getting in can be quite a stride as the Shogun has high ground clearance and access to the rear takes a bit of practice. Illuminated side steps are more than just a snazzy gimmick - they do help you climbing aboard at night.
Boot space behind the rear seats - which split and fold - is somewhat restricted in the short wheelbase version. The LWB model obviously has more space and can carry seven people.
The Shogun Warrior is unlikely to appease the tree-hugging, anti-four-wheel-drive contingent, but it's a characterful vehicle for those who love the outdoor life.
FAST FACTS
Mitsubishi Shogun 3.2 DI-D Warrior auto 3dr
Price: £27,544
Mechanical: 158bhp, 3,200cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving all four wheels via 5spd automatic gearbox
Max speed: 106mph
0-62mph: 13.2 secs
Combined mpg: 26.9
Insurance group: 16
CO2 emissions: 278g/km
BiK rating: 35%
Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited mileage; 6yrs paint; 6yrs anti-rust