IN an age where many cars are designed to look like something they are not, the Mitsubishi Outlander is a refreshing breath of honesty. It looks like a big, solid, dependable 4X4. And that’s just what it is.

Latest models now boast a new 2.2-litre diesel engine, combined with a six-speed manual gearbox, which gives a 14 per cent increase on power and a 12 per cent drop in CO2 emissions.

The Outlander has proved a popular seller since its launch in 2007, with sales rising year-on-year.

The vehicle was used as the basis for the off-road vehicles launched by Citroën and Peugeot, the C-Crosser and the 4007, and has solidly sold more than three times as many vehicles as those ‘rival’ models.

The attractions of 4x4 styling are obvious — high driving position, rugged looks, safe feel — and externally, the most aggressively distinctive styling cue is the so-called ‘Jet-Fighter’ grille that brings it into line with the Lancer Evolution, Lancer and Colt models.

Riding on 18-inch alloy wheels, with black roof rails and front fog-lights, the GX3 model looks like it means business.

The interior has undergone an upmarket makeover with optional leather seats and a new high-contrast colour LCD instrument meter display, complete with Bluetooth phone link controlled by buttons mounted on the leather-trimmed steering wheel.

Between the front seats sits an aluminium-trimmed dial that allows the driver to select two- or four-wheel-drive and also lock the differential, at the flick of the wrist.

Technological tweaks include the useful hill start assist, that automatically holds the brakes for about two seconds to prevent the vehicle from slipping backwards on steep slopes and an emergency stop signal system that automatically detects severe braking to engage the hazard warning lights and increase braking efficiency. Even the rear of the vehicle hides a not-so-little surprise, for tucked away in the rear loadspace is an extra pair of ‘occasional’ seats which fold up, origami style, from the floor once you have mastered the right order to pull the releases.

On top of the three-year unlimited mileage warranty and European breakdown service offered on all its cars, Mitsubishi also offers a three-year-37,500-mile servicing plan. Priced at £315, it is little wonder that almost 100 per cent of buyers take up the scheme.

So, in a surprisingly compact vehicle you have real go-anywhere capability and seven-seater carrying capacity.

If you want to tow it, trail it, or truck it, the Outlander will do the job.

Though even now, Mitsubishi has recognised the desire among some buyers for 4x4 looks without actual off-road ability and this year’s range includes a new two-wheel-drive diesel version with the twin benefits of lower emissions and improved fuel consumption.

Auto facts Mitsubishi Outlander 2.2 GX3 4WD

  • Price: £24,849
  • Ins group: 10 (1-50)
  • Fuel consumption (Combined): 43.5mpg
  • Top speed: 124mph
  • Length: 466cm/183.4in
  • Width: 180cm/70.9in
  • Luggage space: 27.2 cu ft
  • Fuel capacity: 13.2 gallons/ 60 litres
  • CO2 emissions: 169g/km
  • Warranty: 3 years/unlim mileage