Mitsubishi Shogun GLS 3.0 V6

For years, Toyota's Landcruiser and Nissan's Patrol were Japan's answer to Land Rovers and Range Rovers. However, all that changed in 1983 when Mitsubishi released the Shogun. The vehicle industry worldwide sat up and took notice, impressed by the quality, luxury and ability of this new 4x4. By 1991, however, the game had moved on. Land Rover had by now responded to the challenge with the Discovery and Nissan and Toyota had all-new models. Something radical was needed to build on the Shogun's existing reputation for durability and advanced technology. And in the second generation Shogun, that's what we got. Buyers immediately loved the tough, Dinky Toy looks. The motoring press was less sure but raved over the smooth V6 3.0-litre engine and the quiet 2.5-litre turbo diesel. The result was that, for years, a Shogun was about as close to a sound motoring investment as you could get. That was all some time ago now but if you're after a big, affordable, no-nonsense 4x4 on the used market, the second generation Shogun might still be worth a shout.