HAILED by used car owners as the best 4x4 on the road, Mitsubishi has announced new Shogun models for next year, offering even greater flexibility especially when it comes down to transmissions and prices.

Key features of the new models are laid down as "more value, more choice and more style".

The Shogun range is known for its on and off-road ability, and as a result the mechanical specifications from this year's models are carried forward into the next range, which will include three new variants, revised equipment levels and, in some cases, lower prices.

Prices start at £21,499 for the short wheelbase Classic rising to £32,499 for the flagship long-wheelbase Elegance.

There are price cuts for some models: the Equippe at £22,999 for the short wheelbase three-door with manual gearbox is now £2,200 cheaper, while the long wheelbase five-door manual at £26,999 and automatic version at £28,499 are £2,000 cheaper.

The flagship Elegance line-up has been expanded, with the arrival of a new short wheelbase three-door version, available with either manual at £26,499 or automatic transmission at £27,999. Those Shogun fans that prefer five-door long wheelbase models are not forgotten, getting the chance for the first time to opt for a five-speed manual instead of the automatic gearbox on the Elegance version, with an on-the-road price of £30,999. The new Elegance also gets to ride on 17-inch alloy wheels.

There are also price savings offered with the Shogun Warrior. The best-selling long wheelbase model at £31,499 is £1,000 cheaper, while the £27,999 short wheelbase version now matches its bigger brother in terms of equipment with the addition of a 10 CD auto changer and Smartnave satellite navigation as standard.

The Shogun Sport has been given a redesigned front end, but following a £2,000 price reduction earlier this year, the prices have not been changed, starting at £16,999 and peaking at £21,999, although a dual-fuel version is also on the books for £24,199.

Engines available are the 3.2-litre and 3.5-litre V6 injected diesels.

Updated: 10:36 Friday, October 29, 2004