Mitsubishi is driving the legendary rally-bred Shogun into 2003 with a radically upgraded, better equipped and more refined range of the world-beating sports utility vehicle. Unveiled in Barcelona this week the new Shogun/Pajero/Montero range has 15 new European features, including active stability and traction control systems (driving dynamic systems available on some UK specification vehicles from next summer,) The 2003 Shogun also presents Mitsubishi's new styling face.

With brightwork chrome conspicuous by its absence, the front end of the 2003 Shogun embodies a centrally mounted grille wing bearing an assertive three-diamond corporate logo.

This host of styling and technology enhancements will come at no extra cost as Mitsubishi adopts at least "carry over" pricing strategy across a simplified and higher specification range.

With an unchallenged motorsport rally-raid heritage, emphasising the sports in sports utility, the 2003 Shogun will include side airbags and easily assimilated digital instrumentation as standard equipment.

As the new Shogun sustains the model's reputation for distinctive looks, commanding road presence, dynamic driving qualities and impressive equipment levels Mitsubishi's styling guru, Olivier Boulay, has hinted at striking, future 4x4 contenders.

The stunning Shogun (or Pajero) Evolution 2+2 was taken from computer image to prototype in two months and has now been transformed into a full-blooded, rally-winning, taking victory on the recent United Arab Emirates desert challenge on its competitive debut.

Boulay, Mitsubishi's corporate general manager in charge of product design, believes the Shogun (Pajero) Evo, or Desert GT concept, could become a limited-run production vehicle, backed by a strong business case.

He revealed: "We do not build concept cars for their own sake. Further down the road, or track, this car provides strong visual cues which will influence the next generation Shogun and other vehicles."

It forms the advanced guard for a new style of Mitsubishi with more sculpted integrated lines and high-tech interiors mirroring uncluttered. classic Japanese design from other spheres including electronic goods.

SHOGUN ROAD AND TRACK STATISTICS

Seven Paris-Dakar rally raid wins, four cross-country FIA world cups and the recent rally raid debut victory on United Arab Emirates desert challenge.

Mainstay of brand's UK sales, with anticipated 15% of total Mitsubishi sales this year. Sold nearly 70,500 British market units since 1983 introduction. The ground breaking SUVs production tally, since 1981, stands currently at over 2.1 million units.

For further information please contact the Mitsubishi Press Office on 01285 647200

26.11.02