TAKE Land Rover out of the equation and then the best known and respected of traditional working off-roaders has to be the Mitsubishi Shogun - or Pajero as it is known across the globe.

Rather than a fashion accessory, which some of its rivals have become, the Mitsubishi Shogun has maintained its working class roots - Shogun has strong rural connections and is a vehicle bought by people who actually need and use four-wheel drive on a regular basis.

So the arrival of the fourth generation Shogun is an occasion that is being closely monitored out in the sticks rather than the city.

Rather than simply a face-lift, Mitsubishi is at pains to point out that over 70 per cent of the vehicle is new.

This isn't immediately obvious because Shogun retains the familiar muscular and chisel-edged styling, upright windscreen, short-nose and side hinged tailgate that have persisted since the original in 1979.

The three-door versions retain the same wheelbase (2545mm) but are now 70mm longer, 10mm narrower (slimmer wheel arches) while putting on some weight. The family oriented five-door has grown, stretching by 90mm, again getting a narrower waist (10mm) while putting 15mm on its height. This version now features Mitsubishi's seven seat configuration where the third row Hide and Seat' units (child zone only) fold flat into floor.

A new contemporary feel lifts the previous utilitarian atmosphere of the cabin into a slightly more comfortable, better finished living zone.

A new range topping Diamond derivative has been added, which joins the established Equippe, Warrior and Elegance grades.

Entry level versions are fitted with automatic climate control with pollen filter, six speaker CD/MP3 Audio, multi-function steering wheel controls, ABS with Brakeforce Distribution, keyless entry, electric windows, 17inch alloy wheels, and metal finish roof rails and side steps. Warrior, Elegance and Diamond models gain a seven inch touch-screen display which links in the navigation, communication, audio and DVD systems, electric powered seats and heated front seats, bigger alloys, privacy glass, a rear spoiler and front fog lights.

Elegance and Diamond also come installed with a 12 speaker Rockford Fosgate Premium Sound audio system, a powered sunroof, rear air conditioning and rear parking sensors while the Diamond on its own moves up to 20 inch alloys, front coloured-keyed resin guard, a sports grille and titanium accented mirrors, door handles and headlight surrounds.

Disappearing from the shogun line-up is the option of a petrol engine. Mitsubishi says there was very little demand to justify having one at this stage so they have concentrated on improving their four cylinder 16 valve 3.2 litre turbo diesel which includes a new high-pressure common rail direct fuel injection system that provides more power and better economy while being quieter in operation.

The only choice is between transmissions; a five speed INVECS-II automatic with sequential Sports Mode where the power output is 168mph and a revised five speed manual offering a lower 158bhp.

For difficult situations, Shogun retains its all-wheel drive with super select 4 II transfer case. This incorporates a centre differential with the torque normally split one-third front and two-thirds rear. Super Select offers the ability to choose rear-wheel drive only or four wheel drive in high and low gear ratios with a locking centre differential and an until low ratio for extreme off-road work. This is supplemented by second generation Active Stability and Traction Control systems that add an extra bit of reassurance.

Prices have risen by an average of £500, but Mitsubishi is quick to mention that they now come with £3,000 worth of extra equipment. Prices range from £22,549 for the three-door Equippe to £34,999 for the five-door Diamond.

Shogun has a high loyalty rating (70 per cent) and the latest generation will do no harm to this as it continues the brand image for tough rugged go-anywhere performance and looks without the frivolity.