IT'S not often that I pray for a cold snap but that's always the case when I try out a Mitsubishi Outlander.

That's because the vehicle beautifully combines a high standard of creature comforts with all the company's off-road know-how and that means the Outlander will keep you going no matter what Mother Nature has in store.

It has a beefy, rugged, go-anywhere stance with a striking grille, sweeping headlights clusters with daytime running lights, a sunroof, chunky 18-inch alloys, privacy glass, roof rails and a very practical powered tailgate.

But it's not a case of simple grunt and force because the Outlander is packed with up-to-date technology including the likes of sat nav, Bluetooth connectivity, dual zone air conditioning, a great sound system which is compatible with all modern media devices and plenty more besides.

And the generously-sized cabin is very big on space with a massive boot capable of accommodating all your luggage requirements. Elsewhere there are cup holders, deep door pockets, a handy central bin, several smaller trays and a good-sized glovebox.

And should an extra couple of passengers want to come along for the ride, there are an additional two seats folded flat to the boot floor which quickly transform the vehicle into a seven seater.

The Outlander has plenty of refined touches too such as heated leather seats, a soft-touch dashboard, a leather multi-function steering wheel and clear and precise instrumentation.

And when it comes to performance, the Outlander is no slouch either. Powered by a 2.2-litre 147bhp diesel engine, the test car was deceptively spritely and could sprint from 0-62mph in 11.7 seconds and on to a top speed of 118mph.

According to official figures it can achieve combined fuel efficiency of 48.7mpg with carbon emissions of 153g/km.

In and around town, the Outlander cruised along effortlessly and the elevated driving position is a real bonus especially as this car will frequently be used on the school run.

Then out on the faster roads, the acceleration through the six-speed automatic transmission was quite impressive. Admittedly, it's not blistering, but consistent and steady. The driver can use steering wheel-mounted paddles to change gear if so desired.

The ride is comfortable for all occupants and the vehicle's insulation helps to stifle some of the road surface noise. That said; there is a fair amount of engine sound when the vehicle is pushed particularly hard.

Sadly when I had the car, the weather was warm, dry and what the majority of people would have wished for, so there was no opportunity to put the vehicle's very accomplished four-wheel-drive capabilities to the test. But it does have three driving modes - 4WD Eco, 4WD Auto and 4WD Lock.

It also comes with a comprehensive range of safety features, which helped it achieve the maximum five stars in the Euro NCAP ratings.