NOT so long ago, if you drove an off-roader you had to put up with some pretty miserable road manners and a tardy performance.

Now, the main players are vying to produce practical go-anywhere-vehicles that can tackle bends with as much gusto as they deal with a ploughed field.

And if you decide that mud-lugging isn't your bag, then you can dispense altogether with four-wheel-drive and still enjoy the advantages of a high driving position, loads of space and that outdoor image offered by an SUV.

Such a model is the Mitsubishi Outlander, a good looking, rugged five door which in all-paw form can conquer just about most terrains.

The version I tried was the GX3 two-wheel-drive which priced at £23,599 is one up from basic and has front drive, making that bit more frugal but obviously less versatile when it comes to off-road work.

Despite its considerable size - 4.6 metres long and two metres wide - there's nothing cumbersome about the handling and performance. Sharp steering and well-damped suspension give it a car-like feel but with a better vantage point.

There's very little body roll and crisp handling. This, coupled with an eager 2.2-litre direct injection turbo diesel engine which knocks out 154bhp, means journey times can be surprisingly rapid with little toll on the driver.

In terms of pure statistics, the Outlander stands comparison with most family saloons - acceleration to 62mph is covered in 11.4 seconds and top speed is a more than adequate 116mph. The abundant pulling power - 280lb/ft - means there's ample low-down grunt for high-gear acceleration.

It isn't the most refined power unit and tends to be a bit clattery when cold but there's no dispute that it delivers the goods.

At cruising speed noise levels are low making it relaxing and competent family transport. It also earns Brownie points for economy - officially the combined figure is 44.8mpg with an emissions level of 165g/km. In real life, this translates to nearly 40mpg which is pretty useful for such a large beast.

Talking of size, the Outlander can swallow up 541 litres of luggage before the rear seats are folded down which increases the load area to an impressive 1,700 litres.

This car had an optional third row of seats, which is useful for large families or the odd school-run collection. However, it's best to keep these for occasional use since the fold-out bench isn't the most comfortable place to perch for a long distance.

Cabin design is more functional than luxurious with acres of black plastic - all very durable and tough, but the interior lacks the style promised by the exterior. 

As with most Mitsubishi models, there's plenty of standard kit included - climate control, front electric windows, alloy wheels and Bluetooth are all in the package.