CLAIMED TO BE THE WORLD’S first plug-in hybrid SUV, the new Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV made its world debut at the Paris Motor Show. This version of the Outlander actually has three driving modes: EV Drive – all electric using drive to all four wheels from the drive battery; Series Hybrid Mode – the vehicle’s engine generates electricity for the electric motors; Parallel Hybrid – the engine provides the motive power, assisted by the electric motors as required. The Outlander PHEV uses a twin motor 4×4 system, which has independent motors driving each of the four wheels. This means that as well as having decreased frictional losses to each wheel, Mitsubishi claims that the response and dynamic control of this power distribution can be more finely deployed, when compared to a standard, conventional mechanical system. Another advantage of electric motors is that they can deliver maximum torque immediately, rather than wait as the engine revs rise for this power to be deployed. The Outlander’s conventional petrol engine is a 2-litre, four cylinder. The model will go on to the Japanese market in early 2013, but it is expected that this will then be made available in other global markets.

After being on sale for just one month, the All-New Range Rover, which recently made its global public debut at the Paris Motor Show, has been placed top in the 4×4 category in the Sunday Times Driving Top 100 Cars.

Judges were impressed by the all-new, British designed and built model: “Since its launch in 1970 it has set the standard all others have tried — and usually failed — to reach. It is the only car in the world in which you would feel equally comfortable driving across the Sahara, going shooting or giving it to the doorman at the Hotel de Paris in Monaco.”

It is claimed that the Lexus RX450h is one of the most tax efficient SUVs on the market. Due to the hybrid power system, the model’s class-leading 145g/km CO2 emissions means that the Lexus attracts a benefit-in-kind rating of 20 per cent which means that over a three-year period company car drivers in the Lexus will “be paying thousands of pounds less than those who choose the equivalent BMW X5, or Range Rover Sport”. For many, the option to save thousands in tax over a few years could indeed be quite a temptation.

It’s now 30 years since the first Panda 4×4 was produced. For those of us old enough to remember, the original little Fiat answered a question that few had thought to ask, producing a small, budget, go-anywhere vehicle. Arguably the first crossover vehicle, it appeared bulletproof, was surprisingly capable off-road and was pleasingly enjoyable to drive! The latest Panda 4×4 will have been unveiled at the Paris Motor Show as you read this. It has a permanent, electronically controlled, on-demand four-wheel drive system. It also has an electronically lockable centre diff and electronic stability control to aid uphill starts. The last Panda 4×4 was let down by its engine, so it’s great to hear that the latest model has the option of either the new small under 1-litre TwinAir Turbo which produces 85bhp, or the1.3-litre MultiJet II diesel which only produces 75bhp, but which actually has 40 per cent more torque than the previous 1.2-litre unit; a significant uplift, which should help to get up the hills this time! This vehicle has the potential to do well, but the last version was something of a disappointment. We look forward to driving the new model in the coming weeks.

The new September ‘62’ plate is now with us, and to celebrate Subaru has some interesting deals, offering new finance options, and a very special deal of a £3000 saving on a 2.0-litre ES Nav Legacy. That’s a great deal on an often-overlooked 4×4 estate. Fitted with the excellent 150bhp ‘boxer’ petrol engine, six speed gearbox or optional Lineartronic CVT transmission for the same price. Prospective buyers can also take advantage of a comprehensive 24-hour test drive, where you ‘live’ with the car for a day to see if it’s suitable. To find out more, check out your nearest Subaru dealer, or go to: www.subaru.co.uk

Higher specification levels are now available on Defenders, with two new body colours, improved seating and – would you believe it? – an upgraded in-car entertainment system. Barolo Black and Havana are the new body colours, but it is perhaps the new premium part-leather seats upfront that will be the most welcoming addition. You’ll certainly sit more comfortably, but whether an improved audio system is necessary is another question.

Mechanically everything remains the same; these model ‘tweaks’ being used as sales aids for what could well be the last model year for the Defender. These 2013 model year Defenders are available now, with prices starting from £22,350.