WEE GEM

The new Mitsubishi Shogun Sport goes on sale this spring, and the Cirencester-based UK importer has just released prices. Sitting between the Outlander and bigger Shogun in the range, the Shogun Sport comes in at £36,905 for the entry-level version and £38,905 for the next one up. There are only two trims available – Sport 3 and Sport 4 – which keeps things nice and simple. Both are powered by a 181bhp, 2.4-litre diesel engine and have four-wheel drive as standard. The seven-seater holds 1,488 litres of luggage with the rear seats folded down, and comes with a range of technologies, including trailer start-assist. I’ve always liked Mitsubishi’s big 4wd motors. They’re extremely tough and no-nonsense. Suzuki has launched a special edition of its Ignis super compact crossover, called the Ignis Adventure. I’m a huge fan of the Ignis, mainly because it is a technical achievement of some order. It doesn’t drive itself or anything like that, it’s simply extremely light.

At only 810kg for the lightest version, it’s no heavier than a Lotus Elise. Anyway, the Ignis Adventure costs £13,999 and features all the kit that comes with the SZ-T trim, but adds a rear spoiler, side mouldings, front and rear skid plates, coloured front grille centre bar and decal set. Sounds like a nice package.

Nissan has announced prices for the new generation LEAF electric car which features a range that’s been improved by 50% to give a maximum of 235 miles.

The line-up kicks off with the entry-level Visia at £21,990 (including the government £4,500 grant), then moves to £24,290 for the Acenta and tops out at £27,490 for the Tekna.

As well as being able to travel further between charges, the new LEAF has improved performance thanks to a new 150bhp electric motor.