The 2003 Mitsubishi Shogun
Published: 22nd December 2002
All Shogun’s are constructed with a single monocoque body shell with a built-in frame for maximum strength. The main advantage of this over a traditional ladder frame chassis is that the single-unit monocoque construction allows for sharper responses between the driver and the vehicle, eliminating delay between the body and the chassis. Therefore, the driver benefits from more feel and feedback. In addition, the monocoque body has allowed the Shogun’s centre of gravity to be lowered by 50mm.
Direct Injection Technology
Mitsubishi’s Direct Injection Diesel technology (DI-D) 3.2-litre 4-cylinder 16-valve DOHC engine with turbocharger and intercooler is employed across the Shogun range and has improved fuel economy by up to 15% when compared to the previous 2.8 indirect injection diesel units.
The 3.5 GDI Elegance Shogun is fitted with Mitsubishi’s GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engine which was the first of its kind to be available in a V6 configuration in Europe, and provides plenty of power and lower emissions. In low load conditions, the GDI engine operates in Ultra-Lean Combustion Mode, while it switches to Superior Output Mode as the load gets heavier.
INVECS-II Transmission
The INVECS-II learning 5-speed automatic transmission with Sports Mode is available on the Shogun, combining the appeal of a manual transmission with the convenience of an automatic gearbox. By offering two systems in one in this way, the driver has the convenience of automatic transmission when required yet is able to exercise more control when appropriate and realise the full potential of the engine.
Suspension And Steering
The suspension system for all Shoguns includes coil springs rather than torsion bar springs in the front double wishbone suspension. In 2002, the suspension travel was increased by 40mm at the front and 30mm at the rear to improve off-road performance, while the turning radius matches passenger car performance with 5.3m for the 3-door and 5.7m for the 5-door.
The Shogun’s ABS system has a 4-sensor, 4-channel system which means each brake works independently improving stability, especially when cornering.
