But in a bold move, Mitsubishi brings us the all-wheel drive version. From March 2003, there's all-wheel drive available in Magna AWD, Magna Sports AWD and Verada AWD models. All 3 models share the same mechanical features, although the Magna Sports AWD has a slightly more powerful engine.

The subject of this test, though, is the base model..... the Magna AWD. It comes standard with an adequate 3.5 litre V6, coupled to a 5 speed automatic transmission with a sequential manual over-ride. When used manually, this is a very nicely operated system as the sequential change is a push forward to go up a notch, pull back to come down a notch and this is the "proper" way for a sequential gearbox to work. But try telling that to Ford, as their Falcon has the sequential changing mechanism the wrong way around! When the Magna is in automatic mode though, the familiar problem of no block-out for overdrive is evident, thus the motor labours in a higher gear than what is neccessary when you're sitting on a steady 60-70 kph. For christmas, my wish is that all automatics (that's Mitsubishi and all other cars, too) come with a block-out for overdrive, as this will make driving an auto in the city more enjoyable. To look at it from a different perspective..... let's ask the question..... how often do you drive in overdrive in town when you're driving a car with manual transmission? The answer should be the same when you're driving an automatic!

What's it like on the road you ask? Let me state this as clear as it's possible..... this car is GREAT on the road..... there's no sign of front-wheel drive for the simple reason that it isn't front-wheel drive..... the all-wheel drive nature of Magna AWD has made an already good car a great car. All it took was the fitment of an all-wheel drive system to turn this car into something which is difficult to comprehend until you're behind the wheel! It's easy to drive, handles well, goes well, it goes where directed and it's so smooth you just want to keep driving. I better repeat that....... it's so smooth! Magna's have a big tuning circle, but with standard power steering it's easy to live with. But I need to repeat, it's so smooth, so comfortable.

An outstanding car!

The test area was the F3 between Sydney and Newcastle, with some suburban driving in both cities. A total of 216 kms was travelled. Not a big distance, but sufficient to provide adequate information to make a positive assessment of this new car's abilities.

The test car was Pacific Blue Metallic, a pleasant colour, just one of the 11 colours available on the base model. The interior was grey and it, too, presented nicely. The 12-spoke 16" alloy wheels are standard.

Standard equipment includes driver and front passenger air bags, single cd player, AM/FM radio, leather covered steering wheel, power windows and upgraded brakes.