New Mitsubishi Shogun SWB Barbarian to Launch in UK

Mitsubishi is making a brand-new addition to their Shogun range of full-size SUVs in the UK. It’s called the Mitsubishi Shogun SWB (short wheel base) Barbarian, and it’s going to sit above the Shogun Warrior to top off the range at £31,999. As you continue reading, you’ll learn what’s new – both design-wise and specs-wise – in this self-described “off-road status symbol”. But first, let’s take a look at this beaut’:

What we have here is an exceedingly bold design fitting of the SUV’s barbaric roots. It looks aggressive, muscular and strong. Mitsubishi describes how several of its new styling elements – the front overhang, the bold front grille, the upright windscreen, the high beltline and the enormous wheel arches – all help “underline its tough, authentic, off-road ability.” In other words, this is a car that talks the talk AND walks the walk.

Aside from the exterior modifications described above, what else is new in the Shogun SWB barbarian?

In addition to the aggressively masculine design cues in the Barbarian’s new bodywork, you’ll also notice new dual colored 20-inch gloss black and silver Le Mans alloy wheels. There are also three color-schemes available: Black Pearl (pictured), Eiger Grey and Cool Silver.

Inside, you’ll find a cornucopia of technology additions and cabin improvements. Each Barbarian SUV will feature beautiful L200 Barbarian-style leather seats and trim with carbon fiber inserts to match the car’s color scheme, along with a matching leather-wrapped steering wheel. You’ll also notice new alloy pedals at your feet, along with the standard premium tech. goodies like AC and built-in GPS and DAB digital radio.

Performance-wise, the new Mitsubishi Shogun SWB Barbarian only comes with one engine option, but it’s a good one. It’s a 3.2L four-cylinder turbocharged diesel that outputs an earnest 197bhp, which can be paired with a five-speed automatic or a standard transmission. With the manual, you’ll be able to launch yourself from 0-60 in under 10 seconds, despite the SUV’s hefty size and weight.

The Mitsubishi Shogun SWB barbarian may seem like a strange car to add to the lineup, especially in Europe where other automakers are busy focusing on compact crossovers and hatchbacks. But, Mitsubishi emphasizes that “sales are up 78% on the Shogun LWB variants and an impressive 150% for the Shogun SWB variants year-on-year.” Even though it might not make perfect sense, Mitsubishi says that “heavy-duty workhorses such as the Shogun have carved out a very unique niche in the market where ability and dependability matter first and foremost.”