Mitsubishi - Space Wagon

2000-04

Space Wagon gained its reputation as a high-value, well built and reliable family seven-seater. But it's getting on now, and more modern rivals offering more stylish, flexible and inspiring MPV solutions.

	Good value for a seven-seater family MPV
	Comfortable, roomy and refined
	Good equipment plus assured reliability
	Seating layout is less flexible than rivals
	Interior trim is rather plasticky
	Fairly thirsty; some parts are expensive

Space Wagon has been ferrying kids to school since the 1980s. The current generation dates back to 1998; it's due for replacement soon - and not before time. With a growing number of seven-seater family MPVs on the market, Space Wagon's main attraction - its third row of seats - is no longer enough to make it a top buy. The lack of economical diesel power also counts against it.
That said, both petrol engines are refined and fairly lively, though neither gives more than 30mpg. With pleasingly car-like handling, a smooth ride and not much body roll, it should please driver and occupants.
The interior is practical but unremarkable; comfort and equipment are good, and seats are supportive. The rearmost pair are removable but the middle row isn't - a bit of a letdown when almost all big MPV rivals offer far more passenger/load flexibility.
Expect used prices to weaken as soon as the 2005 replacement is available.