IT is always a delight when a car manufacturer really ups its game. Mitsubishi has done just that with its answer to the incredibly popular Nissan Qashqai.

Mitsubishi’s ASX, like the Qashqai, is competitively priced, starting at about £16,000, and despite its forceful 4x4 appearance, like the Qashqai most of the models in the range are front-wheel-drive.

The engine choice is a simple one — either a 115 horsepower, 1.6-litre petrol, mated to a five-speed manual gearbox, or a 147 horsepower, 1.8-litre turbodiesel, linked to a six-speed manual gearbox.

It was the punchier diesel that provided the oomph under the bonnet of the top-of-the-range test model, which also comes with an electronically-controlled 4x4 system.

The leading so-called crossover vehicles combine the best of 4x4 driving — commanding driving position and chunky good looks — with car-like handling and refinement.

On those two scores alone, the ASX, which is based on the same platform as the Outlander, is a real winner. Well-built, quiet and stylish, the cabin is spacious, versatile and smartly trimmed, delivering a real feel of quality.

But it is also hugely flexible, with split-fold rear seats with variable seat back adjustment, a rear armrest with a ski hatch and cup holders and a 30-litre under-floor compartment in the boot.

Standard equipment from the entry-level ASX 2 model upwards includes air conditioning, reversing sensors, a CD/MP3 player with aux-in audio jack, electrically-controlled and folding door mirrors and 16in alloy wheels. Anti-lock brakes, stability control and traction control, keyless entry, dual-stage front side and curtain airbags, driver’s knee airbag and a tilt and telescopic steering column also come as standard across the range.

Hop up to the top-of-the-range ASX 4 and you are looking at real luxury, with everything from one-touch starting, cruise control and heated seats, to Bluetooth phone link, automatic lights and windscreen wipers and leather seats.

A Kenwood in-car entertainment system, incorporating iPod control, sat nav and a reversing camera, is so complex that a remote control handset is tucked away in the centre console storage box for passengers to take command.

Saving fuel has been high on the ASX design agenda, with the entire range fitted with an automatic stop-and-go system, which combines with electric power steering system and low-rolling resistance tyres to push fuel consumption above 50mpg in day-to-day use.

The range-topper is a true off-roader with a flick-of-the-wrist adjuster to select one of three modes to match traction control, from front-wheel-drive, through four-wheel-drive, to 4WD lock mode which improves traction on poor road surfaces and when the vehicle is stuck.

In short, the ASX is a big leap forward for Mitsubishi, on and off-road.

Price: £24,399 Insurance group: 20 (1-50) Fuel consumption (Combined): 39.6mpg Top speed: 123mph Length: 429.5cm/169in Width: 177cm/69.6in Luggage capacity: 15.6 cu ft Fuel tank capacity: 13.2 gallons/60 litres CO2 emissions: 150g/km Warranty: 3 years/unlimited mileage