So, who invented the crossover? The term has become ubiquitous to denote a car which is a combination of two or more classes.

It applies to vehicles which are, for example, people-carriers with a bit of SUV (sports utility vehicle) thrown in. Well, the first such model was the Mitsubishi Outlander, a model which has evolved from a slightly obscure motor into a proper contender which gives the current crop of SUVs something to worry about.

It has a streamlined stance, pretty upmarket styling and a fantastic engine. Outlander only comes as a diesel but with such a great engine, why would you want a petrol? This 2.2 diesel offers economy, a decent turn of speed and is flexible.

This is the third generation Outlander. A cornerstone of the firm’s new model plans for the coming years, not only has the Outlander been the subject of a weight loss programme it’s also been designed from the outset to accommodate conventional engines and the new wave of plug-in hybrid technologies.

For now, Outlander symbolises a step forward in its own right. The weight reduction has been achieved without compromise, while the reward has been meaningful efficiency and emissions gains.

The 148bhp 2.2-litre diesel unit has been reworked for its new home, with the result a useful 50mpg and a sub-150g/km CO2 rating. From a performance angle the car will sprint to 60mph in just under 10 seconds, while top speed is 124mph. Both gearboxes deliver a smooth and hassle-free experience, with the auto offering the extra convenience for urban dwellers and those seeking fewer distractions when towing.

On the road the Outlander performs well as an all-rounder. There’s a welcome maturity to the way it drives, and body control is well contained and overall refinement is pleasingly high. Granted, there’s no escaping the fact that the Outlander is diesel powered, but the car’s cabin ambience is rarely disturbed by the engine’s activity.

Factor in an easy to use all-wheel drive system that offers extra grip when the weather turns foul or for added security when you’re towing and the Outlander’s versatility is hard to ignore.

Access to the rear via the folding action of the second row is improved, while that second row splits 60-40 fashion to aid flexibility when carrying cargo when the third row is folded flat.

Boasting a stylish appearance plus a revised cabin offering ambience, the third generation Outlander does many things right.

The weight saving, promise of generous kit levels and tangible running cost savings are just some of the other achievements likely to put the Outlander on the shopping lists of many buyers.