TEST DRIVE By Mark Middleton

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 5, Issue 28, 8 December 1987, Page 1 (Supplement)

TEST DRIVE By Mark Middleton

The Magna is based on the Mitsubishi range of family cars and successfully bridges the gap between four cylinder space and performance. As I walked around the wagon I was amazed that the external appearance hid the fact that this could probably transport the Australian cricket team or the Japanese rugby team and still have room for a picnic lunch, the ref. and a couple of six packs. Not being a fan of digital instrument panels I was pleased with the clear and uncluttered display panel. Once in the driver's seat I

found the position of the radio, heater, vents and indicators very easily reached and the gear shift well positioned and clearly marked. I was keen to see if the performance matched the interior design and space this wagon provided. As I drove out of the showroom I immediately appreciated the design efforts that had achieved

excellent vision and the power steering which made this wagon easy to manipulate around the other new cars. When Keith lifted the bonnet and showed me the working part of the wagon, I was surprised at the large engine and it wasn't long before I realised that Mitsubishi had found a two-and-a-half litre engine that could match the six cylinder performance. I cruised down the main street and going over the flyover the car quickly reminded me that this was a front wheel drive vehicle. The Manunui straight gave me the opportunity to hit fifth gear and there was heaps of power between 3000 and 4000 rpm. A Ministry of Works truck in a hurry to get to work held me up, but the car pulled away in style without the need to change down a couple of gears. The car handled the Echolands roundabout very easily with the suspension helping to keep the c^r straight and with minimum rolling effect. I must comment about the quietness of this wagon. 1 am no whiz-kid when it comes to understanding the mechanics of a car, but Mitsubishi must be congratulated on producing one of the quietest wagons I have driven. The drive back to town along Taupo Road is a good test for any problems with suspension and any squeaks that a new vehicle might have. The car was smooth and the rough Borough Council roads certainly weren't a problem. I decided to take the wagon for a drive out to Hikumutu to see if the space and performance would suit

a farmer who may still have enough left for a deposit on the competitive price of $34,200. A burst around the county roads (which are

nearly as bad as the Borough's) and I could only be enthusiastic about all aspects of this wagon and suggest this car has enough power and room to take a

bale of wool, or two, to town for a bit of Christmas money! Around town this wagon is equal to all situations and 1 really enjoyed my test drive of the Mitsubishi Magna.