Mitsubishi's UK dealers will be crucial to the success of a new family of company car tax-beating vehicles. The importer wants its retailer network to play a pivotal role in encouraging local businesses to take on its 4Work range.

The line-up includes a selection of four-wheel drive commercial vehicle options based on current cars. Dealers have already been briefed on the launch, which builds on the success of the L200 pick-up. It also comes after a strong period of growth in Mitsubishi commercial vehicles sales, which rose from about 1000 units in 1999 to a forecast 7000 units this year.

Because every model in the range is classed as a commercial vehicle, a VAT registered company can reclaim the 17.5 per cent VAT on the purchase price. And as any 4Work is a passenger vehicle converted for commercial use, 40 per cent taxpayers will pay a yearly benefit-in-kind bill of £200 while 22 per cent taxpayers will pay £110 a year.

“We have seen a new type of customer attracted to this market, people in business or private buyers who have the need for a commercial or recreational vehicle but want the style and refinement of a car,” says Paul Williams, sales and marketing director for Mitsubishi Motors UK.

Excluding VAT, prices for the 21-vehicle family start at £10,995 for the Shogun Pinin 1.8 Classic Commercial and move up to £27,271 for the Shogun 3.2TD DI-D Equippe Commercial automatic.

Accessories include load guards, tow bars, load liners, heavy duty mats and waterproof seat covers. The three-year warranty package includes European recovery.