There are few cars that handle going off road quite as well as the rugged Mitsubishi Outlander. But with a plug-in hybrid option and seven seats on most models, it’s also an excellent option for big families looking to lower running costs.

In 2015 the Outlander received a design overhaul, making it not only a handsome 4×4 from the outside, but also improving the cabin and technologies on offer.

Perhaps most appealing of all is the fact that the hybrid powertrains are offered without a cost premium over the standard combustion engines.

If all of that makes the Outlander an appealing prospect, let Motors.co.uk guide you towards the best buy for every budget.

The smart choice for those on a budget: Outlander 2

For those working to a tight budget, the entry level Outlander 2 trim variant is the way to go.

Under the bonnet sits a 2.3-litre diesel engine making 148bhp. It emits 139g/km of CO2 and achieves 53.3mpg on the combined cycle.

Inside it’s not particularly luxurious – as you’d expect from a more workhorse-orientated vehicle. However, gloss black dashboard trim helps to make the interior slightly less spartan.

There’s a four-wheel drive mode selector as standard, as well as stop/start technology and an eco mode to help save money on the school run.

On the outside, it gets 16-inch steel wheels, black wheel arches and daytime running lights.

The Mitsubishi Outlander 2 starts at £24,999 after the government’s plug-in hybrid grant is taken off.

The smart choice for value for money: Outlander PHEV GX3h

Those looking to get good value for money need look no further than the entry-level plug-in hybrid variant.

It’s powered by a 2.0-litre petrol engine mated to two electric motors that make a combined 200bhp. The battery has a range of 32.5 miles on electric power alone.

To make the GX3h stand out above the base models, it comes with 18-inch alloy wheels and privacy glass on the rear windows. It also gets electric, heated and folding wing mirrors, keyless operation and fog lamps all around.

Inside, there’s a joystick-styled gear knob, while the steering wheel comes wrapped in leather.

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV GX3h starts at £31,749.

The smart choice for technophiles: Outlander PHEV 5hs

The top-of-the-range Outlander is the must-have for all technophiles.

It comes with the same hybrid drivetrain as on lower trim levels, but is differentiated from those with minor styling differences such as a rear spoiler and bonnet badge.

Other features only standard on the top-spec model include LED lights all around, an electric rear tailgate and front and rear parking sensors. Owners can also download a smartphone app that lets them monitor their car’s charge state as well as pre-heat the cabin on a cold day.

Inside, there’s mood lighting, colour-coded mats and leather-covered door panels.

The Mitsubishi Outlander 5hs starts at £43,499 after the government’s plug-in hybrid grant is taken off.