While few people could envisage gunning a RAV 4 across a wild moor, the Pinin is up for the job. And, like the exterior, the Pinin's interior is neatly put together. There is a lot of grey plastic on the dashboard but the build quality is flawless and the instruments are clearly and intelligently laid out. Equipment levels are good. A trip computer, air conditioning and alloy wheels are standard.
Space is one commodity the car lacks, however.
Front passengers are well catered for but rear legroom is minimal and the boot is far from spacious. But the Pinin plays its trump card at the turn of the ignition key. Mitsubishi's 1.8 GDi engine is one of the best units available - bar none. The Observer's test car combined punchy acceleration with very acceptable fuel economy. During a three day test, the Pinin stretched 33 miles from each gallon of unleaded.