Mitsubishi Pajero Sport Review & Pictures

[Iron Rock]

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport Review Synopsis: Mitsubishi Pajero Sport price tag is between Rs.24.98 – 25.28 Lakh. It officially launched in India on 15th Nov 2014.

Mitsubishi achieved cult status with the Pajero in most markets it sold. This vehicle is respected world over for its phenomenal off-road capabilities. The first Pajero was born in short wheelbase guise in 1982 which has evolved into the 4th generation Pajero, labeled as Montero in Indian market. It’s sold and confused via various names in multiple markets, not many may know that its name is based on a South American species of Mountain cats. It is sold in different guises as the Challenger in Australia, Pajero Sport in Europe, Montero Sport in North America, South America and the Philippines, Nativa in parts of Central America and the Middle East, Shogun Sport in the United Kingdom, and G-Wagon in Thailand.

According to official website, the name 'Mitsubishi' refers to three-diamond emblem. 'Mitsubishi' is a combination of the words 'mitsu' and 'hishi.' 'Mitsu' means three. 'Hishi' means water chestnut, and the word is used to denote a rhombus or diamond shape. As customary, 'hishi' is pronounced 'bishi' when it forms a latter part of a word, hence the combination of 'mitsu' and 'hishi' reads 'Mitsubishi'." The Pajero Sport took birth in 1996, while the second generation came out in 2008. The Indian market has on offer a 2.5 Turbo Diesel with VGT while globally its available with a plethora of engine options. The current Pajero sport is based on the Triton pickup truck, also known as L200, Strada, Warrior, Sportero, Hunter in different regions. Someone could write a very uninteresting and confusing book on how many names the same vehicle can be baptized with worldwide and in some cases for good reasons.

But amidst all the naming confusion one thing that is common to all of the above is an unparalleled off-road lineage - it’s no wonder hence the Pajero has had the most success in Dakar rallies (the Mecca of off-road endurance run) including an unprecedented 7 straight wins between 2001 and 2007. It is this endurance and durability that has helped Mitsubishi achieve a cult status with its SUVs and a legion of diehard fans. The learning, the lessons, the grueling engineering that goes behind lasting a Dakar rally leave aside winning is clearly incorporated in all Mitsubishi vehicles. Of course, Dakar vehicles hardly share a part with the conventional production models(in non stock categories), however the engineering lessons do carry over in a production guise and that is very evident.

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New Generation Pajero Sport made its way into India in 2012, replacing ageing work horse, the Pajero SFX. Pajero SFX was one of the most famous celebrity vehicles in India since the last century. As a famed import, it was more of a status symbol in the 90s than an off road marauder though. The Pajero Sport anniversary edition launched one year later in 2013 to mark the completion of an year, our road test focuses on this anniversary edition model. It’s the only Mitsubishi which is now being assembled in India, Montero(at the time of print) is still a CBU while the rest of the models have been discontinued.

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport comes with one engine option and sold in single variant only: 2.5-litre 16 valve, intercooled turbocharged DOHC common rail DI-D engine, giving a maximum output of 178 PS and a massive 400 NM of torque. The vehicle has been designed grounds-up with the primary motivation being to build a fast off-roader. There are many good off-roaders but a very few fast and real good off-roaders are rolled into one package. This is where the Pajero Sport shines.

The inside story of the design, motivation and purpose behind this SUV we call Pajero.
PAJERO SPORT - Inside Story - YouTube​

 

[Iron Rock]

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport: Looks and Design

The Pajero sports a distinctive look than any SUV that you would typically compare, including high-end soft-roaders for that matter. It’s aerodynamic and muscular and the same time. The typical rectangular butch look is what you would associate with most 4x4 SUVs, but that’s not the case with this car. While it still carries the trademark Mitsubishi grille/bonnet slope which is seen in Mitsubishi sedans, it does so with class and panache. It’s not as butch as the main competitor, Fortuner but still retains a class and charm of its own. Upfront there is a big Mitsubishi logo in chrome alongside the chrome grill; projector headlamps and fog lamps are standard and gel well with muscular stance.

The minimalistic design also ensures a great approach angle and you could nearly see half the tire diameter from the front of the car. Fog lamps are silver accentuated matching the fibre bumper underneath. The side stance is heavily accentuated, thanks to the huge wheel arches and a very cheesy Pajero Sport sticker which covers both the door areas. The side step is an important feature (standard) to conveniently climb up into this gigantic vehicle. Senior citizens will have some testing time here. The wheel arches are massive and it helps in a big way in off road articulation scenarios.

The window area is large and gives it an airy feel internally as well. However, even though the looks are muscular the Pajero has the least width in its class (or even compared to the classes below). Though thanks to effective space utilization, this doesn't impact the fact that 3 can sit comfortably in the second row. The wheel base is longest in its class which has a good say in the overall dynamics and stability department. Roof rails further add to the aerodynamic look. The doors are large and shut with precision, heavy as well. The second row door is smugly integrated with the wheel arches and when you open it, the arch underside comes with it. Neat.

The tail gate especially feels heavy and while it lifts up on hydraulic struts, pulling it down needs effort and that’s when one realizes that this thing is built like a Patton tank. The rear is probably least attractive facade to look at, it comes with a single exhaust, a rudimentary but sturdy pipe without chrome embellishment (the muffler seen in the image is an aftermarket fitment), the rear spoiler probably saves the day here. The Anniversary Edition is badged at the rear. The rear bumper insert is painted in body colour instead of black in the Anniversary Edition. Reverse indicator lights are neatly integrated in the bumper along with the sensors and reverse camera. The spare tyre is seen in the rear view as its hard to hide the 265 profile underneath.

The 12 spoke 17 inch alloy wheels look beautiful and are shod with 265/65 R17 Apollo Hawkz A/T tires. A/T tires come as standard which is a welcome refreshing change though some more brand options would have been welcome. The big tires add to the brute looks and stance. The build quality is exceptional and the Mitsubishi engineering shows - panel gaps are minimal and fit / finish quality is durable and built to last.

 

[Iron Rock]

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport: Interiors and Comfort

The interior is typical Mitsubishi, its built tough, and meant to last, nothing overdone but quintessentially classic. Everything about a Pajero is about being taut and durable. Its black and beige dual tone combination along with beige seats, actually more than enough beige to appease us Indians. The Anniversary Edition does get an all integrated DVD/Navigation unit but it looks aftermarket in the scheme of things. The silver-chrome embellishments add to the classy panache. Wood finish is especially high quality. The dual din touchscreen however takes up the space of the very useful MID - yes, the Anniversary Pajero Sport does not come with a MID as standard which is a serious miss for 25+ lakh SUV. However the model we are testing has the same MID fitted additionally at the bottom below the AC buttons. So as part of the review we will share the details of this MID - however please note it doesn't come as standard in the Anniversary Edition model.

The steering comes with back and silver finish and controls to navigate the touch screens, the Kenwood software allows buttons to be programmed for different uses which is a handy thing as buttons are limited in number. The steering is the proven rack and pinion set up with tilt adjustable but not telescopic. The dash hosts the speedo, tachometer, fuel gauge and temperature gauge along side a super select indicator and host of other general warning signs. The Super Select indicator reflects the mode in which the vehicle is being driven eg:- 2H, 4H , 4HLc.More about this in the 4x4 section. There are two trip meters embedded in the LC display within the analogue speedo dials.

The 6.1 inch touchscreen unit is Kenwood and sound quality is generally excellent though ICE lovers will ask for more bass. The integrated unit has mapmyindia navigation and can play DVDs apart from the usual, it has USB and Aux in inputs as well. The GPS antenna is placed o the left corner of the dash while the microphone is placed near the IRVM. Reverse camera is also integrated within. More details of the unit can be looked up here. There are reverse sensors as well which give an audible warning alongside the visual display. The reverse sensors can be switched off manually from the dash and can be configured to work differently in case you are towing.

ACC is very good and does the job of chilling the cabin very well. The analogue dials for ACC gives it retro classic looks. The front dash has 6 AC vents. The overall dashboard is minimalistic in that sense and the vehicle as a whole is low on features/electronics. There is a rear fan on/off switch which can be operated from the front dash. Roof mounted controls are present for the second row to manage flow intensity, Apart from the roof AC vents there are also AC vents beneath the front seats. The rear cooler can also be operated in blower mode if the ac is not on.

The MID which doesnt come as standard in the Anniversary Edition shows a plethora of useful information from Fuel Economy, Range, Altimeter, Barometer, Time & Date, Temperature, Direction of driving along side graphs to add to the visual appeal. Ideally it would have been nice to have this neatly integrated with the Touch screen unit itself. The information is pretty accurate though. From the Pajero SFX though this one misses the inclinometer, which off-roaders enjoy watching and bragging about. The party piece or the USP of the Pajero Sport is the Super Select gearbox. There has two gear levers to operate hence, one the conventional gearbox and other the Super select modes.

The front seats are extremely comfortable and plush, the driver seat comes with electric adjustments for height/position/recline etc. The front passenger seat is manually operated. Ingress and egress is generally a climbing affair as the Pajero floor sits tall. The seats are well contoured around the sides and literally wrap you in comfort.

The second row seats also recline and are adjustable to improve further leg room for the third row. The second row seat is good enough for sitting 3 with enough leg room, though thigh support could be marginally better, also the middle passenger has to deal with a mild centre hump. Pajero Sport has one of the least width in the segment and this does affect the width of the second row seat slightly. Roof mounted AC vents ensure the cabin is adequately chilled and the fan controls are present on the roof switches as well.

Third row as with most SUVs sits pretty low, so not a place for tall people. But someone 5 feet 8 and below can sit comfortably for a few hours. As the second row sits on rails, there can be plenty of leg space adjusted for the 3rd row. Kids would be very comfortable in the third row. The third row also reclines and has separate roof vents which add to the comforts in a limited way. There is a charging point and cup holder available for the third row as well.

 

[Iron Rock]

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport: Engine, Performance and Handling

The Mitsubishi Pajero Sport is powered by a 2477cc 16 valve intercooled turbocharged DOHC common rail DI-D engine churning out 131w (178ps) @ 4000 rpm. It generates a humongous class leading torque of 400 Nm at 2000 – 2500 rpm. This engine with the Super Select gearbox sets up the Pajero Sport, add to it dynamics of an impeccable nature for a BOF SUV - now we are talking what is the real USP of the Pajero. It wont impress anyone with its feature list, but it could blow off someone with its dynamics, ride quality and off course the legendary off-road prowess.

While the Pajero Sport 0-100kmph timing is pretty decent in the 12 sec range, however the torque spread isnt linear, at the low end the turbo lag is felt, but once in the turbo zone, its rockets and hence the mid range is punchy. A speed chime/alert comes at over 120kmph. The ECU hardly intrudes in terms of keeping the revs high or controlling throttle(when not on throttle), which means its under pure driver control. Body roll at cornering does exist but nothing that could be termed as scary even for fast corners, dynamically its the best SUV in the sub 30 L 4x4 BOF class. The bottom half of the vehicles grips the surface like a leech, so even when the body sways you will be surprised with the grip it continues to offer.

The handling and ride quality too is unparalleled. The vehicle has been built grounds up as a fast off-roader and that is one thing it does really well. Its ability to handle bad roads and smother the rough is brilliant, even the biggest of potholes have the least impact. Usually an owner would cringe when his vehicle hits a pothole at speeds, but in the Pajero the reaction would be of one more conquered and best part is there is no after effect of passing through pot hole, it remains arrow straight and super stable. However and even though this is one of the USP of the vehicle, in the interest of general suspension life this should not be a recommended driving style.

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Ground clearance is a good 215mm with great all round angles (approach, departure, etc.) for the class and size. The 5 speed gearbox is smooth and mushy, throws are medium and direct. The gear lever vibrates slightly when starting and settles down then to mild massager mode - with time you might actually enjoy this . The shifts are smooth and the engine noise(at idle) from inside is barely audible, from the inside it feels very refined and this is to also do with the sound deadening and general build quality of the vehicle. The clutch is heavy duty though and requires effort, this wont be the easiest SUV to hence drive in city traffic. The 70 litre tank gives it long distance cruising capability and we noticed during the review process the MID information in regards to FE is pretty close to accurate. At cruising speeds you will make out there is a diesel heart underneath, but nothing untoward and alarming.

The chassis has been upgraded from the older gen and looks massive and can handle any abuse thrown at it. The front suspension is a Double wishbone with coil spring while the rear is 3 link + coil spring, with stabilizer bars at both ends. The abuse handling capability this gives to the Pajero is massive and this is what differentiates it from the rest. This thing is built to handle some really testing conditions in bone stock condition. The steering is direct and taut, it requires more effort than usual compared to over-servoed systems, however the benefit is the control it gives and the feedback. Brakes (ABS with EBD) are phenomenal with the front being 16" discs and rear 16" ventilated drum-in-discs, even the hand brake performs viciously. It performs without fuss and stops in a straight line even in harsh braking. Simply put, stability is in its DNA.

 

[Iron Rock]

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport: 4x4 Prowess

This is what the car is built for, this is the USP and at the centre of it the party piece is the Mitsubishi Super Select 4WD system. Super Select or Active Trac as its known in some markets is Mitsubishi's brand name for its 4WD systems. Over the years Mitusbishi have developed several different versions of this - at the heart of it , this along with the superb suspension has earned Mitsubishi unprecedented and unmatched Dakar rally victories.

The Pajero Sport employs the Super Select System which has 4 modes :-

• 2H (2WD HIGH RANGE)
• 4H (4WD HIGH RANGE)
• 4HLc (4WD HIGH RANGE WITH LOCKED CENTER DIFFERENTIAL)
• 4LLc (4WD LOW RANGE WITH LOCKED CENTER DIFFERENTIAL)

The Mitsubishi underbody is Patton tank build quality, quite a lot of metal protection to take those off-road hits.

The vehicle can be driven in 2WD as well as 4WD mode, in 2H mode, power is only transferred to the rear axle while the front simply free wheels. The Pajero Sport has a central differential with a Viscous Coupling unit (VCU)- this is employed to transfer power to the front axle as well in variety of modes. With the VCU there is no physical connection to the front axle, the VCU uses dilatant fluid which based on the shear nearly goes solid- the viscosity of the medium is essentially used to transmit torque to the front axle.

2H Mode :- All torque/power is transmitted to the rear wheels only, this is the normal recommended mode of driving for tarred roads, its also more fuel efficient and puts the least strain on the drive train. In this mode the dash display shows 2 green lights on the rear axle.

4H Mode :- In this mode the VCU is employed to transfer torque dynamically to the front wheels as well with a ratio of 50:50 (front/rear torque split). This mode is recommended for slightly slippery conditions and wet roads, it can used for dry terrain as well for a dynamic edge and grip benefit. It gives great control and high speed cornering benefits. The best part is there is no damage to drive train should you chose to use this on dry terrain (apart from regular wear). In this mode the dash display shows 2 green lights on each of the axle. It can blink temporarily while the operation is in progress.

4HLc Mode :- In this mode centre differential is locked, which means both front and rear axles will be forced to rotate at the same speed, this is immensely useful in off-road conditions. Please note this mode is only to used in rugged off-road terrain (eg:- snow/slush/ loose gravel/slippery surfaces) i.e conditions where the tires will slip. If used in dry tarmac it can cause some serious drive train damage also known as transmission wind up. Also steering would get very hard if used in non slippery surfaces, if you notice notice tight corner braking (a feel of braking while cornering) you should straighten or move out of this mode. Use it with caution and the Pajero Sport can get you through some really tough terrain. In this mode the dash display shows 2 green lights on each of the axle + an orange light along the centre differential to show it is locked. It can blink temporarily while the operation is in progress.

4LLc Mode :- This is a further extension of the 4HLc mode with the added benefit of extreme torque been available for very sticky situations eg:- deep snow, sticky slush, extreme climbs/descent etc. This low ratio gives the Pajero Sport a Patton tank type crawling capability on some really tough terrain. Again use it with caution as all the above risks apply to this mode as well. To move in and out of this mode, the vehicle should be fully stopped and with the main gear in neutral , the super select lever should be operated with the clutch depressed. The Pajero sport produces a class leading 400Nm torque to get the passengers out of really bad terrain, this is also immensely useful to haul carriages offroad.

The below image shows all the angles that the Pajero Sport can deal with in off-road conditions

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Also this image provides the torque curve of the behemoth, pretty much summarizing where the power band lies

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Scientific data like impressive torque numbers, GC advantage , Approach/Ramp over/Departure angles, gearbox ratios, chunky off-road tires with massive treads, power to weight ratio etc mostly always help a vehicle become a good off-roader, but that apart its also how power is transmitted to the wheels, how traction is gained over some impossible surfaces , the weight balance over the axles , the suspension dynamics and behavior, the balance between on and off-road drive-ability - This is where the Pajero Sport strikes largely the right balance which is why it is so good that legions of fan still swear by it - add to that Japanese reliability!

Pajero Sport is renowned world over for its ability to off-road, its ability to take abuse over harsh terrains and survive, and its durability across any situation thrown at it. In Russia/Siberia its used to plough snow in remote places and gain back the roads, in the Australian outbacks and South African trails its used to haul caravans and heavy drag implements through some really harsh off-road terrain. It is this ability of the Pajero Sport which has given it cult status world wide. Its a legend in its own right with an unparalleled lineage.

 

[Iron Rock]

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport: Safety, Fuel Efficiency and Verdict

If you look at it superficially, the Pajero Sport does not boast of much safety kit on paper for something which costs 25+ lakh. It has ABS + EBD and 2 front Air Bags. Even ESP is not provided in the Indian version , though its present in foreign shores. Mitsubishi however has built the car tough including plenty of use of reinforced steel (they call it RISE - Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution), crumple zones, collapsible steering column, and anti intrusive brake pedal. T
Seat belts are height adjustable. The intrinsic body construction ensures a rigid frame and the stress forces to dissipate out rather than inwards towards the passengers. More would have been welcome though may be by means of a 6 air bag version!

As per ASEAN NCAP it scores a 4 star rating. Here is the video :-

ASEAN NCAP - Mitsubishi Pajero Sport - 4 stars in frontal offset crash test - YouTube​

ARAI rates the Pajero Sport FE numbers at 12.8 kmpl.

The Pajero Sport is an iconic vehicle - there is no question about it. Its a success in many markets abroad and comes with a lineage few can challenge though in India the mighty Fortuner from Toyota reigns. Both of them when compared come with their own strengths; while Toyota has a massive after sales and service network in India, Mitsubishi/HM is nearly non existing apart from in major cities. Given this factor largely and the initial CBU pricing it hasn't set the sales register on fire and this is the biggest issue facing HM/Mitsubishi. The price premium is no longer a worry as its now CKD instead of the previous CBU prices, so theoretically and with the available discounts(at times?) the Pajero Sport does come cheaper than the Toyota Fortuner on road.

As a vehicle though, its a thorough bred and comes with a reputation, is not high on features, has no electronic gizmos but pure unadulterated macho-ness on the build front. Its not the easiest SUV to drive thanks to the heavy clutch and taut steering but its gives the best feedback and driving experience, the best ride quality and a super stable suspension. It appeals more to the heart - it bonds with the driver and is a purist's car. There is nothing artificial about it - its basic, raw, rugged, built like a tank with go anywhere capability, no electronic shift on the fly but a manual 4x4 gearbox which Mitsubishi calls Super Select. Its not for those who seek features and gizmos, its for those who seek adventure and driving pleasure.

The big question remains though - can Mitsubishi up the ante in India in the after sales and service areas - can they broaden their reach geographically? Can they convince a customer that they are with them should there be any support needed ? After a detailed TD this is the only doubt a potential owner is going to have and admittedly its indeed a big risk, if you are a purist though it has to be a Pajero Sport. Pricing could be a little more attractive through CKD move and price cut was very welcome.

We generally rate VFM factor with what we see, does it have enough features for the price, but for some vehicles its the factor that we don't necessarily see visually - the durability, the robust engineering with plenty of safety margins built within every component whether its the engine, the drive train, a bush, suspension or just a clip holding a hose in the engine bay. Its what it can do on and off road that makes it a Mitsubishi Pajero Sport!

 

[Iron Rock]

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport: Likes, Dislikes and Star Ratings

You'll Love:

> Just the name and lineage that it carries, the reputation it has built over the years.

> Phenomenal top of the class ride quality on any kinds of roads or no roads. This thing can rally off-road.

> Built for life with every part reeking quality, reliable and exceptional Mitsubishi engineering.

> Unparalleled off-road prowess and exceptional capability of the Super Select 4WD system.

> Epic driving dynamics for a old school BOF vehicle, the best handling and driving 7 seater true 4x4 SUV sub 30L.


You'll Loathe:

> Mitsubishi/HM after sales and service and presence across India is a major question mark - what is the future commitment?

> A heavy clutch which you will find city driving especially a bit cumbersome.

> Lack of features (cruise control etc.) and especially the MID which has been dropped for the sake of touch screen unit.

> Turbo lag initially and the need to downshift - you will eventually learn to get over this by staying in the power band.

> Thigh Support in the second row could be marginally better. Overall for tall passengers seats arent that good.

The Ratings:

> Design and Quality........................:

> Comfort and Features...................:

> Engine and Performance...............:

> Handling and Ride Quality.............:

> Off-Road Performance...................:

> Safety and Security Levels............:

> Overall Fuel Consumption.............:

> Sales and Service Network...........:

> Value For Money Factor................:

> The Automotive India's Verdict.....:

 

[Iron Rock]

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport: Technical Specifications

Dimensions and Weights:

> Wheel base, 2800mm

> Overall width, 1815mm

> Overall length, 4695mm

> Overall height, 1840mm

> Min. ground clearance, 215mm

> Maximum GVW, 2710kg

> Kerb weight, 2065kg

> Towing Capacity 1500kg (braked)

> Boot Capacity with only 3rd Row Seats down 1149 litres

> Boot Capacity with 2nd and 3rd Row Seats down 1776 litres

Engine

> Type2.5L 16 Valve intercooled turbocharged DOHC common rail DI-D

> Displacement - 2477cc

> Max. Engine output, kW (PS) @ rpm131 (178) @ 4000

> Max. Torque, Nm @ rpm - 400 Nm at 2000 – 2500 rpm

Performance

> Departure angle, 25deg

> Ramp Break over angle, 23deg

> Approach angle, 36deg

> Lateral turning angle, 45deg

> Maximum gradeability, 35deg deg. (tanθ=0.7)

> Min. turning circle radius, 5.6m

Drive System

> Super Select 4WD

Transmission

> Type/Model Floor Shift, Manual operated, Synchromesh

> No. of gears 5 Forward ; 1 Reverse

Suspension

> Front Double wishbone with coil spring suspension

> Rear 3 link, coil spring suspension

> Front & Rear Stabilizer bars

Steering

> Rack & Pinion power assisted steering

> Low Tilt steering column

Brakes

> Front 16" ventilated discs

> Rear 16" ventilated drum-in-discs

> Type Hydraulic operated on all 4 wheels; 2 circuits front and rear split

Wheels and Tyres

> Wheel Rim size 17x7.5 JJ Alloy

> Tyre size 265/65R17

Fuel Tank

> Capacity, 70L

Pajero Sport Pricing

> 23,91,000 INR (Ex.showroom, across India)

Price Comparison

> Toyota Fortuner 4x4 Manual / Anniversary Edition: 23,58,557 / 24,34,557

> Mitsubishi Pajero Sport Anniversary Edition: 23,91,000

> Mahindra Ssanyong Rexton MT: 19,11,918

> Hyundai Sante Fe 4WD MT: 27,75,650

- All prices ex-showroom Mumbai.

Suggestions To Mitsubishi Motors:

> Given the amount of torque/power the vehicle has, it deserves a better gearbox - a six speed gearbox will help in managing the torque spread much better along side a better tuned turbo.

> Cruise Control should be given as standard, its a straight fit from the Thailand model apparently and hardly costs anything - on modern Indian highways this is indeed a very useful feature.

> Small attention to details like folding ORVM mirrors on locking the car and auto locking of all doors once the vehicle starts moving is very essential in a modern day car.

> Optional Sun/Moon roof would be welcome.

> Automatic version is long over due.

> All integrated MID and dual din touch screen is needed. MID is essential in a 25L+ vehicle.

> Clutch could be lighter

> Better choice of tyres (and accessories) from the showrooms could add to the fun of buying an off-road vehicle

> More safety features (and including more versions) including traction control would be very welcome

 

[Iron Rock]

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport: Pictorial Review

The 3 pointed diamond/rhombus, big prominent logo in the front

Conservatively butch/squat typical Mitsubishi look

Posing off the road

For the love of chrome, the front has it!

Front projector headlamps

Slanted grill on the top and a honeycomb grill on the bottom

Plenty of sound deadening materials in the bonnet as well of along door side fillers

Chunky AT tires make it look macho, 265/65 R17 Appollo Hawkz A/T comes as standard fitment, not the best off-road tyre but atleast an A/T. 12 Spoke Alloys look nice.

Large ORVMs provide a nice view of the roads beside

Rear tail lamp - a quirky design

Pajero Sport badging at the rear

Massive rear wheel arches - adding to the macho personality. Also helps in off-roading in terms of giving immense articulation benefits.

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[Iron Rock]

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport: Pictorial Review

The prominent wide stickers along the doors in the anniversary edition

No printed stuff but an old school radio antenna for the Pajero

Reinforced roof with roof rails

The sensors seem aftermarket as they are not body color, reverse lights are neatly integrated in the bumper, the muffler however is not standard fitment but an aftermarket accessory. The tow hook girth and quality is phenomenal, tie the moon behind it and haul it off-road literally.

Fake wood inserted finish in the dash and doors, alongside silver/chrome trim, quality is high though wood finish makes it look retro

Chunky Steering wheel, feels precise and direct, buttons can be configured to the Kenwood unit as per driver needs

The Kenwood all integrated Dual DIN starts up with a Mitsubishi logo

MID retrofitted in the console below the ACC controls, please note this is not part of the standard Anniversary edition model

Rear Blower Switch along with a switch to switch off rear sensors, two modes for the sensor including a mode for towing caravans as the pajero sport is used for towing large loads in many parts

Triple dials on the dash showing the speedo, rpm and fuel/temperature gauges, embedded lcd has 2 trip meters as well. Super Select indicator to the left of the fuel gauge.

Controls for the electric ORVM adjuster and the front beam adjustment beside the steering stalk on the left

Head Lamp and fog lamps control - the high beam is activated by upward push to this stalk and deactivated again by a upward push. Short push will lead to momentary flash.

Front and rear wiper wash and wipe controls

Front seats are very comfortable for long journeys, driver seats are electrically adjutable for all movements while passenger seat has manual adjustment

Seats are beige leather and pleasing - good quality, but dust magnets

Driver doors with the central locking and power windows function, bottle and purse holders are standard, wood treatment makes it look plush.

Fuel and Bonnet opening lever under the steering - you will need to remember which is which as its not clearly visible unless the driver bends down, much needed dead pedal also in place. The OBD2 port is present left of the fuel hatch.

Standard floor mats are Pajero Sport branded



Glovebox is illuminated and average size

Dashboard plastics very well made and finished

Sun Glass holder beside the IRVM, lights for the front row alongside with push buttons

IRVM provides a ok view but its a large vehicle so cameras/sensors are must

Passenger side Sunvisor with a mirror

The centre armrest with a couple of cup holders (including a removable ash try) and the hand brake beside - the arm rest is decent but could have been an inch longer towards the front or slid-able.

The arm rest open at two levels, one a shallow card/purse holder and other a deep box including a 12v charger hosted within

Adequate Leg room in the second row

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[Iron Rock]

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport: Pictorial Review

Ingress/Egress to the third row can be done by folding either or both of the middle row seats, generally its a climbing affair in the Pajero as the floor sits high

Second row door with a bottle holder and a purse/card holder, the light in the door will also be visible at night to vehicles behind when door opened and also act as puddle lamps

Third row has adequate leg room as the second row is adjustable, however it sits low, best for children or short adults. Picture below with the minimum leg room with a 5 8 kid .

Min/Max third row leg room with a 5.8 feet individual after adjusting the second row.

Even the third row back reclines adding to the comfort

With the second row folded in case you want to stretch out

Cup holders for the third row along with a cubby hole, notice seat belt holders and how neatly they are placed to prevent seat belt clatter

Both second and third row have roof mounted vents for effective cooling all round - if i am forced to complain on quality the only thing that comes to my mind is the AC vents, the plastic could have been slightly better

A general plush all beige look throughout the seat rows, beige color is light and will be hard to maintain i.e keep dust free and clean.

Roof mounted lamps exist for all 3 rows

Roof hosted handles with coat hangers, again very good quality and useful is off-road conditions

Second row gets its own blower control, wheile there is a switch at the front as well for switching on or off



Large Boot space when second and third row seats are folded

12V socket in the third row

Cubby hole behind the third row where the hydraulic jack and tool kit is neatly anchored

Underbody shots of the Pajero Sport highlighting the chassis, differentials, transfer case, suspension components, breathers, stabilizer bars etc

Night shots

​

 

[Iron Rock]

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport: Pictorial Review

MID views showing fuel, range, altitude, pressure, direction etc

Reverse camera integrated with the kenwood unit



Low Beam

High Beam

+ Fog Light

The Kenwood unit remote



A very ordinary looking key with door/unlock function



Posing with the Safari

Alongside a soft-roading cousin

With the arch rival and global nemesis, in the Indian market though the Fortuner rules

​

 

[Iron Rock]

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport: Videos

Exterior Walk Around

Interior Video

 

[350Z]

Re: Mitsubishi Pajero Sport Test Drive Review

Note: Thread Now Live.

Drive Safe,
350Z

 

[draneeshpm]

Re: Mitsubishi Pajero Sport Test Drive Review

Hi Iron Rock,
That was a stunner of a review!I never knew that Pajero was a good handler.Wish it came with an automatic box,my friend was looking for one,could have cajoled him to buy one and get a test drive!For the time being I will have to satisfy myself by drooling over the pictures you have posted.

Regards,
Aneesh.