The Iconic Mitsubishi Pajero: A Comprehensive Guide

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A slightly updated monocoque chassis was employed, utilizing Mitsubishi’s RISE technology from the preceding model.The Iconic Mitsubishi holds a special place in the hearts of off-road aficionados. Undoubtedly, Pajero has set the standard for monocoque body structure in the 4×4 off-road big SUV sector for everyone. It has reinvented the 4WD since 1983, from Dakar to the Outback. An Australian off-road icon capable of taking on the most difficult 4WD trials. 

In addition, Super Select 4WD with a lockable transfer case provides improved grip on bitumen surfaces for enhanced control. And don’t forget, it was the Pajero that pioneered independent rear suspension in the mass market large off-road SUV segment, when rigid axles were the norm. This kind of foresight is fundamental to Mitsubishi DNA. If you’re looking for a used Mitsubishi Pajero in the UAE and want to buy or sell a car, platforms like CarSwitch can assist you in finding the right vehicle that meets your needs and preferences.

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Different stages of the great Pajero

The Mitsubishi Pajero is a full-size SUV (sport utility vehicle) produced and sold by Mitsubishi over four generations, beginning in 1981 and ending in 2021. In its 40-year history, the Pajero has sold over 3.3 million units. The Pajero Sport, centered on the Mitsubishi Triton/L200/Strada, will carry the moniker forward. Despite its title, the Pajero Sport shares none of the fundamentals of the original Pajero and is shorter in overall dimension.

Mitsubishi advertised the SUV with the name Montero in North America, Spain, and Latin America (apart from Brazil and Jamaica) partly because of the term “pajero” being pejorative (meaning “wanker”) in Spanish. In the United Kingdom, it was referred to as the Shogun, following the Japanese term for “General.” The model was phased out in North America in 2006.

The Mitsubishi PX33 prototype, procured by the Japanese government in 1934, is the origin of the Pajero. Mitsubishi  initially introduced the Pajero prototype at the Tokyo Motor Show in November 1973, accompanied five years later by the Pajero II prototype. The initial extraction version of the Pajero lineage premiered at the 1981 Tokyo Motor Show before going on sale in 1982. The Pajero was first advertised as a luxury vehicle that was both durable and capable, similar to the Land Rover Range Rover or Toyota Land Cruiser of the time.

Overview

On September 30th, 2006, the fourth iteration Mitsubishi Pajero was unveiled at the Paris Auto Show. The 2015 Mitsubishi Pajero is Mitsubishi Motors’ flagship SUV, available in a choice of 3-door and 5-door versions. The 5-door version is available in GLS, GLX Package, and GL trim levels. GLS and GLX packages are available for the 3-door.

Exterior

Overall, the fourth generation was not very different from the final models of the third generation. The structure surrounding the wheel rims is the same, but the third generation has a wider and flared appearance. Prior to its sale, Mitsubishi upgraded the front end of the 2015 Pajero, incorporating changes to the fascia and front grille. Additionally, they introduced LED daytime running lights along with the installation of a new spare tire cover. The 5-door version retains the relaxed stance but has an innovative body design and protruding lower half. The front headlamps and grille combine to form a semi-wrapped panel.

Interior

The interior design, fabric, and color palette vary according to the amount of doors. The Mitsubishi Mini Pajero 3-door comes standard with gray cloth seats and a gray dashboard with traces of wood printed designs. The interior of the 5-door is predominantly beige. The GLS and GLX 5-doors have beige cloth seats and a two-tone black and gray dashboard, whilst the base GL has gray seats and a gray dashboard.

The majority of modern technologies, such as SAT-NAV, parking detectors, keyless unlocking, and multimedia components (including an upgrade option for a 12-speaker system), equip the GLS and GLX models.

Engine

  • MIVEC SOHC 3.8-liter 24-valve V6
  • ECI-MULTI 3.5-liter 24-valve V6 SOHC (3-door only)
  • DI-D 3.2-liter 16-valve intercooled turbocharged DOHC
  • 3.0L 24-valve SOHC V6 (5-door only)
  • 5 door only, 2.8-liter 8-valve intercooled turbocharged SOHC diesel

Gearbox

  • 5-speed manual gearbox
  • 5-speed and 4-speed automatic transmissions

Mileage

  • Fuel Tank Capacity = 88 liters (5-door) and 69 liters (3-door)
  • 9 liters per 100 km with the DOHC diesel engine
  • Pajero’s fuel consumption is 2.5km/liter diesel.

Rival Corporations

Toyota Land Cruiser, Nissan Patrol

Generations of Mitsubishi Pajero

First generation (L040; NA, NB, NC, ND, NE, NF, NG; 1982)

The Tokyo Motor Show in October 1981 hosted the world premiere of the first generation, which the Mitsubishi Jeep Delivery Waggon officially replaced in May 1982. Commencing as a three-door, short-wheelbase variant, it provided choices of a metal or canvas top and three engine options, progressively incorporating more, ultimately reaching its pinnacle with a 3.0-liter V6 variant.

Second generation 1999 (V20- / NH, NJ, NK, NL)

Mitsubishi redesigned the Pajeros for the second era, debuting in January 1991 but not distributing them until later that year. They updated and improved almost everything in the process Metal Top, Canvas Top Retractable (short wheelbase), Semi High Roof Waggon, and High Roof Waggon (long wheelbase) were the four various types of the new, larger body. Short-wheelbase vehicles gained an extension of 70 millimeters (2.8 in), while long-wheelbase variants saw an expansion of 30 millimeters (1.2 in).

Third generation 1999 (V60- / NM, NP)

The third generation Pajero, designed in-house, emerged in the Japanese nation-wide market in 1999, then in international markets as a 2001 model in late 2000 — and in the Philippines and other emerging economies in 2003.

In comparison to standard body-on-frame designs, the third generation underwent significant modifications. These changes resulted in a lower and broader stance, integrating a unibody (monocoque) structure with a ladder frame chassis. This combination yielded enhanced torsional rigidity and substantially improved cabin strength.

Fourth generation 2006 (V80- / NS, NT, NW, NX)

The fourth generation made its premiere on September 30, 2006, at the Paris Motor Show under the series code “NS.” It received new interior and external style, as well as dual-stage front airbags and updated side-impact and curtain airbags. A slightly updated monocoque chassis was employed, utilizing Mitsubishi’s RISE technology from the preceding model.

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In conclusion, the iconic Mitsubishi Pajero’s legacy shines brightly in the realm of off-road prowess. From its pioneering monocoque structure and independent rear suspension to its enduring spirit on the toughest trails, the Pajero has truly rewritten the 4×4 narrative. As it evolves through generations, its impact remains unmatched, setting standards, and captivating enthusiasts worldwide. With a heritage that blends innovation, performance, and endurance, the Mitsubishi Pajero rightfully claims its place as a symbol of exploration and adventure.

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