Pajero; A popular SUV
Mitsubishi Pajero comes from a renowned stable of vehicles with a ‘tough go anywhere’ reputation spanning several decades. Mitsubishi ventured into the sports utility vehicle (SUV) market with Pajero as its serious proposition for the adventurous and performance loving motorists.
To emphasise the fact that Pajero was not just a tough looking people mover but a serious four wheel drive SUV, Mitsubishi named it ‘Leopardus Pajeros’ meaning ‘the Pampas Cat’ and ‘Montero’ the ‘mountain hunter’ for the US market.
The Mitsubishi Pajero has four generations which have been built and sold since 1982. In this review ,we take a closer look at the 2005 model third generation Mitsubishi Pajero 3.5 Litre GDI petrol, which is a popular SUV sold on the Ugandan used car market.
Performance
The 3rd generation Pajero, which spans from 2001-2005 offers turbo diesel engines (2.5L 4D56; 2.8L 4M40; 3.2L 4M41) and V6 petrol engines (3.0L 6G72; 3.5L 6G74; 3.5L 6G74 GDI; 3.8L 6G75).
On the Ugandan used car market the 3.5 litre V6 GDI petrol engine is still a popular choice because its 205 horse power (153kw) engine delivers a thrilling and spirited engine performance both on the highway and off road.
The Mitsubishi 3.5L Gasoline direct injection (GDi) engine combines the innovative technology of pressurised gasoline direct injection with Double overhead camshafts (DOHC) valve train.
This works well with the valve timing and electronic lift control (MIVEC) to guarantee ample and timely supply of air and fuel to the combustion process in the six cylinder V6 engine.
The manu-matic transmission allows more driver control of the automatic transmission but also intervenes to rectify inefficient gear selection to better utilise the engine innovations.
This gives the Pajero prompt engine power which has made it one of the most successful SUVs in the grueling Paris – Dakar rally.
Handling
The Pajero’s Super Select 4 (SS4ii) four wheel drive system has electronic low range to high range transfer capability using a combination of software (control modules) and an electronic manipulation of planetary gears. One only needs to push an electric button or push a knob when difficult terrain is encountered. This allows convenient shifting on the move and driver attention to navigation and maneuvering.
The Pajero has impressive on road and off road handling manners due to its lower slung body and wider profile. This gives Pajero a lower centre of gravity which guarantees excellent road holding and stability during high speed cornering. Pajero’s unibody or monocoque integrated chassis structure ensures rigidity and good response to road torsional and dynamic forces during high speed driving and maneuvering. You have to work hard to roll this vehicle off the road.
Safety
Pajero is fitted with Ant-lock brake systems (ABS), front passenger airbags, modern seat belts with inertia reel locking mechanisms and reinforced chassis and body structures. The design and structure of the Pajero III makes it safe and comfortable to drive fast.
Reliability and resale value
Pajero is easier to maintain on the Ugandan market because its slow and fast moving parts are accessible both with the main Mitsubishi dealer and independent suppliers downtown. Used body, engine and suspension parts are also available for the budget constrained buyers. Slower moving parts for the body, engine and suspension are pricy but available.
There are concerns about the reliability of the GDI 3.5 V6 engine as its fuel and air intake system seems to give trouble after 100,000 kms. New owners should not ignore the mandatory 100,000 kms fuel filter replacement or fueling with adulterated fuel usually damages the primary or secondary high pressure pump which affects fuel delivery pressure. Maintain the air cleaner element. This is key for the performance of the GDI system.
style and comfort The styling and design was inspired by the performance of its Pajero Evolution in the Paris-Dakar off road rally. The sculptors of the 3rd generation Pajero continued the evolution from the old ‘tall boxy shape’ with a more aerodynamic sporty look which has pronounced fender flares and swept back headlights.
Pajero interior styling is quite impressive with easy to see dials, knobs and less cheap plastic materials, easy access on side steps as well as roomy interior and comfortable seats.
Pajero is designed with modern comfort amenities such as air conditioning, power windows and radio CD audio entertainment which makes the family road trip comfortable. Pajero offers extra two seats in the third row which allow accommodation of the extended family.
Pajero
2006- 2016 GENERATION IV
While it is true that Pajero IV is a makeover which consolidates the successes of Pajero III, it does bring to the stable a lot of improvements and new options.
1991-1999 GENERATION II
Pajero II came with a more attractive sleeker, more curved longer shape and lower roof profile to improve space and drive ability. It introduced more efficient ECI multi electronic petrol injection and turbo diesel engines.
1982-1991 GENERATION I
First launched as a short wheel base, canvas top before the five door station wagon. The front double wish bone and torsion bar springs made the Pajero i a utilitarian workhorse for.
