The Mitsubishi Pajero IO is a compact SUV that was in production from 1998 to 2007 and it was predecessor to the Pajero Junior. It is larger than the Pajero Mini and they share many similarities especially body design and interior layout. The Pajero IO was moderately successful in Kenya but it was largely overshadowed by the dominant players such as the Nissan X-Trail, Toyota Rav4, Subaru Forester and VW Tiguan. In addition, the earlier models gained a reputation for being thirsty which contributed to the slow uptake and the perception was hard to change over the years.

Pajero IO

Earlier versions were 3-door but this were abolished and the 5-door version was set as standard. It comes with a 1.8-Litre, 4-cylinder direct injection engine that is linked to a 4-Speed automatic transmission and available in 4WD. It’s equipped with a 4WD system that is known as Super Select 4WD-i that is inherited from the larger Pajero that comes with 4 driving modes.

On the inside, the cabin is basic but yet practical with instruments and dials that are neatly arranged. The cabin feels narrow and the seats stiff and set at an upright position. The legroom is decent on both rows but tall people will find the rear space to be a bit tight. The boot space is sufficient for a family of 5 and the rear seats can be folded to create extra space when required.

Pajero IO Dash

Pajero IO Interior

On the outside, the Pajero IO assumes a boxy and tall posture with sharp edges all round. At the front, the headlights are large and rectangular accentuated by optional fog lights on higher grades. The rear is flat with a side hinged tailgate with a large window that gives the driver great rearview visibility.

Pajero IO Rear

Mitsubishi Pajero IO Maintenance Costs In Kenya
The Mitsubishi Pajero IO is an affordable car to maintain and spare parts are fairly priced in Kenya. Body parts are also fairly priced and available in Nairobi.

Mitsubishi Pajero IO Reliability In Kenya
The Mitsubishi Pajero IO is a fairly simple car that runs well and suffers from minimal mechanical issues. The 1.8-Litre engine is a bit thirsty and many owners have complained of inefficiency with age.

Mitsubishi Pajero IO Alternatives you can buy in Kenya: Subaru Forester, Nissan X-Trail, Honda CRV, Toyota Rav-4, Mazda CX-5, Suzuki Vitara and Mitsubishi Outlander.

Price of the Mitsubishi Pajero IO in Kenya: https://cars.topcar.co.ke/vehicles/mitsubishi/pajero-io