2017 Mitsubishi Pajero Review

Detailed Review

Mitsubishi has undergone four generations of production. In 1982, the Pajero commenced its production which continued up to 1991. It was available as a three-door short wheelbase and later on, the five-door long wheelbase was unveiled. The second iteration of the Pajero was in production from 1991 to 1999. In this period, the Pajero was redesigned and had a new and large body. The super select four-wheel drive which was also known as the Active Trac in other markets was introduced.

The third generation of the Pajero was manufactured from 1999 to 2006. It had a lower, wider, and monocoque construction with integrated ladder frame chassis for increased torsional rigidity. The Pajero is currently in its fourth generation.

The 2017 Mitsubishi Pajero comes with three engine options, a 3.0 L 6G72 (Petrol), 3.8 6G75 (Petrol), and a 3.2 L 4M41 (Diesel) linked to a 5-speed automatic transmission.

2017 Mitsubishi Pajero grades

1. Mitsubishi Pajero GLX LWB (4×4)- This entry grade comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, a leather steering wheel, climate control, cruise control, and a 7.0-inch touch screen with a reverse camera and a smartphone mirroring.
2. Mitsubishi Pajero GLS LWB (4×4)- This grade has reverse parking sensors, xenon headlights, automatic wipers, power-adjustment front seats, leather accented bolsters, power windows, a roof spoiler, and Bluetooth connectivity.
3. Mitsubishi Pajero Exceed LWB (4×4)- This grade comes equipped with wood trim on the steering wheel, alloy pedals, an electric sunroof, an automatic high beam, an upgraded alarm, and a premium Rockford Fosgate audio system, with 12 speakers.

Interior

Legroom & Space

The 2017 Mitsubishi Pajero has a simple yet beautiful cabin that depicts an aura of comfort. It has excellent visibility for it gives you a commanding view of the oncoming traffic. The first row offers plenty of legroom and headroom and the seats can be electronically adjusted to fit a desired position. The second row has comfy seats with ample knee room and headroom. The third-row seat just like any other SUV is only ideal for kids as adults will feel crampy and uncomfortable due to the limited space.

Cabin Storage

The 2017 Mitsubishi Pajero features numerous storage compartments that are designed to improve the comfort of the passengers. The first row is fitted with a center console, a glove box compartment, door panel storage, and two cupholders. The second row has two cupholders mounted on the armrest, jacket pockets, and door pockets. Passengers in the third-row seat have access to cupholders.

Boot Space

The 2017 Mitsubishi Pajero has a sizeable cargo area that can haul small to large freight simultaneously. If more space is needed, the second and third-row seats can be retracted.

Exterior

The 2017 Mitsubishi Pajero has a rugged and bold exterior styling. Up front sits a chrome-accented grille with the prominent Mitsubishi badge used to assert its dominance. Its upswept headlights with a built-in projected globe together with the LED daytime running lights that are positioned right next to the fog lights. Another signature look of the Pajero is its flared wheel arches that have been in the previous generations. The side profile has a long wheelbase that in turn results in a more spacious cabin. The door handles, as well as mirror caps, have chrome embellishments. Higher trim levels of the Pajero come standard with an electronically controlled sunroof that ensures there is ambient lighting in this  SUV. Running boards are incorporated to aid passengers in either boarding or alighting the vehicle.

Roof rails and the roof spoiler improve the overall design language of this SUV. The rear end has a large tailgate with the spare tire affixed to it. Rear parking sensors and a reverse camera come as standard. Tail lights and turn signals complete the rear view of the Pajero.

2017 Mitsubishi Pajero Safety Features

The 2017 Mitsubishi Pajero features multiple airbags, traction control, hill start assist, blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, traction control, cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, and cruise control.

2017 Mitsubishi Pajero Fuel Consumption

2017 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.0 L petrol engine consumption- 8.6 km/l on average

2017 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.8 L petrol engine consumption- 7.4 km/l on average

2017 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 L diesel engine consumption- 10.5 km/l on average

2017 Mitsubishi Pajero Acceleration

2017 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.0 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.5 secs

2017 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.8 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 9.2 secs

2017 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 L diesel engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 9.7 secs

The 2017 Mitsubishi Pajero Fuel Tank Capacity: 88 liters

Ground Clearance: The 2017 Mitsubishi Pajero has a ground clearance of 9.0 inches

Service Intervals

Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.

Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.

Spare Parts and Availability

Mitsubishi Pajero spares, especially body parts are not as easily available in Kenya and are sometimes expensive. Service parts are fairly affordable and easy to find within Nairobi and other major towns.

Stability And Handling

The 2017 Mitsubishi Pajero has a sturdy and comfortable ride. Its steering wheel is not only telescopic but also power-assisted hence it adapts very well to road curvature. Its robust suspension system makes it to be respected when it comes to tackling off-road terrains, and at the same time cushions passengers from experiencing any kind of jarring movements. The Pajero boasts a super-select 4WD system that allows a driver to interchange gears depending on the terrain one is cruising on.

When approaching sharp corners, it is advisable to slow down because the Pajero can experience a lot of body roll which affects its cornering abilities. The brakes are robust and are capable of bringing this SUV to a complete halt in a matter of seconds which helps to avert any kind of mishap.

The approach and departure angles of the Pajero plus its high ground clearance allow it to be driven in off-road terrains. Other technologies incorporated in this SUV to improve its stability include traction control and cruise control.

Reliability

The 2017 Mitsubishi Pajero is regarded as a reliable vehicle. It boasts a high ground clearance that allows it to be driven on uneven road surfaces without any worry of damaging its body components. Excessive oil consumption, intake manifold flaps, and software failure are some of the problems reported in the 2017 Mitsubishi Pajero. Regular service and maintenance are required to avoid experiencing such kinds of troubles.

Refer to the Mitsubishi Pajero buyer guide for a thorough reliability report. We also urge that you always follow the instructions in the owner’s manual.

Resale Value: Good

Mitsubishi Pajero Competitors: Land Rover Discovery, Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota Land Cruiser, and Nissan Patrol.

What we like about the 2017 Mitsubishi Pajero

Off-road capability

Excellent towing capacity

Good ground clearance

What we don’t

Cramped third-row seat

Conclusion

The 2017 Mitsubishi Pajero is a reliable SUV that boasts an excellent towing capacity and off-road capability. Its exterior design makes it a good choice for people residing in urban areas as a daily commuter while those in rural areas who value practicality, the Pajero still delivers on that. Its 7-seat configuration appeals to people with big families. Owing to its high acquisition price, folks on a tight budget may not be in a position to own this vehicle not forgetting its service and maintenance which could also be costly. Click here to download a copy of the 2017 Mitsubishi Pajero Owner’s Manual