2018 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 2018 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.

2018 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 2018 Mitsubishi Pajero has a utilitarian cabin with pleasant leather touches. The first row has sufficient headroom and legroom and the seats can be reclined to match a desired preference. The second row has comfy seats with ample knee room and headroom. The third-row seat is only suitable for kids.

Cabin Storage

The 2018 Mitsubishi Pajero encompasses several 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 2018 Mitsubishi Pajero has a sizeable cargo area that can accommodate small and large luggage. If more space is needed, the second and third-row seats can be folded.

Exterior

The 2018 Mitsubishi Pajero has a boxy and muscular appearance. The front end of the Pajero has a dynamic shield grille that asserts its dominance on the road. LED daytime running lights and headlights lend it a contemporary look. The lower fascia has air vents that aid in cooling the radiator which in turn cools the engine. The ruggedness of the Pajero is not limited to the front end only as its side profile has flared wheel arches, a signature look it has maintained over the years. Running boards come as standard to aid passengers in either boarding the car or alighting.

Higher trim levels of the Pajero come standard with an electronically controlled sunroof that ensures there is ambient lighting in this  SUV. Roof rails and the roof spoiler enhance the overall design language of the Pajero. A spare tire is attached to a huge tailgate that opens to the side. Tail lights and indicators neatly add some beauty to the Pajero. Other features that come as standard in this SUV include parking sensors and a reverse camera.

2018 Mitsubishi Pajero Safety Features

The 2018 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 forward collision mitigation.

2018 Mitsubishi Pajero Fuel Consumption

2018 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.0 L petrol engine consumption- 8.4 km/l on average

2018 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.8 L petrol engine consumption- 7.5 km/l on average

2018 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 L diesel engine consumption- 10.2 km/l on average

2018 Mitsubishi Pajero Acceleration

2018 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.0 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.5 secs

2018 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.8 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 9.0 secs

2018 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 L diesel engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 9.6 secs

The 2018 Mitsubishi Pajero Fuel Tank Capacity: 88 liters

Ground Clearance: The 2018 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 they are sometimes expensive. Service parts are fairly affordable and easy to find within Nairobi and other major towns.

Stability And Handling

The 2018 Mitsubishi Pajero is well known for its solid and pleasant ride. It has a body-on-frame construction that provides a solid and robust handling that enhances its stability. Its steering wheel is not only telescopic but also power-assisted hence it adapts very well to road curvature and this is well proved when maneuvering in confined spaces. Its robust suspension system allows it to be driven in extreme off-road terrains while at the same time protecting passengers from experiencing jerky movements for it effectively absorbs bumpy surfaces. The Pajero comes standard with a super-select 4WD system that allows a driver to interchange gears depending on the terrain one is driving on whether on mud, gravel, or even sand.

When approaching sharp corners, it is recommended to slow down because the Pajero experiences 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 not forgetting its advanced traction control systems allow it to be driven in extreme off-road terrains. Cruise control and traction control are incorporated into the Pajero to aid in improving its stability.

Reliability

The 2018 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 2018 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 2018 Mitsubishi Pajero

Good visibility

Off-road capability

Excellent towing capacity

Good ground clearance

What we don’t

Cramped third-row seat

Conclusion

The 2018 Mitsubishi Pajero ticks all the boxes when it comes to an ideal SUV. However, it leans more on off-road capabilities compared to when driving in town or on highways. It offers a good blend of practicality, versatility, and a spacious cabin. Its visibility is very good and not only does it give the driver a commanding view of what lies ahead, but passengers can also enjoy a good scenery drive. Owing to its high purchase price, individuals on a tight budget may not afford to buy it. Click here to download a copy of the 2018 Mitsubishi Pajero Owner’s Manual.