The new Mitsubishi Pajero Sport prioritises off-road ability, family safety and comfort above a wildly impressive 0-60 figure making it a sensible family car for Southern African travel.
A bit sluggish a first the automatic-transmission isn’t built for quick overtaking, but with plenty of standard luxury features including dusk-sensing headlamps, rearview parking camera and touch-screen infotainment system you won’t be in any great rush.
The Pajero's interior
Once you hit the backroads though, the Pajero really finds its feet easily handling gravel and tackling imposing off-road obstacles.
The new Mitsubishi Pajero climbs the formidable 'Gert se Klip'
At the top of 'Gert se clip'
It’s got great ground clearance – proven on the arduous tracks at De Wildt 4X4 in Magaliesberg – and the manual 4X4 lever has been retained, which I personally prefer but it’s a brave move considering other automatic SUVs and bakkies opt for electronic dials and buttons.
The Pajero is home to seven seats and a good-sized luggage space of 1 149 litres in the boot when the third row of seats is folded flat.
Great amount of boot space
Based on sales figures, the Fortuner is SA’s favourite SUV vehicle but I reckon the new Pajero could sway a couple of buyers should they be given the chance to take it for a spin.
The Pajero's new grille
Costs from R435 900 to R445 900 for 4X4 models (4X2 option available year end). Find out more at www.mitsubishi-motors.co.za
The latest Pajero Sport models will be available in a choice of five colours: Eison Grey Mica, Cool Silver Metallic, Quartz Bronze Metallic, Medium Red and White Pearl.
The Pajero Sport is covered by a 3-year/100 000km warranty and 5-year/ 90 000km Service Plan.
