New Pajero returns to roots
The Pajero nameplate used to stand for something rugged and tough as nails. This model made a name for itself in the heat of competition, specifically the Paris Dakar rally (now called the Dakar).
Over the years it gained more inches and put on more weight until it became a luxury off-roader.
Now the name is being revived on a model that is based, visually at least, on the Triton pick-up truck. Mitsubishi says it has a ladder chassis. This may not impress potential BMW X5 owners but it certainly would put a smile on the faces of those who want a really tough offroad machine.
Mitsubishi Japan says that this model is aimed at Russia, Asean and a few other developing markets and it should be available later this year or early next year.
I like the new look and I like the ladder frame chassis. I think this will be a winner. If Mitsubishi can make their maintenance cost more competitive.
Below is the official Press release from Tokyo
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation will revive the famous Pajero nameplate and unveil the new model at the Moscow Auto Salon 2008 on August 26.
The new Pajero Sport will be offered in selected regions such as Russia, the ASEAN area, the Middle East, Latin America and Oceania starting in the third quarter of this year.
The exterior styling suggests that the vehicle may be based on the Triton pick-up truck, a vehicle which has proven to be very successful for Mitsubishi.
This new model will be made available in either a 2-row (5-passenger) or 3-row (7-passenger) seating configuration.
The rugged looks is complemented by a hard wearing interior that features water-repellent seats and a waterproof luggage compartment floor.
Mitsubishi’s latest Pajero will be powered by a choice of three engines which all deliver outstanding motive performance and fuel economy: 2.5-liter and 3.2-liter common rail direct injection diesel units and a 3.5-liter V6 petrol engine.
Although the exterior carries many styling cues from the Triton, Mitsubishi says that their new Pajero is mounted on a new ladder frame and this has been designed to achieve high levels of durability and reliability, consistent with the needs of its target markets.
In terms of drive system, the new vehicle comes fitted with their Super Select 4WD system which transmits drive torque effectively to all four wheels on all types of surface.
The body, frame and driveline not only give Pajero Sport outstanding off-road performance but allow it to deliver excellent drive dynamics over all surfaces.
