2021 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
The Mitsubishi Pajero Sport deserves more credit as a serious contender in the bakkie-based SUV category which the Toyota Fortuner has topped for some time. However, the tides are turning as there’s a new Mitsubishi Pajero Sport with sharper looks and loads of new features. This news should whet the appetite of any motoring enthusiast wanting something a little different from the other options in the market.
What’s New On The Mitsubishi Pajero Sport?
The latest updates to the Pajero Sport looks particularly striking from the front with its new ‘Dynamic Shield’ design. A refreshed grille and headlights give the car a distinctive edge while the boomerang accents add a real presence from any angle. While the side and rear could have been more refined, perhaps taking inspiration from earlier models, the overall look is stylish and modern.
It’s a different story on the inside as they’ve spruced up the specs with some new features and other electronics. There’s a new, more modern full-colour instrument display panel with enhanced connectivity. They’ve added additional USB inlets and accessory sockets which are also available to rear passengers.
The new Exceed flagship model also gets an electronic tailgate with dual-kick sensors, a powered sunroof and Mitsubishi Remote Control Connectivity. This allows you to control certain features from your smartphone.
It’s not just the top-spec that looks good as the standard Mitsubishi Pajero Sport also comes with several niceties. You still get full leather seating with electronic adjustment for the driver, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, multi-function steering wheel and a 20.3 cm touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone pairing.
Another benefit over the Fortuner is that the Pajero Sport has a proper third-row of seats that fold into the floor for loads of flat loading space. While the back row can seat adults, it seems better suited to children.
What’s The Mitsubishi Pajero Sport Like To Drive The?
The ride quality of the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport on the road is impressive, quiet and particularly comfy for an SUV-type car. It has a softer suspension so you tend to feel the corners more but considering it is designed as a family car for road trips and off-road adventures, they made the right decision.
Going off-road with the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport is a breeze as it can go nearly anywhere, provided you have one of the 4×4 models. When switching on the Super Select II 4WD system into 4LLc (low-range gearing and locked centre differential), you’ll be able to ascend and descend most slopes.
There’s also a 4HLc mode (high-range gearing but with central diff still locked) that is perfect for going over sandy sections while a 4H configuration splits the torque 40:60 to keep you safer on wet roads or gravel.
The Pajero Sport 4×4 models get a rear diff-lock for and some electronic assistance for those tricky off-road sections. These driver-assist technologies include Hill Descent Control and selectable Off-Road modes that optimise the vehicle’s dynamic systems for various surfaces: Gravel, Mud/Snow, Sand and Rock.
How Much Does The New Mitsubishi Pajero Sport Cost?
The Mitsubishi Pajero Sport is priced from R609 995 for the 2.4 4×2, which is considerably cheaper than its rivals. Here, the equivalent Isuzu MU-X 4×2 goes for R643 100, the Ford Everest 2.0 SiT XLT costs R637 800 and the Toyota Fortuner 2.8 4×2 starts at R700 100.
Even the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport 4×4 range is well-priced starting at R659 995 with the more luxurious Exceed going for R689 995. Even so, it’s still around R100 000 cheaper than the top-spec Toyota Fortuner.
Conclusion
Many people have ignored the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport in the face of big-name rivals but they ought to give it another look. This car offers a well-balanced combination of refinement, comfort, luxury, practicality and off-road ability at a price better than its rivals.
It’s time you booked a test drive and tried out the new Mitsubishi Pajero Sport. Visit our virtual showroom for more information and follow our blog for all the latest motoring news from around the world.
