Lockdown launches: Mitsubishi Pajero Sport upgrade and…

At the heart of the upgrade is Mitsubishi’s “Dynamic Shield” look, similar to what we have seen on the latest Triton and a new model, called Exceed, is added. The range now consists of three models, the most stylish Pajero Sport yet, the 2.4L MIVEC Turbodiesel 8-speed A/T 4x4 Exceed, joining the 2.4L MIVEC Turbodiesel 8-speed A/T 4x2 and the 2.4L MIVEC Turbodiesel 8-speed A/T 4x4.

Although most of the changes are in the form of style and more luxury equipment as part of the standard package, Mitsubishi’s engineers persisted with the 2.4-litre powertrain, known for its good power delivery and reliability with 133 kW and torque of 430 Nm.

From the outside, you won’t mistake the updated Pajero Sport range for anything else. The big SUV body is now complemented by the Dynamic Shield front end with sharp lines and chrome detailing. The new LED headlights, daytime running and fog lights are set in a robust front grill with chrome finishes, and it is also fitted with cornering lights.

It boasts new 18-inch alloy wheels, and the sidestep has been repositioned to give the vehicle a raised centre of gravity and better off-road capability. At the rear, a new, thicker bumper is fitted with a rear diffuser and shorter rear LED light combination.

On the inside of the big cabin, the improvements include an upgraded centre console, soft padded door and knee trim, offering a soft, luxurious feel, more leg and elbow room. It boasts new additional outlets for the air ports and seven high-quality, comfortable leather seats.

And then there is the adoption of two outstanding new features – the new 8-inch LCD meter cluster in full colour and an 8-inch SDA for easer navigation through various settings. The 8-inch offers a smart link display with Apple Car Play and Android Auto for a smartphone. All models also now have additional USB and accessory sockets (dual USB for the rear passengers) and a 220AC 150 watt power plug with full leather throughout the interior.

And now to the new kid on the block, the Exceed. The new derivative offers all the built-in safety features and luxuries of the standard 4x4 version. It is paired with Mitsubishi’s Super Select 4WD-II system with selectable off-road modes for various surfaces like gravel, mud/snow, sand or rock settings available.

So, what is different in the Exceed’s case? The new range topper boasts a remote control and Mitsubishi App system for its new electric tailgate with hands-free access, including ‘kick points’ to open the rear door, as well as an electric tilt and sliding electric sunroof.

The 2020 Pajero Sport colour palette has been extended with hues - White Diamond and Graphite Grey.

“The new Pajero Sport is extremely important to Mitsubishi Motors and it ticks all the boxes to become our hero model, says Nic Campbell, General Manager of Mitsubishi Motors South Africa. “It is important to note that Mitsubishi Motors is taking a new direction, focusing on growing market segments – and the new Pajero Sport certainly leads the way for our future, he concludes.”

Competitors include the Toyota Fortuner and Ford Everest line-ups, and for the 4x2 version more soft-roader 4x2s like offerings in the form of the Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe.