Mitsubishi’s Pajero Sport underwent a seismic shift in September 2017, forsaking its boxy (but much-loved) exterior for a modern SUV look with much more urban appeal. However, those who feared the new Pajero Sport may have gone soft, lost some of its famed off-road acumen, soon had their fears allayed, especially with regards to the 4X4 variant.
The current Pajero Sport 4X4 features cutting-edge off-road technology, thanks to its sophisticated Super Select II 4WD system that offers four different driving modes. In our experience it remains one of the most accomplished off-road vehicles of all.
Power-wise, it uses a very satisfying 2,4-litre turbocharged diesel engine producing 133 kW and 430 Nm. The vehicle has a towing capacity of some 2 790 kg (braked), which has made the current Pajero Sport a favourite amongst caravaners.
The Range
The current Mitsubishi Pajero Sport range consists of three models. At launch Mitsubishi South Africa decreed that both the 4X2 and 4X4 models would only come with high-spec equipment levels, and these now include 7 airbags, a reverse camera, cruise control, full dynamic stability control for on-tar work and leather upholstery.
The Shogun joins the model line-up
In November 2018, Mitsubishi introduced its range-topping Shogun model. This comes with a very tasty package that included, according to Mitsubishi, some R60 000 worth of extras, These would now be valued at over R70 000.
Chief amongst the added items included a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment installation with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Shogun package also includes Thule roof racks, a bonnet guard, headlamp protectors, a bonnet guard, nudge bar, special Shogun carpeting and Shogun decals.
So which Pajero Sport trim makes the most sense?
Pricing of the range sees the 2,4D 4X2 model sell for R589 995. This is followed by the 2,4D 4 model (4X4) at R639 995, and then the 2,4 D4 Shogun at R659 995.
Given the Pajero Sport’s reason-for-being, which is all about its new-found mix of on-road sophistication and astounding off-road ability, we would instantly narrow our choice down to the two 4X4 models. This is despite the 4X2 model’s R50 000 price advantage over its similarly-specced 4X4 sibling. The Pajero Sport is all about that amazing Super Select II off-road system fitted to the 4X4 models.
The Shogun wins
Given that the D and D4 models lack competitive infotainment systems, we would have no hesitation in spending the extra R20 000 on the Pajero Sport 2,4D 4X4 Shogun. Those off-road-specific add-ons are tastefully done, and in our minds the Shogun represents excellent value for money.
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