Why Mitsubishi's Pajero Sport is South Africa's most underrated seven-seater SUV
South Africa's love affair with SUVs is undeniable. But in the crowded realm of seven-seater SUVs, one contender often gets overlooked without any good reason: the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport. Find out why it's a wonderful alternative to some of SA's favourite, large, family SUVs.
The Pajero Sport 2.4DI-D 4x4 (R854 990) came to visit us in the Western Cape, and we put it to work immediately.
Here's why the Pajero Sport deserves a second look, and why it might just be the perfect fit for you and your family.
1. Unwavering off-road prowess
South African drivers demand a vehicle that can conquer gravel tracks, dusty trails, and the occasional 4x4 course. The Pajero Sport, with its proven Super Select 4WD system and terrain modes, is an off-road champion. The reassurance of superior off-road capability is a huge selling point, whether you're navigating sandy beaches or tackling rocky mountain passes. The Pajero Sport also has a wading depth of 700 mm.
Towing a bush trailer or boat this December? No problem, the Pajero Sport can tow up to 2700 kg, braked.
2. Surprisingly spacious and practical
Packing a seven-seater can sometimes feel like a game of Tetris – cramming people and gear into a confined space. The Pajero Sport defies those expectations. The second row offers ample legroom and headroom, ensuring a comfortable journey for even the tallest passengers, while the third row is easily accessible for younger passengers. Standard running boards allow shorter passengers a convenient step up or down. The second row’s seats can also slide and recline, with forward-tumbling functionality. And, a full leather interior (standard across the board), manages spills more efficiently than cloth when the kids are on board.
When you need cargo space, the third row folds completely flat, creating a cavernous and versatile storage area, with the bonus of another multi-compartment storage underneath, while nothing (like the seats in the Fortuner) impinges on the overall amount of cargo space.
3. Packed with safety features
The Pajero Sport boasts a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Active Stability Control (ASC), Traction Control System (TCS), and Hill Start Assist (HSA) and brake assist (BA). These features work tirelessly, whether you're navigating crowded city streets or going for a spot of bundu-bashing. Mitsubishi's ‘Reinforced Safety Evolution’ body construction protects occupants against the severity of an impact by channeling energy away from the cabin.
Seven airbags are standard, along with rain-sensing wipers, auto dimming interior mirrors, Isofix on the outer rear seats, child locks, LED daytime running lights, and dusk-sensing LED headlamps.
LED fog lamps, rear park distance control and a rearview camera seal the deal.
Pajero sport models built up to 1 January 2023 scored a five-star ANCAP safety rating, but the newer models have yet to be tested - but we expect nothing less.
Related: GWM Tank 300 vs Mitsubishi Pajero Sport vs Isuzu mu-X
4. It's unpopular with hijackers
The Pajero Sport also makes our list of best cars that aren’t targeted by hijackers, so you don’t always have to be looking over your shoulder when travelling through areas that are hijacking-hotspots. According to our research, the Fortuner and Everest are highly popular with thieves. Mitsubishi doesn’t feature on their radar, however.
Related: Ford Everest vs Mitsubishi Pajero Sport vs Toyota Fortuner
5. Packed with tech for comfort and convenience
Modern families demand modern features, and the Pajero Sport delivers. An 8-inch colour touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (as well as a 6-speaker audio system) keeps everyone entertained on long journeys. 4-Zone climate control ensures everyone is comfortable, and the driver’s seat is electrically adjustable.
We’re also impressed by the inclusion of a 150 Watt two-point plug in row tow, allowing you to recharge a laptop on a camping trip! Two more USB ports for second-row passengers keep phones juiced up. And keyless start/entry means you don't have to fiddle with a key in the dark. Another plus point is the inclusion of steering-wheel mounted paddle-shifters.
Related: Is the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport expensive to maintain?
Download the Pajero Sport brochure and spec sheet for the full list of features here.
6. Surprisingly affordable, especially if you’re buying used!
While most seven-seater SUVs come with a hefty price tag, the Pajero Sport offers great value for money. It delivers capability, comfort, and features, without breaking the bank. It is also one of the best-value pre-loved seven-seater SUVs you’ll find on AutoTrader - search for used models with a 'great price' rating here.
7. It’s undeniably stylish
Looks might not be everything, but they certainly don't hurt. The Pajero Sport strikes a balance between rugged good looks and high-tech, urban sophistication. Its muscular stance and bold design elements stand out in a sea of Fortuners and Everests. Seen here, is the top-spec Exceed model which we drove a while back, and you can read this particular Pajero Sport's roadtrip review here.
Related: Toyota Fortuner vs Ford Everest vs Mitsubishi Pajero Sport: Running cost comparison
8. It’s fuel-efficient
Fuel costs are a major concern for South African families. The Pajero Sport performs admirably for its size and capabilities, and the manufacturer claims an average consumption of an ambitious 8,1 litres per 100 km, with a claimed range of 840 km on one tank. Filling up the Pajero Sport with 50 ppm diesel based on today’s fuel price, will cost around R1 438,20.
In our experience, the 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine shines on road trips, and registered an impressive 8.6 litres per 100 km while in our care.
Top 3 things you need to know about the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
9. A smooth and comfortable ride
South Africa's roads aren't always conducive to smooth sailing. The Pajero Sport's well-tuned suspension absorbs bumps and imperfections with ease, ensuring a comfortable ride for all passengers, regardless of the terrain. We never advocate speeding, but it means those pesky speed bumps won't make much of an impact if you're a little late in getting your offspring to school!
Related: Mitsubishi Pajero Sport 2.4 DI-D 4x4 Exceed (2021) Review
10. A proven legacy of adventure
Mitsubishi has a long and illustrious history of building vehicles that excel in challenging environments. The Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero has taken part in 26 Dakar rallies and won a total of 12 victories with an unprecedented seven consecutive wins to become known to motorsport fans all around the world as "The King of the Desert". The Pajero Sport is a worthy successor to that legacy!
Related: Mitsubishi Pajero Sport 2.4DI-D 4x4 Aspire (2022) Review: A Dakar Rally Car for the Road
