The Mitsubishi Pajero Sport has carved a niche for itself as the go-to SUV for Aussie adventurers for decades. With the 2024 update hitting dealerships soon, let’s see if this new iteration maintains the legacy of tackling tough terrains with comfort and capability.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Comparatively Affordable: The Pajero Sport won’t break the bank. It’s a sensible choice for families seeking adventure without emptying their wallets.
- Available 10-Year Warranty: Mitsubishi’s commitment to longevity shines through with an impressive warranty period.
- Clever and Capable 4×4 System: When the asphalt ends, the Pajero Sport’s off-road prowess kicks in.
Cons
- Lower Power and Towing Capacity: It lags behind some rivals in terms of raw power and towing muscle.
- Lacks a Few Driver-Assist Aids: While it’s rugged, a few modern safety features are conspicuously absent.
- Interior Looks Dated: The cabin design feels like a throwback, and space isn’t its strong suit.
How Much Does It Cost?
Official pricing for the 2024 Pajero Sport is yet to be revealed, but we expect it to be similar to the outgoing model, which starts around $47,740 drive-away for the base GLX variant. Prices climb progressively through the GLS, Exceed, and top-spec GSR trims.
Features and Benefits
Inside the Pajero Sport, you’ll find a mix of rugged practicality and comfort. While the Triton lineage is evident, the build quality impresses. Highlights include:
- Padding on the Transmission Tunnel: Comfort for long journeys.
- Leather-Like Trim on Doors and Console Lid: A touch of luxury.
- Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel: Practical and stylish.
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System: A thoughtful addition.
- Impulse Blue Metallic Paint: Suddenly, the somewhat awkward-looking Mitsubishi turns heads.
Safety
The Pajero Sport doesn’t skimp on safety essentials:
- Sturdy Build: The ladder-frame construction provides robust protection.
- Airbags: Multiple airbags cushion passengers.
- Stability Control and Traction Control: Keeping you steady on slippery surfaces.
- Rearview Camera: Essential for parking maneuvers.
However, the absence of advanced driver-assist features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance is a chink in its armor.
A Look at the 2024 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
Running Costs: Fuel Efficiency Matters
While the 2.4-liter engine is a workhorse, it’s not the most fuel-efficient option on the market. Expect fuel figures around the 9.0L/100km mark for combined driving. If fuel efficiency is a top priority, you might want to consider some competitors with more modern engine options.
Standing Out from the Crowd: A Look at the Competition
The large SUV segment in Australia is a fiercely contested battlefield. The Pajero Sport squares off against rivals like the Toyota Fortuner, Ford Everest, and Isuzu MU-X. While it might not have the all-new engine flair of some competitors, the Pajero Sport makes a strong case for itself with its proven off-road capability, comfortable interiors, and a potentially competitive price tag.
Conclusion
A Worthy Contender
So, how does the 2024 Pajero Sport stack up? It’s a solid update to a well-established platform. It retains the off-road prowess that Mitsubishi is known for, with a more comfortable and feature-rich interior. While the engine might not be the most cutting-edge, it delivers strong performance and excellent towing capacity.
Rating: 7.5/10
The 2024 Pajero Sport is a compelling option for adventure seekers who prioritize off-road capability and value over the absolute latest engine technology. If you’re looking for a comfortable and feature-packed SUV that can handle the rough stuff, the Pajero Sport is definitely worth a test drive.