Dec 2000 Volume 81 Number 12 "serving the protectors"
Technological but Muscular
By Jim Barnett

Mitsubishi’s third generation Pajero is bigger, completely new and bristling with the latest technology. And it’s a big improvement on a fairly sound predecessor. NM Pajero comes in four long wheel base models - GL, GLX, GLS and Exceed - with V6 petrol or turbo diesel engines.

A short bonnet, bulging front mudguards and large headlamps give this vehicle a fresh, contemporary style. The almost muscular-looking front end is complemented by a smooth profile, with flush-fitting glass and the elimination of rain gutters. The rear hinged door’s larger window and lower spare wheel enhances rear vision. Door hinges are concealed on the inside for a smoother appearance.

Mitsubishi has moved away from the traditional separate ladder chassis in favour of a one-piece monocoque body with built-in frame. This method of construction has for years featured in many light- and medium-duty 4x4s. Its advantages include:

• Reduced weight.
• A more rigid body, which translates to better on- and off-road performance.
• The ability for the manufacturer to build in more effective crumple zones.

Compared to the previous model, the new Pajero body is 60mm longer, 100mm wider and 35mm lower. But its ground clearance is 20mm greater, and its turning circle has been reduced by 400mm.

The increased body size means more interior space, while the monocoque construction allows for a lower floor pan for easier occupant entry.

A new, fully-independent suspension system - developed through Mitsubishi’s off-road rally experience - complements the body construction improvements. Front double wishbones with coil springs replace the former torsion bar system, while the rear multi-link suspension replaces the previous rigid set-up. The new suspension offers increased travel (40mm front and 30mm rear), which enhances its overall performance.

Rack-and-pinion steering completes the ride-and-handling package. Unlike the previous model, there is no kickback through the steering wheel on large bumps. The new suspension, rigid body and steering combination not only produce a better ride but also improve responsiveness through reduced understeer.

Australian versions of the new Pajero come standard with the previous 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine, or can be optioned with a 2.8-litre inter-cooled turbo diesel. A more powerful and fuel-efficient V6 petrol engine - with direct injection - will not come to Australia, apparently due to our poorer fuel quality. Nonetheless, the GLS V6 automatic tested by the had stacks of power, cruised effortlessly and returned reasonable fuel economy.

Mitsubishi’s improved Super Select four-wheel-drive system allows a 33%/67% front/rear torque split in 4High mode. As with the previous model, changes between 2H and 4H can be made at up to 100km/h on any surface. The other settings - 4HLc and 4LLc - lock the centre differential and distribute torque evenly to each axle.

A superb five-speed Sports Mode automatic transmission is optional on GLX, GLS and Exceed. It uses INVECS II adaptive logic to tailor transmission operations to individual driving styles. The tiptronic-style Sports Mode allows the driver to operate the transmission as if it were a manual with no need for its clutch to be operated. This proved invaluable off-road and in hilly terrain. Of course, Pajero can always be driven as a normal automatic in “Drive” mode.

The new Pajero - with a smarter, more refined interior layout - is more spacious and comfortable. The contemporary dashboard is finished in two-tone colour schemes with modern, textured materials. The wider console features a larger storage bin with adjustable armrest. The centre facia has:

• A large module housing a single CD player (six-disc on Exceed).
• Ventilation controls.
• An RV meter on GLS and Exceed.

The RV meter is a coloured LCD display featuring time, date, altitude, compass, temperature and barometric pressure. It looks impressive but its usefulness may be questionable.

Seating is comfortable, and the height-adjustable driver’s seat provides a commanding view over the bonnet. The second row, 60-40 seats are more comfortable than before and have in-built gas dampers to assist in folding them forward. The third row is a single bench seat, which can be stored in a well below floor level. This provides better use of the cargo bay, and the seat can be completely removed for even greater storage.

Pajero is priced from $39,750 (V6 manual GL) to $55,990 (V6 auto Exceed).

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