March 1999 Volume 80 Number 3 "serving the protectors"
Motoring
By Jim Barnett

Mitsubishi’s Challenger will be a strong competitor in the fast-growing medium-duty four-wheel-drive sector.

Available in one well equipped model, Challenger’s $39,990 entry price includes:

• Dual airbags.
• Air conditioning.
• Power windows and mirrors.
• Four-speaker stereo.
• Alloy wheels.
• Side steps.

Options include:

• Automatic transmission ($2,000)
• Anti-lock braking system ($1,250).
• A combination pack consisting of two-tone paint, cruise control and limited slip differential ($1,800).

Challenger’s wheelbase and track are similar to its stable-mate, Pajero, but its over hangs are shorter. The body sports chunky wheel arch mouldings, a low roof line, high waist-line and chrome grille. These attributes give the vehicle a longer, lower and more sporty appearance than some of its rivals.

Mechanically, Challenger is more Triton than Pajero. The only engine available is a silky smooth, LPG compatible, SOHC, 3.0-litre V6 with four valves per cylinder. It pumps out a healthy 136kW at 5,500rpm (only 4kW less than Pajero’s 3.5-litre V6). The standard five-speed manual transmission is mated to a part-time, two-speed transfer case with the ability to change between 2H and 4H on loose surfaces at up to 100km/h.

Front and rear crumple zones are built into the body and chassis, with side intrusion beams in all doors. Mitsubishi claims these safety features, coupled with driver and passenger airbags, give Challenger similar occupant protection to that of conventional passenger vehicles, which complies with Australian Design Rule 69/00. The 74-litre fuel tank is fitted forward of the rear axle for additional safety.

Front suspension features independent double wishbones and torsion bars while the rigid rear axle is suspended with semi-elliptic leaf springs. Stabiliser bars are fitted front and rear. Four wheel disc brakes are standard and steering is power-assisted recirculating ball and nut.

Challenger’s well-laid-out interior offers seating for five and plenty of cargo space. Its simple yet functional dashboard layout makes all controls easy to use.

Driving position and vision can be enhanced by a handy height adjustment attached to the driver’s seat. Map reading lights, a digital clock and concealed compartments to store sunglasses and a garage door controller are provided in the overhead console.

Challenger’s many storage areas include:

• Front and rear drink holders.
• Large pockets on front doors.
• Map pockets in the rear.
• A sizeable glove box.

The cargo area is accessed by a single lift-up tailgate which exposes a wide, flat floor with numerous under-floor compartments. The rear seat is 60/40 split-fold design enabling flexible load-carrying ability. Two small storage boxes are located in the side panels along with a 12-volt accessory socket. The spare wheel is neatly slung under the rear of the vehicle but high enough not to decrease departure angles.

When put to the test under various conditions by the Police Journal, Challenger proved its worth at the petrol pump. It was the most economical V6 petrol, mid-size 4WD vehicle PJ has ever scrutinized. Economy varied between 11.6 l/100km on the highway and 14.4 l/100km towing a hefty camper trailer.

On smooth bitumen surfaces the ride was good and handling couldn’t be faulted. However, on rough roads it didn’t provide the same ride quality as some all-coil sprung vehicles. The rear leaf spring set-up performed well when a load was placed on the tow ball. Towing operations were carried out with relative ease. The engine and gearbox are well matched and enabled towing of sizeable loads in overdrive.

Long trips could find the driver hunting for the non-existent footrest, and although seating is generally comfortable the rear seat lacks thigh support for adults.

Challenger, however, is a worthy opponent for anything available in its class.

Test vehicle from Mitsubishi Motors Aust Ltd, Clovelly Park.

Southland Mitsubishi SERVICE AND PARTS Exclusive offer to all PASA readers • Your car serviced at trade prices     • Any spare parts at 20% discount • A free car wash with each service     • Most makes and models welcome Please call Keith Campbell on 8276 4599 Please mention this advertisement upon booking Cnr South & Daws Rd, Edwardstown www.southland.com.au