Mitsubishi Pajero: Things we like, things we don't

While the Mitsubishi Pajero is no longer offered in the United Arab Emirates, the SUV  holds a special place in the hearts of SUV enthusiasts in the region.

One of the standout features of the Pajero is its exceptional off-roading capabilities, keeping alive the spirit of rugged aesthetics introduced in 2013. The SUV offers two powertrain options: a 3-litre engine with 174 bhp and 259 Nm of torque and a robust 3.8-litre engine producing 240 hp and 327 Nm of torque. Both engines come with automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, making the Pajero a versatile choice.

What sets the 2023 Mitsubishi Pajero apart is its flexibility. Available in both 5-door and 3-door body types, it caters to various needs in its segment. Unfortunately, this beloved model will no longer be in production, marking the end of an era. However, it leaves behind a legacy of naturally aspirated V6 petrol engines. With its diverse options, affordable price point, and enduring legacy, the Mitsubishi Pajero has left an indelible mark on the UAE's SUV landscape. However, it does have some things that we don’t like.

Let us now take a look at the key pros of the legendary Mitsubishi Pajero. 

Style and functionality

The Mitsubishi Pajero, despite receiving its last redesign in 2013, retains a timeless and classic design. Its large headlight clusters house projector lamps that provide excellent road illumination, especially when paired with the fog lamps below. The rear showcases an inbuilt spare wheel case, adding to the SUV's aesthetics while cleverly housing the reversing camera. Roof rails come standard on all Pajeros, enhancing its practicality and adding a rugged appeal.

Option of third-row seats

The Pajero's versatility shines through its ingenious cabin design. Available in both compact SUV and full-size truck versions, it can seat up to 7 people. The third-row seats are seamlessly hidden in the SUV's floor plan, maximizing cargo space when not in use. When needed, occupants can effortlessly access the seats by removing a floor cover and pulling them up from the car's floor plan.

Commendable boot space

Prioritizing payload space, Mitsubishi designed the Pajero with impressive cargo capacity. The five-door variant offers up to 1081 litres of cargo capacity, perfect for extended journeys and large loads. In the three-door version, the boot space remains ample at 500 liters. Additionally, the second-row seats feature a foldaway function, further enhancing cargo space when required.

A host of creature comforts

Despite its age, the Mitsubishi Pajero boasts an array of modern features and creature comforts. The SUV includes a wireless charging pad and a sunroof, adding a touch of luxury to its rugged character. Its infotainment system, although slightly dated, remains well-positioned and functional. The digital multi-information display at the top provides useful information like a digital compass, outside temperature, range, average speed, and elevation. The touchscreen infotainment unit, compatible with Apple CarPlay, sits just below this display. While responsive, it may seem a bit dated in terms of graphics. The Pajero also offers Bluetooth connectivity for seamless pairing with mobile devices.

Exceptional off-road capabilities

Equipped with all-wheel drive and an automatic gearbox, the 2020 Pajero features a dedicated low-range transmission with a differential lock, enhancing its off-road capabilities. Despite its off-road suspension and all-wheel-drive system, the Pajero maintains a comfortable ride on freeways and city roads. Additionally, it comes equipped with cruise control, making it an excellent choice for long road trips and highway driving, where its capabilities truly shine.

Now, let us take a look at the disadvantages of the Mitsubishi Pajero.

Outdated cabin design

One of the notable drawbacks of the Mitsubishi Pajero in the UAE is its outdated cabin design. While the exterior retains a classic and rugged appeal, the interior feels somewhat behind the times. In an automotive landscape where competitors are embracing cutting-edge technology and modern aesthetics, Pajero's cabin design appears stagnant.

Compared to its contemporaries, the Pajero's dashboard layout, infotainment system, and instrument cluster might feel outdated to some buyers. The graphics on the infotainment screen lack the crispness and clarity seen in newer models. This aspect becomes more pronounced when you consider that even base models of competing SUVs often come equipped with more advanced and user-friendly infotainment systems.

Moreover, the overall quality of materials used in the cabin might not meet the expectations of buyers who seek a more refined and luxurious interior. The choice of materials and finishes could be more premium, especially when compared to some of its rivals in the same price range.

Lack of modern features

Another notable drawback of the Mitsubishi Pajero in the UAE market is its relative lack of modern features compared to its competitors. While the Pajero offers the essentials, such as air conditioning, power windows, and basic connectivity options, it falls short of providing some of the advanced features that have become commonplace in newer SUVs.

Buyers looking for advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assistance may find the Pajero lacking in this department. These safety features have become increasingly important to consumers, especially in a market where road conditions can vary.

In terms of infotainment, the Pajero's system, although functional, may not meet the expectations of tech-savvy buyers. The absence of a more intuitive and user-friendly interface, as well as the limited compatibility with smartphone integration systems like Android Auto, can be disappointing to those seeking a more connected driving experience.

Conclusion

Just like any other car, the Pajero also has its own pros and cons. However, the Mitsubishi Pajero continues to be a stalwart in the UAE's SUV market, combining exceptional off-roading prowess with a timeless design and great versatility.

Also read: GWM Tank 300: Variants explained