Driven: The all-new Mitsubishi Pajero Sport Exceed 4x4

Photo by Naresh Maharaj

I tested the 'boss of the Mitsubishi stable on short and long runs and just about every other terrain you can drive on and the Pajero Sport Exceed really delivered, time and again.

Definitely more style and luxury than any of its predecessors, thanks to Mitsubishi’s Dynamic Shield design approach. It’s been 38 years that the first Mitsubishi Pajero was launched.

Outstanding and unique

One of the most outstanding visual features of the new model is its new Dynamic Shield front grille, giving the upgraded version an enhanced, more stylish and modern look.

The New Pajero Sport is Mitsubishi’s unique platform, offering seven seats, making it a new-generation all-round SUV that combines off-road perfection and luxury on-road comfort. The latest version includes more technology and driver comforts, which is always so welcome.

Turbodiesel

All models are powered by the 2.4L Mivec turbodiesel four-cylinder inter-cooled engine, offering a powerful 133kW and demanding 430Nm of torque, driving the wheels through Mitsubishi’s advanced eight-speed automatic transmission.

The pairing between the engine and the automatic transmission's wide range of gear ratios provides smooth acceleration and low rpm high-speed cruising that enhances driving efficiency.

Luxury interior

On the inside, the new range builds on the existing luxury of the Pajero Sport, including tilt and telescopic adjustment for the steering column with a multi-function leather-clad steering wheel with audio and cruise control settings at your fingertips.

Life is made easier for the driver thanks to a new full-colour digital instrument display, automatic dual-zone air-conditioning throughout the seven-seater cabin, including rear passenger controls, and electric windows all round.

Gravel, mud, sand or rock, bring it on!

The new derivative in the range, the Pajero Sport Exceed, offers all the built-in safety features inherent of the Mitsubishi brand, and like the standard 4x4 version, is paired with Mitsubishi’s Super Select 4WD-II system which delivers performance in the most challenging driving conditions and rugged terrain.

Photo by Naresh Maharaj

The selectable off-toad modes maximise traction on and across various surfaces. The Gravel, Mud, Sand or Rock setting can be selected to suit surface conditions to optimise engine output, transmission settings and braking for superior traction control. The 4x4 driver selector dial on the new Exceed allows the driver to select between no less than four driving modes.

Verdict

Truly luxurious and a pleasure to drive. You sit high up in the cockpit and all controls are a touch away. The leather seats offered superb comfort and there was plenty of legroom.

The electronic instrumentation dashboard was easy to read for all sorts of driving information. I smiled when I saw the mini icon of the vehicle’ on the instrumentation panel, light up every time I pressed the brake pedal.

The new 8" colour LCD cluster was also easy to use. Everything at your fingertips, including Apple Car Play and Android Auto. The Pajero Sport has a 30-degree angle approach angle, the best in its class, which allows adventurers to challenge tough obstacles with ease.

Pricing:

• Mitsubishi Sport 4x2 Auto- R609,995
• Mitsubishi Sport 4x4 Auto - R659,995
• Mitsubishi Sport Exceed - R679,995

The new Mitsubishi Pajero Sport has a three-year/100,000km manufacturer’s warranty and a five-year/90,000km service plan with 10,000km service intervals.