Mitsubishi Pajero continues to provide a neat balance between on-road comfort and off-road ability
Mitsubishi Pajero is an important vehicle in the history of 4WDs in Australia. Prior to the Mitsubishi’s launch in the early 1980s buyers could choose between a 4WD that was truck-like, or find a lot more money and go for a very expensive Range Rover. Then Pajero arrived at an affordable price, with good off-road ability, on-road comfort and decent handling.
The rest, as they say, is history and in the intervening four decades every car maker in the world has designed 4WDs and SUVs based on the principles introduced by Mitsubishi for its now-renowned Pajero.
Now, Mitsubishi Pajero has been updated for the 2014 model year and Australians, who have bought it in the tens of thousands have an even better vehicle. For the 2014 season there’s a big emphasis on safety, with luxury items also being added and/or upgraded.
Mitsubishi’s Link in the GLX and GLX-R provides voice controlled Bluetooth 2.0 with steering wheel controls, mobile hands-free and wireless audio streaming making it easier and safer to conduct business or enjoy some downtime in the Pajero. The VRX and Exceed receive the addition of the Mitsubishi Multi Communications System (MMCS incorporating 3D based satellite navigation) and rear-parking sensors.
The GLX’s audio system has a single-CD player, six speakers, USB port with iPod control interface and AUX audio input so you can listen to your favourite music in any format. Voice controlled Bluetooth 2.0 with steering wheel controls, mobile hands-free and wireless audio streaming make it easier and safer to conduct business or enjoy some downtime in the Pajero.
Next up the luxury line, the Mitsubishi Pajero GLX-R also gets colour-coded door mirrors and door handles; a rear tailgate spoiler; integrated side steps and front mudguards; front foglamps and black door sash detail.
The Pajero GLX-R’s versatile seven-seat setup offers multiple options, with the third-row seat able to fold, drop or recline, it can even be stowed under the cargo floor, or totally removed. Automatic climate control is part of this package.
The mid-range, seven-seat diesel Pajero VRX now has 18-inch alloy wheels; a restyled chrome radiator grille; darkened rear privacy glass, exterior door mirrors with built-in turn signals and puddle lamps.
Inside, Pajero VRX’s cabin receives partial leather seat trim and leather look floor and console and door trims for added style, while the power adjustable front seats with seat heaters increase comfort levels.
The all-new Mitsubishi Multi-Communication System (MMCS) found in the Pajero VRX features a high-resolution touch-screen panel with 3D satellite navigation for easier operation.
The top of the range Pajero Exceed receives chromed details on the door mirrors and handles; chrome side strips and front foglamps with chrome bezels to brighten the exterior appearance. The added brightness of High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps come as standard on the Exceed.
Inside, the Exceed comes with leather seat trim and stylish wood print to give it a luxury look. Entertainment comes from a quality 860 watt, 12-speaker Rockford Acoustic Design audio system. The kids get a rear seat 9-inch DVD entertainment system with dual wireless headphones.
Crash prevention is the best form of safety. The Mitsubishi Pajero is equipped with MATT (Mitsubishi All Terrain Technology) for excellent off-road control, it also improves on-road safety and handling. A rear differential lock is standard across the range.
The MATT system incorporates Active Stability and Traction Control, ABS braking system with EBD and Mitsubishi’s well proven Super Select II 4WD layout. This lets the driver switch between 2WD and 4WD modes at speeds of up to 100 kilometres per hour on any surface. Thus making for the best compromises of on-road fuel efficiency, off-road traction and many other areas between these extremes.
Standard injury minimisation safety equipment on all variants of the Pajero includes front driver and passenger, side and curtain SRS airbags and IsoFix child restraints (the latter from July 2013 onwards).
Mitsubishi Australia continues to give a five year / 130,000 km new vehicle warranty and five year Roadside Assist. There’s capped price servicing for the first four years or 60,000 km of ownership on all new vehicles. There are some conditions attached to the servicing so contact your Mitsubishi dealer to discuss your particular situation.
