Mitsubishi reveals new Challenger
Mitsi’s third-gen ute-based SUV unveiled in ThailandThe 2015 Bangkok motor show has this weekend played host to the unveiling of Mitsubishi's long-awaited new Challenger.
Known as the Pajero Sport in its home market, the Thai-built seven-seat SUV shares the majority of its underpinnings with the Mitsubishi Triton. Power comes from a familiar 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, which makes 133kW and 430Nm in the Triton [Ed: the Challenger's full specifications have yet to be revealed].
The all-new Challenger is not expected to go on sale locally until late this year or early 2016. It is, however, likely to feature many of the same technologies premiered in Bangkok, including an eight-speed automatic transmission, blind-spot monitoring, an ultrasonic misacceleration mitigation system, camera-based around-view monitor and an electronic parking brake.
With seven airbags and MMC's RISE body structure the Challenger will achieve a five-star ANCAP safety rating, Mitsubishi claims.
The model also incorporates what MMC says is a "further evolved version" of its Super Select II all-wheel drive system, and will also include off-road technologies such as hill-descent control as standard.
"Mitsubishi Motors' Challenger successor is another example of our product direction and reflects the new appeal, design excellence, quality and refinement we are building into our vehicles," said Mitsubishi Motors Australia executive director, Tony Principe.
"The 2016 Challenger represents a new-generation of SUV with luxury, high-tech safety features and superior comfort while still delivering class-leading 4WD capabilities and great on-road performance."
The new Challenger sports Mitsubishi’s new Dynamic Shield frontal treatment and a higher quality interior with a "dynamically styled silver-finish ornamentation and plush sculpted seats."
More importantly Mitsubishi says it has focused heavily on improving the Challenger's handling, stability, ride and quietness in the face of strong competition from the likes of Ford's Everest and the upcoming Toyota Fortuner.
Mitsubishi Motors Australia will announce details of the new Australian specifications Challenger closer to its local launch.
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