Mitsubishi Pajero lives on … for now
Euro 5 emissions compliance confirmed for 17-year-old SUVThe full-size Mitsubishi Pajero SUV will live on despite the imminent confirmation of Australian sale of the smaller seven-seat Pajero Sport and the local upgrade to Euro 5 emissions levels from November 1.
While another iconic and aged SUV, the Y61 Nissan Patrol, is being claimed by the new emissions standards – as well as the Ford Falcon and Territory and the Holden Cruze – the venerable Pajero will be upgraded to Euro 5.
Although there have been some sizable updates, the current Pajero can trace its lineage back to the introduction of the NM model in 2000. If it’s still on sale in 2018 then its next hurdle will be the introduction of even tighter Euro 6 emissions standards in July that year.
Beyond that there are serious questions about what the future holds for Pajero, considering Mitsubishi didn’t appear to have a concrete plan for a next generation before the Nissan takeover in May and a new model would appear to be even less likely now.
The Triton-built Thai-built seven-seat Pajero Sport is certain to include three-row airbags, a shortcoming which delayed its confirmation for Australia.
Local promotion is expected to begin as soon as July 1.
The addition of third row seating rectifies a critical equipment shortfall against logical rivals such as the Toyota Fortuner, Ford Everest, Holden Colorado 7 and Isuzu MU-X.
It shapes as a logical substitute for the Pajero given it is also diesel powered and has substantial towing (3100kg braked, 100kg more than Pajero) and off-road capability.
The three-model Pajero Sport line-up is priced from $45,000-$52,750 and powered by a 133kW/430Nm 2.4-litre turbo-diesel engine.
The three-model Model Pajero range is priced from $53,990-$65,990 and powered by a 147kW/441Nm 3.2-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine.
Mitsubishi Motors Australia spokesman John Taylor delivered the standard company position on Pajero when contacted by motoring.com.au.
“Mitsubishi plans to continue to make improvements to and sell current Pajero for the time being,” Taylor said.
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