Mitsubishi introduced Pajero 2.8 on India Road. It’s substantially the same size as the Safari. This version is a very traditional SUV, with body-on-ladder-frame construction, built of high-tensile steel and weighing over two tonnes; it has double wishbones and coil springs all round, the rear suspension being non-independent.

 

Pajero’s have been very well known for ultra-reliable and strong engines. The 4M40 2.8litre 4 cylinder Indirect Injection Diesel Engine with intercooler and turbocharger, develops an awesome power of 118.5 bhp @ 4000 rpm and torque of 29.8 kgm @ 2000 rpm with excellent fuel efficiency, low emissions, low-maintenance durability, and smooth performance. The inline four engines have an efficient 8-valve SOHC valve train.

 

The transmission has gear ratios that make the most of the engine, for good low-end response and acceleration and a smooth, comfortable ride. A hybrid LSD delivers smooth, predictable traction. A helical-geared rear differential lock significantly enhances the Pajero’s ability to escape severe conditions, such as deep mud, and to extract itself when one rear wheel completely loses traction. The Pajero features 15″ ventilated front discs (2 pots) and 15″ ventilated rear drum-in-discs along with 7″+8″ boosters provide fade-resistant stopping performance.

 

The 2.8 has a decidedly utilitarian interior, a clearly dated design that also uses low-grade plastics. It’s well designed and practical, with good ergonomics and plenty of storage space, but it lacks the prestige feel. The seats are well contoured and bolstered, and comfort is of a very high level, with supportive seats and plenty of available adjustment. It does feel quite cosy, especially in the rear, but most passengers should be able to get fairly comfy. The jump seats at the rear are best left for children. One problem is a lack of width, accentuated by the intrusive door-pads.

 

The Collision Safety-enhanced body consists of impact-absorbing crushable zones and a highly rigid cabin structure, which is strategically reinforced. The headlining and pillars impact-absorbing design minimise head injuries and the fuel tank’s location reduces the possibility of fuel leakage in an accident, which help in reducing severity of injuries in most collisions greatly increase chances of surviving accidents. This greatly reassures drivers to confidently explore the Pajero’s performance. In the event of a head on collision the steering column collapses into itself thereby not protruding into the cabin. This saves the passenger from any injury caused due to the steering wheel.

 

It may weigh two tonnes, but it goes well, and with silent indirect injection, it is very refined too. Short gearing makes it very punchy to drive, both in the city and on the highway. Fuel economy is not too bad, it returned 7.5kpl in the city, but not superior on the highway, where it returned a fair 10.5kpl.

 

The solid chassis and well-tuned suspension have been perfected over the years, so it drives very well for an SUV. The steering is very crisp and direct, ride quality is brilliant, and it goes exactly where you want it to. However, it’s best to drive sedately and not push too hard, as there is plenty of body rolls while cornering at high speeds.

Filed under: Mitsubishi Cars in India