MITSUBISHI Pajero Sport 2.5 DI-D GLS 4×4 AT (Part 2)

Those bakkie foundations also reflect in the cabin’s high floor, but legroom in the second and third rows are on par with other seven-seats in the segment. However, an area in which the Pajero is deficient is luggage room when the third row is erected; its 96 dm3 is considerably less than those of the competition.

The facia remains a mixed bag, with the variety of trim patinas clashing and a couple of flimsy panels letting it down.

Otherwise, things inside are pleasant. The seats are trimmed in black leather that’s less mark-attracting than the previous grey, the rear-view mirror gets auto-dimming, auto lights and wipers make an appearance and the audio system gets a shot in the arm to the tune of a USB port and Bluetooth connectivity with voice control. Some will question the addition of a rather fetching pair of steel paddle shifters in such a vehicle, especially as the gearbox’s response to manual input is rather sluggish, but perhaps the most welcome update is the touchscreen atop the facia – it houses an intuitive interface, as well as a most welcome reverse camera.

Test Summary

With the latest Pajero Sport, the folks at Mitsubishi have capably addressed the previous model’s shortcomings. And the big bonus is that these welcome changes have been made without a price hike.

Some will question the ranking that sees the Top 12-winning Trailblazer relegated to second place, but this version of the Pajero’s powertrain improvements and, in particular, its sheer value for money elevate it above this model Chevrolet. Realistically, though, the Pajero can’t really trouble the Chevrolet as a segment leader as it simply doesn’t possess its model diversity.

Even so, we hope Mitsubishi can hold the sticker price and plough some marketing spend this model’s way, as these new developments could well see it suddenly go from pricey fringe player to a genuine contender in its segment.

The facia is now crowned with an intuitive touchscreen infotainment system, but the awkward clashes of trim patinas remain.