By Khulekani Dumisa

The Mitsubishi Pajero Sport has taken up the mantle of being the halo product of the Mitsubishi line-up following permanent ending of the Pajero’s production.  As if the pressure was not intense enough, the Pajero Sport faces tough competition locally. With this in mind, the latest fresh looks should come in handy as the updated Pajero Sport aims to woo car buyers to the Mitsubishi stable.

New looks

The most obvious change upfront is the introduction of the company’s new design language which livens-up the car. Dubbed the “Dynamic Shield,” this includes a revised grille, LED headlamps, daytime running lights and fog lamps. The car also benefits from cornering lights.

At the rear, shorter LED rear combination lamps and a thicker bumper with a rear diffuser make an appearance.

Two new body colours, White Diamond and Graphite Grey, are introduced along with a new 18-inch alloy wheel design, to keep things fresh.

The range also benefits from Mitsubishi’s RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body construction which enhances collision safety performance.

Interior

The new range offers Bluetooth with hands-free voice control via Mitsubishi’s smartphone-link display audio (SDA) infotainment system that is connected to a new 8-inch colour touch screen. The new infotainment is also Apple Car Play and Android Auto compatible.

All models now have additional USB and additional accessory sockets (dual USB for the rear passengers) and a 220AC 150-Watt power plug.

Mitsubishi also says the cabin benefits from more soft-touch materials and more leg room, and elbow space.

Expanded range

Mitsubishi has added a Pajero Sport Exceed model to the range which sets itself apart with a power tilt and sliding sunroof, Mitsubishi remote control connectivity and an electronic tailgate with Dual Kick Sensors.

Engine

All updated Pajero Sport models are powered by a 2.4L MIVEC turbodiesel four-cylinder intercooled turbo diesel offering with 133 kW of power and 430 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with an eight speed automatic transmission.

Pricing

The refreshed Pajero Sport is priced as follows:

• Mitsubishi Sport 4×2 Auto:           R609,995
• Mitsubishi Sport 4×4 Auto:           R659,995
• Mitsubishi Sport Exceed:              R679,995

Prices include a 3-year/100,000km manufacturer’s warranty and a 5-year/90,000km service plan.