Mitsubishi Pajero
The Mitsubishi Pajero is a big brute of an SUV that’s known as the Shogun in the UK. It’s a bone fide 4x4 icon that has been a mainstay of the genre for many years. Hardy, rugged and durable, it’s one of the best off road machines you’ll come across, but isn’t bad on normal tarmac either. With an instantly recognisable design, it boasts space and equipment galore, but is still a dominator of nature at its heart.
It has been climbing mountains, fording streams and generally towering over everything else since 1982. While it has become somewhat more refined and bulky with age compared to the rough and ready original, the Pajero is still available in short wheelbase (3 door) and long wheelbase (5 door) options. Several generations have been released, with the most modern being one of the best selling 4x4s around.
Indeed newer models are huge in both size and attitude, but they certainly aren’t ugly to look at. With a decidedly rugged appearance, there are some nice shapes and strong features like the front grille, wheel arches and sills that run the length of the body. Inside the 5 door model, things are spacious and well built with a modern feel. Featuring 5 comfortable seats, some nicely equipped trim levels and quite an airy feel thanks to its big windows, the Pajero is fully loaded. Both 3 and 5 door models offer good boot space, but the latter takes it to a whole other level with the rear seats down.
To drive the Mitsubishi is quite easy despite its large size and responds quite well. There’s no question that its off-road ability is second to none and it’ll go through any type of weather or terrain like a hot knife through butter. On road it’s more than adequate compared to other models, but it’s obviously not as good as a regular SUV. Clever suspension, differential and traction setting mean it’s not short on grip and all things considered it sits quite happily on the road. Negotiating urban streets could be a challenge though.
With such a grand reputation associated with it, the Pajero is actually very reasonably priced, but there’s more than enough opportunity to bag a real bargain if you buy second hand here at Motors.co.uk. Substantial price reductions and an unrelenting approach to providing high quality cars for sale mean any used Mitsubishi Pajero you find will be seriously good.
So while the off-road motoring genre becomes ever more competitive with young guns joining in the fun, the Mitsubishi Pajero is a comparative veteran that’s seen it all before and isn’t fazed in the slightest. It’s still a titan and has a firm grip on its crown; modern versions are civilised and accommodating but possess that ability to take on any terrain and come out on top. The envy of most, this is a car that doesn’t hold back.