The seven-seater off-roader gets a much more aerodynamic design inspired by the updated 2016 Outlander and the upcoming Outlander Sport, while its rear end boasts an upright hatch and vertical tail lamps that stretch from the belt line all the way down to the bumper. All told, Mitsubishi has designed the most style-focused Pajero Sport ever, a move that reflects its upmarket ambitions.
The new Pajero Sport is based on the L200 pickup that’s sold in a number of global markets so it retains its predecessor’s rugged body-on-frame construction. In Thailand, one of its biggest markets, it will launch with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel engine that spins all four wheels via a brand new eight-speed automatic transmission and an evolution of Mitsubishi’s Super-Select 4WD-II four-wheel drive system.
Buyers who prefer three pedals will most likely be able to order a manual gearbox, and additional engines are expected to join the lineup later in the production run.
The new Mitsubishi Pajero Sport will go on sale in over 90 countries before the end of the year, but it’s too early to tell whether it will return to the United States.
What’s next?
The Sport will be followed by a brand new version of the full-size Montero that left our shores about a decade ago. Heavily inspired by the GC-PHEV concept, the Montero will be positioned as a Land Rover LR4 for buyers on a budget. It will feature body-on-frame construction, a generous amount of ground clearance and an available plug-in hybrid drivetrain.
Leave a Reply