The Mitsubishi Pajero IV (facelift 2012) 3.2 DI-DC is a body-on-frame sport utility vehicle (SUV) produced by Mitsubishi Motors between 2012 and 2015. This iteration represents a significant refresh of the fourth-generation Pajero, originally launched in 2006. While not officially sold in the United States, the Pajero has been a prominent vehicle in markets like Europe, Australia, and Asia, renowned for its off-road capability and robust construction. The facelift brought styling updates, improved efficiency, and refinements to the interior. This particular version, equipped with the 3.2-liter DI-DC diesel engine, was primarily aimed at buyers seeking a capable and comfortable vehicle for both on and off-road adventures.
Mitsubishi Pajero IV (Facelift 2012): Overview
The Pajero IV, even in its facelifted form, remains a traditional SUV in an era increasingly dominated by crossover vehicles. It distinguishes itself with a separate body-on-frame chassis, a feature that contributes to its durability and off-road prowess. The 2012 facelift included changes to the front fascia, including the grille, headlights, and bumper, giving it a more modern appearance. The interior also received minor updates, focusing on improved materials and ergonomics. The two-seat configuration of this specific model is somewhat unusual, suggesting it may have been geared towards commercial or specialized applications, prioritizing cargo space over passenger capacity.
Engine & Performance
Powering the 2012 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 DI-DC is a 3.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the 4M41. This engine produces 197 horsepower at 3800 rpm and 441 Nm (325.26 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2000 rpm. The engine utilizes a diesel commonrail fuel injection system and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 10.6 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 4.8 kg/Nm. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 9.7 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 9.2 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 180 km/h (111.85 mph). Fuel economy is rated at 7.8 liters per 100 kilometers combined (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg), with urban consumption at 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg) and extra-urban at 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg). CO2 emissions are rated at 207 g/km.
Design & Features
The Pajero IV (facelift 2012) maintains the classic SUV profile, characterized by its boxy shape and high ground clearance. The body-on-frame construction provides a robust foundation for off-road driving. This particular model is a two-door configuration, which is less common than the five-door version. The two-seat layout maximizes cargo capacity, making it suitable for commercial use or those needing to transport large items. The vehicle features a five-speed manual transmission and an all-wheel-drive (4×4) system, providing excellent traction in various conditions. Suspension consists of a double wishbone setup at the front and an independent multi-link spring suspension with a stabilizer bar at the rear. Braking is handled by ventilated discs at the front and discs at the rear, assisted by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Power steering is electrically assisted. The vehicle rides on 265/60 R18 tires mounted on 7.5J x 18 inch wheel rims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Pajero |
| Generation | Pajero IV (facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.2 DI-DC (197 Hp) 4×4 2 Seat |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 207 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 197 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Torque | 441 Nm @ 2000 rpm (325.26 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 4M41 |
| Engine displacement | 3200 cm3 (195.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 98.5 mm (3.88 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 105 mm (4.13 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.8 l (10.36 US qt | 8.62 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2095 kg (4618.68 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2665 kg (5875.32 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1650 l (58.27 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 69 l (18.23 US gal | 15.18 UK gal) |
| Length | 4385 mm (172.64 in.) |
| Width | 1875 mm (73.82 in.) |
| Height | 1870 mm (73.62 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2545 mm (100.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18 |
The Mitsubishi Pajero IV (facelift 2012) 3.2 DI-DC remains a compelling choice for those seeking a durable, capable, and relatively efficient SUV, particularly in regions where off-road capability is highly valued. Its robust construction and reliable diesel engine ensure it can handle demanding conditions, while the facelifted design provides a more modern aesthetic.
