The Mitsubishi Pajero IV (facelift 2012) 3.2 DI-DC is a body-on-frame sport utility vehicle (SUV) produced by Mitsubishi Motors from 2012 to 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 popular and respected vehicle in markets like Europe, Australia, and Asia, known for its robust off-road capability and comfortable on-road manners. The facelift brought styling updates, improved interior features, and refinements to the powertrain. It primarily competed with vehicles like the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, Nissan Patrol, and Land Rover Discovery.
Mitsubishi Pajero IV (Facelift 2012): An Overview
The Pajero IV, even after the 2012 facelift, continued Mitsubishi’s long tradition of building capable and reliable SUVs. The vehicle was designed to offer a blend of off-road prowess, passenger comfort, and practicality. The facelift focused on enhancing the vehicle’s appeal with a more modern aesthetic and improved features. The 3.2 DI-DC model, equipped with a diesel engine and automatic transmission, was a popular choice for buyers seeking a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. The Pajero’s reputation for durability and its ability to handle challenging terrain made it a favorite among adventurers and those living in areas with demanding road conditions.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2012-2015 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. Power is delivered to all four wheels through a five-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and convenient gear changes. The Pajero’s acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 10.4 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 9.9 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 180 km/h (111.85 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 10.6 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 4.7 kg/Nm contribute to its responsive driving experience.
Design & Features
The Mitsubishi Pajero IV (facelift 2012) maintains the classic SUV silhouette, characterized by its boxy shape and high ground clearance. The facelift brought changes to the front fascia, including a revised grille, headlights, and bumper, giving the vehicle a more contemporary look. The interior offers seating for five passengers and provides a comfortable and spacious cabin. Key features include air conditioning, power windows, power locks, and an audio system. Safety features, crucial for a vehicle of this type, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The Pajero’s large trunk space, with a maximum capacity of 1120 liters (39.55 cu. ft.), makes it practical for carrying luggage and cargo. The vehicle’s robust suspension system, featuring double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension with a stabilizer, ensures a comfortable ride both on and off-road. The Pajero’s all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various conditions, making it a capable off-road vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Pajero |
| Generation | Pajero IV (facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.2 DI-DC (197 Hp) 4×4 5 Seat Automatic |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg, 28.2 UK mpg, 10 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 216 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 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 | 2085 kg (4596.64 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2665 kg (5875.32 lbs.) |
| Max load | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1120 l (39.55 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 | automatic 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 |
