The Mitsubishi Pajero II (V2_W, V4_W) is a mid-size SUV produced by Mitsubishi Motors from 1996 to 2000. Representing the second generation of the Pajero lineage, this vehicle was primarily marketed in Europe, Asia, and Australia, where robust, capable SUVs were in high demand. While not officially sold in the United States under the Pajero name, it’s a significant model in the history of Mitsubishi’s off-road vehicles, known for its blend of comfort, durability, and four-wheel-drive capability. The 3.0 i V6 24V GLS variant, equipped with a 177 horsepower engine, was a popular choice for those seeking a versatile vehicle suitable for both on-road driving and moderate off-road adventures.
Mitsubishi Pajero II: A Legacy of Off-Road Capability
The Pajero II built upon the success of the original Pajero, offering improvements in refinement, technology, and overall performance. It was designed to compete with other popular SUVs of the time, such as the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and the Nissan Patrol. The V2_W and V4_W designations refer to different chassis configurations, with the V4_W typically denoting a longer wheelbase version offering increased interior space and cargo capacity. The GLS trim level represented a higher specification, including features like improved interior appointments and enhanced exterior styling.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Pajero II 3.0 i V6 24V GLS is a 2.972-liter (181.36 cubic inches) V6 gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 177 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 255 Nm (188.08 lb-ft) of torque at 4500 rpm. The engine features a multi-port fuel injection system and a compression ratio of 9:1. Power is delivered to all four wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission, providing the driver with precise control. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 12.1 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in around 11.5 seconds. The Pajero II boasts a maximum speed of 175 km/h (108.74 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 11 kg/Hp and a weight-to-torque ratio of 7.7 kg/Nm contribute to a reasonably responsive driving experience, considering the vehicle’s size and intended purpose. Fuel economy is rated at 17.2 l/100 km (13.7 US mpg) in urban conditions and 10.8 l/100 km (21.8 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle.
Design & Features
The Mitsubishi Pajero II is a classic five-door SUV with a body-on-frame construction, providing excellent durability and off-road capability. Its design reflects the styling trends of the late 1990s, with a boxy silhouette and prominent wheel arches. The GLS trim level included features such as alloy wheels, color-coded bumpers, and upgraded interior trim. Inside, the Pajero II offers seating for five passengers and a spacious cabin. The rear seats can be folded down to increase cargo capacity, ranging from a minimum of 1350 liters (47.67 cubic feet) to a maximum of 2600 liters (91.82 cubic feet) with the seats folded. Safety features for the era included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and hydraulic power steering. The Pajero II’s suspension system consists of torsion bars at the front and coil springs at the rear, providing a comfortable ride both on and off-road. The vehicle rides on 265/70 R15 tires, offering a good balance of grip and durability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Pajero |
| Generation | Pajero II (V2_W, V4_W) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 i V6 24V GLS (177 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1996 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 17.2 l/100 km (13.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.8 l/100 km (21.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 177 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 255 Nm @ 4500 rpm (188.08 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 2972 cm3 (181.36 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 91.1 mm (3.59 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 76 mm (2.99 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Kerb Weight | 1955 kg (4310.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2650 kg (5842.25 lbs.) |
| Max load | 695 kg (1532.21 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1350 l (47.67 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2600 l (91.82 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 92 l (24.3 US gal | 20.24 UK gal) |
| Length | 4725 mm (186.02 in.) |
| Width | 1775 mm (69.88 in.) |
| Height | 1900 mm (74.8 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2725 mm (107.28 in.) |
| Front track | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1480 mm (58.27 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Torsion |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 265/70 R15 |
The Mitsubishi Pajero II (V2_W, V4_W) 3.0 i V6 24V GLS remains a popular choice among enthusiasts and collectors, appreciated for its robust construction, off-road prowess, and comfortable driving experience. It represents a significant chapter in Mitsubishi’s history of producing capable and reliable SUVs.
