The Mitsubishi Pajero III 3.2 DI-D, produced from 2000 to 2006, represents the third generation of Mitsubishi’s renowned Pajero SUV. While not widely sold in the United States, the Pajero held a significant position in the European, Asian, and Australian markets as a robust and capable off-road vehicle combined with family-friendly practicality. This generation marked a substantial evolution in refinement and technology compared to its predecessors, offering a blend of comfort, space, and proven four-wheel-drive capability. The 3.2 DI-D variant, equipped with a diesel engine and automatic transmission, was a popular choice for those seeking a versatile SUV capable of both on-road cruising and challenging terrain.
Mitsubishi Pajero III 3.2 DI-D: An Overview
The Pajero III was designed to appeal to a broader audience than previous iterations. It aimed to provide a comfortable and well-equipped vehicle for families while retaining the Pajero’s reputation for off-road prowess. The 3.2 DI-D model specifically targeted buyers looking for the efficiency and torque of a diesel engine paired with the convenience of an automatic transmission. The seven-seat configuration further enhanced its practicality, making it suitable for larger families or those requiring additional passenger capacity. The Pajero competed with vehicles like the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, Nissan Patrol, and Land Rover Discovery in international markets.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Pajero III 3.2 DI-D is a 3.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the 4M41. This engine produces 165 horsepower at 3800 rpm and a substantial 373 Nm (275.11 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2000 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger and a diesel commonrail fuel injection system to optimize performance and fuel efficiency. The longitudinal engine layout contributes to a balanced weight distribution, enhancing handling characteristics. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 13.8 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in 13.1 seconds. The Pajero III 3.2 DI-D has a maximum speed of 170 km/h (105.63 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 13.1 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 5.8 kg/Nm demonstrate a good balance between engine output and vehicle mass.
Design & Features
The Pajero III adopted a more modern and aerodynamic design compared to earlier models. Its body-on-frame construction provides exceptional durability and off-road capability. The five-door SUV configuration offers easy access to all seats, and the seven-seat layout provides ample space for passengers and cargo. The interior was designed with comfort and practicality in mind, featuring supportive seating and a functional dashboard layout. Key features included air conditioning, power windows, and a capable four-wheel-drive system. Safety features, while evolving with the era, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The Pajero III’s suspension system, featuring double wishbones at the front and coil springs at the rear, provides a comfortable ride both on and off-road. Trunk space is highly versatile, ranging from a minimum of 215 liters (7.59 cu. ft.) with all seats in use to a maximum of 1700 liters (60.03 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Pajero |
| Generation | Pajero III |
| Type (Engine) | 3.2 DI-D (165 Hp) 7 Seat Automatic |
| Start of production | 2000 year |
| End of production | 2006 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14 l/100 km (16.8 US mpg, 20.2 UK mpg, 7.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.8 l/100 km (26.7 US mpg, 32.1 UK mpg, 11.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 165 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Torque | 373 Nm @ 2000 rpm (275.11 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| 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 | 17:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.8 l (10.36 US qt | 8.62 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2155 kg (4750.96 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2810 kg (6194.99 lbs.) |
| Max load | 655 kg (1444.03 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 215 l (7.59 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1700 l (60.03 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal | 19.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 4775 mm (187.99 in.) |
| Width | 1845 mm (72.64 in.) |
| Height | 1855 mm (73.03 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2780 mm (109.45 in.) |
| Front track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/80 R16 S |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Mitsubishi Pajero III 3.2 DI-D offered a compelling package for those seeking a versatile and capable SUV. Its blend of diesel efficiency, automatic transmission convenience, and seven-seat practicality made it a popular choice in markets where it was available. While not a common sight in the United States, the Pajero III remains a respected vehicle known for its durability and off-road performance.
