The Mitsubishi Pajero III, produced from 2000 to 2006, represents the third generation of Mitsubishi’s well-regarded full-size SUV. While not widely sold in the United States, the Pajero held a significant position in markets like Europe, Australia, and Asia 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, performance, and off-road prowess. The 3.5 V6 GDI model, equipped with a 202 horsepower engine and automatic transmission, was a popular configuration, offering a balance between power and ease of use. The Pajero III competed with vehicles like the Toyota Land Cruiser, Nissan Patrol, and Land Rover Discovery, appealing to buyers seeking a versatile and durable SUV.
Mitsubishi Pajero III: A Detailed Overview
The Pajero III was a significant step forward for Mitsubishi, incorporating a more sophisticated chassis and suspension system for improved on-road handling and ride quality. It retained the Pajero’s reputation for off-road capability, featuring a robust four-wheel-drive system and ample ground clearance. The introduction of the GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engine in the 3.5-liter V6 variant aimed to improve fuel efficiency and power delivery. The seven-seat configuration made it a practical choice for families, while its durable construction ensured longevity and reliability.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Pajero III 3.5 V6 GDI is a 3.5-liter V6 engine, designated the 6G74. This naturally aspirated engine produces 202 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 318 Nm (234.54 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. The GDI technology, a direct fuel injection system, optimizes combustion for increased power and reduced emissions. Power per liter is rated at 57.8 hp/l. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the front of the vehicle. Paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, the Pajero III achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 10.7 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of approximately 10.2 seconds. Its maximum speed is electronically limited to 190 km/h (118.06 mph). The weight-to-power ratio stands at 10.6 kg/Hp, while the weight-to-torque ratio is 6.7 kg/Nm. Fuel consumption is rated at 14.2 l/100 km (16.6 US mpg, 19.9 UK mpg, 7 km/l) combined, 19.5 l/100 km (12.1 US mpg, 14.5 UK mpg, 5.1 km/l) in urban conditions, and 11.1 l/100 km (21.2 US mpg, 25.4 UK mpg, 9 km/l) on the extra-urban cycle.
Design & Features
The Mitsubishi Pajero III is a five-door SUV with a seven-seat layout. Its body-on-frame construction provides a robust and durable platform, ideal for both on-road and off-road driving. The exterior design is characterized by its boxy shape, large windows, and prominent wheel arches, reflecting the vehicle’s utilitarian purpose. Inside, the Pajero III offers a spacious cabin with comfortable seating for up to seven passengers. The interior features are geared towards practicality and durability, with hard-wearing materials and a functional dashboard layout. Key features include a robust four-wheel-drive system with selectable drive modes, ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, and an anti-lock braking system (ABS) for enhanced safety. The suspension utilizes a double wishbone setup at the front and coil springs at the rear, providing a comfortable ride and good off-road articulation. 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. The Pajero III boasts a fuel tank capacity of 90 liters (23.78 US gal, 19.8 UK gal).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Pajero |
| Generation | Pajero III |
| Type | 3.5 V6 GDI 7 Seat Automatic |
| Start of production | 2000 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 19.5 l/100 km (12.1 US mpg, 14.5 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.1 l/100 km (21.2 US mpg, 25.4 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 14.2 l/100 km (16.6 US mpg, 19.9 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0-62 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 202 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 318 Nm @ 4000 rpm (234.54 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 6G74 |
| Engine displacement | 3497 cm3 (213.4 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2135 kg (4706.87 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2760 kg (6084.76 lbs.) |
| Max load | 625 kg (1377.89 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 | 4795 mm (188.78 in.) |
| Width | 1875 mm (73.82 in.) |
| Height | 1855 mm (73.03 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2780 mm (109.45 in.) |
| Front track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Rear track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | 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 |
| Tires size | 265/70 R16 H |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Mitsubishi Pajero III 3.5 V6 GDI remains a popular choice for those seeking a capable and reliable SUV, particularly in regions where its off-road capabilities are highly valued. Its blend of practicality, durability, and performance continues to make it a compelling option in the used vehicle market.
