The Mitsubishi Pajero IV 3.2 Di-DC is a mid-size SUV produced by Mitsubishi Motors between 2006 and 2016. This fourth generation of the Pajero, while not officially sold in the United States, represented a significant evolution of the rugged, body-on-frame SUV that had become synonymous with Mitsubishi’s off-road capability. The 3.2 Di-DC variant, specifically the 3-door automatic model produced from 2007 to 2009, was primarily aimed at the European and Asian markets, offering a blend of off-road prowess, practicality, and a degree of on-road comfort. It competed with vehicles like the Land Rover Discovery, Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, and Nissan Patrol in those regions.
Mitsubishi Pajero IV: An Overview
The Pajero IV marked a departure from previous generations with its more refined design and increased focus on passenger comfort. While retaining its robust four-wheel-drive system and durable construction, the Pajero IV incorporated more sophisticated technology and features. The 3-door configuration, like the one detailed here, catered to buyers seeking a more compact and maneuverable SUV, often prioritizing off-road adventures over maximum passenger capacity. The 3.2 Di-DC engine provided a balance of power and fuel efficiency for its class, making it a versatile option for both daily driving and challenging terrain.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Pajero IV 3.2 Di-DC is the 4M41 3.2-liter inline-four diesel engine. This engine produces 165 horsepower at 3500 rpm and 381 Nm (281.01 lb-ft) of torque at 2000 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler and a diesel commonrail fuel injection system to optimize performance and fuel economy. Power is delivered to all four wheels via a five-speed automatic transmission. The Pajero IV’s drivetrain features a selectable four-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing, enhancing its off-road capabilities. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 13.2 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 12.5 seconds. The vehicle has a top speed of 177 km/h (109.98 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 14 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 6.1 kg/Nm demonstrate a reasonable balance between engine output and vehicle mass.
Design & Features
The Mitsubishi Pajero IV 3.2 Di-DC 3-door is a classic body-on-frame SUV, known for its durability and off-road capability. The 3-door configuration provides a more compact footprint, making it easier to navigate tight trails and urban environments. The vehicle seats five passengers, offering a practical interior layout. Key features include a robust suspension system – double wishbone at the front and a transverse stabilizer at the rear – designed to handle rough terrain. Ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels provide ample stopping power, enhanced by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The Pajero IV’s interior, while functional, prioritized durability over luxury. The trunk space is configurable, offering a minimum of 215 liters (7.59 cu. ft.) and expanding to a maximum of 1790 liters (63.21 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4385 mm (172.64 in) in length, 1875 mm (73.82 in) in width, and 1870 mm (73.62 in) in height – position it as a mid-size SUV.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Pajero |
| Generation | Pajero IV |
| Type (Engine) | 3.2 Di-DC (165 Hp) Automatic 3-doors |
| Start of production | February, 2007 |
| End of production | April, 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.5 l/100 km (22.4 US mpg, 26.9 UK mpg, 9.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 177 km/h (109.98 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 165 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Torque | 381 Nm @ 2000 rpm (281.01 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, Intercooler |
| 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 | 2310 kg (5092.68 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3030 kg (6680.01 lbs.) |
| Max load | 720 kg (1587.33 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 215 l (7.59 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1790 l (63.21 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 88 l (23.25 US gal | 19.36 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 overhang | 765 mm (30.12 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1075 mm (42.32 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 | Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 265/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J X 17 |
The Mitsubishi Pajero IV 3.2 Di-DC, while not a common sight on American roads, remains a respected and capable SUV in the markets where it was sold. Its blend of off-road ability, practicality, and relatively efficient diesel power made it a popular choice for those seeking a versatile vehicle for both work and leisure.
