The Mitsubishi Pajero Pinin (H60) represents a distinctive chapter in the Japanese automaker’s storied history of sport utility vehicles. Launched in November 2001 and continuing production through 2006, this particular iteration, the 1.8 i 16V (114 Hp) 5dr Automatic, carved out a niche as a compact SUV. Unlike its larger, more globally recognized sibling, the full-size Pajero (known as Montero in North America and Shogun in the UK), the Pajero Pinin was primarily targeted at the European and Asian markets, where demand for smaller, more maneuverable, yet capable 4×4 vehicles was significant. Its design ethos combined the rugged appeal and off-road prowess associated with the Pajero nameplate with dimensions better suited for urban environments and tighter European roads. The H60 generation, specifically, underscored Mitsubishi’s commitment to offering a diverse range of SUVs, catering to varying consumer needs from hardcore off-roading to daily city commuting with an adventurous spirit.
The Mitsubishi Pajero Pinin (H60): A Compact SUV for Global Markets
The Pajero Pinin, named after the Italian pine marten known for its agility, was designed to fill a gap in Mitsubishi’s SUV lineup. While the larger Pajero catered to those needing serious off-road capability and space, the Pinin offered a more accessible and practical option for buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency, maneuverability, and a smaller footprint. It was particularly successful in Europe, where its size and all-wheel-drive system made it a popular choice for navigating challenging weather conditions and narrow city streets. The vehicle’s positioning was crucial in a market segment increasingly demanding versatility and practicality from SUVs.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Mitsubishi Pajero Pinin (H60) 1.8 i 16V (114 Hp) 5dr Automatic lies a 1.8-liter (1834 cm³) inline four-cylinder engine, internally designated as the 4G93. This naturally aspirated engine utilizes a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) configuration with 16 valves – four valves per cylinder – optimizing airflow for improved combustion efficiency. A multi-port fuel injection system ensures precise fuel delivery, contributing to responsive performance.
The engine produces 114 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 118.01 lb.-ft. of torque at 4000 rpm. This translates to a power-to-weight ratio of 85.1 Hp per tonne, providing adequate performance for its class. Power is delivered through a 4-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels via Mitsubishi’s established all-wheel-drive system. While not designed for rapid acceleration, the Pinin achieves 0 to 60 mph in 13.1 seconds and a top speed of 93.21 mph. Fuel economy is rated at a combined 23.5 US mpg (10 l/100 km), with 19 US mpg (12.4 l/100 km) in urban driving and 27.4 US mpg (8.6 l/100 km) on the open road. The engine’s 10:1 compression ratio contributes to both efficiency and performance.
Design & Features
The Mitsubishi Pajero Pinin (H60) is a 5-door SUV designed to accommodate five passengers. Its styling reflects the rugged aesthetic of the larger Pajero, but scaled down for urban environments. The vehicle’s dimensions – 158.86 inches in length, 66.73 inches in width, and 68.31 inches in height – make it relatively easy to maneuver and park. A wheelbase of 96.46 inches contributes to its agility.
The interior offers a practical and adaptable space. Rear seats can be folded to expand trunk space from 12.64 cubic feet to 40.89 cubic feet. The vehicle’s curb weight is 2954.19 lbs., with a gross vehicle weight capacity of 4056.51 lbs. and a maximum payload of 1102.31 lbs. Safety features for the era include an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and ventilated front discs with solid rear discs. The suspension utilizes a spring strut setup at the front and coil springs at the rear, providing a balance between ride comfort and handling. The vehicle rides on 215/65 R16 tires mounted on 16-inch wheels. Hydraulic power steering provides responsive control.
Technical Specifications
| Category | Specification |
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Pajero Pinin (H60) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 i 16V (114 Hp) 5dr Automatic |
| Production Start | November, 2001 |
| Production End | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel Consumption (Urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg) |
| Fuel Consumption (Extra Urban) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel Consumption (Combined) | 10 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.1 sec |
| Maximum Speed | 150 km/h (93.21 mph) |
| Power | 114 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per liter | 62.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 160 Nm (118.01 lb.-ft.) @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine Layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 4G93 |
| Engine Displacement | 1834 cm³ (1.8 Liters / 111.92 cu. in.) |
| Number of Cylinders | 4 |
| Engine Configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Compression Ratio | 10:1 |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel Injection System | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine Aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt) |
| Coolant Capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt) |
| Kerb Weight (Curb Weight) | 1340 kg (2954.19 lbs.) |
| Maximum Weight | 1840 kg (4056.51 lbs.) |
| Maximum Load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk Space (Minimum) | 358 l (12.64 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk Space (Maximum) | 1158 l (40.89 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 l (14 US gal) |
| Length | 4035 mm (158.86 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1735 mm (68.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm (96.46 in.) |
| Front Track | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Rear Track | 1445 mm (56.89 in.) |
| Drive Wheel | All-wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of Gears / Transmission Type | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front Suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear Suspension | Coil spring |
| Front Brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear Brakes | Disc |
| Assisting Systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering Type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power Steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires Size | 215/65 R16 |
| Wheel Rims Size | 16 inches |
