The Mitsubishi Pajero Pinin (H60) is a compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) produced by Mitsubishi Motors between 1999 and 2006. Positioned as a smaller, more affordable alternative to the full-size Pajero, the Pinin was primarily marketed in Europe, Japan, Australia, and other international markets. It was not officially sold in the United States. The Pinin aimed to capitalize on the growing popularity of compact SUVs, offering a blend of off-road capability, practicality, and a relatively accessible price point. The “Pinin” name itself is derived from the Italian word for pine, referencing the vehicle’s intended use in outdoor environments.
Mitsubishi Pajero Pinin (H60): Overview
The Pajero Pinin (H60) represents the second generation of the smaller Pajero line, following the first-generation Pajero Junior. It distinguished itself with a three-door body style, making it particularly appealing to buyers seeking a nimble and versatile vehicle. While offering limited rear passenger space due to its configuration, the Pinin provided a generous cargo area, especially with the rear seats folded down. The H60 series was offered with a variety of engine options depending on the market, but the 2.0-liter GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engine became a common choice, offering a balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
Engine & Performance
The 2.0 GDI 16V engine powering this variant of the Pajero Pinin delivers 129 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 190 Nm (140.14 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3500 rpm. This naturally aspirated, inline-four cylinder engine features direct fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to improved combustion efficiency and power output. The engine’s displacement of 1999 cm³ (121.99 cu. in.) and a compression ratio of 11:1 further enhance its performance characteristics. Power is delivered to all four wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission, providing both on-road comfort and off-road traction. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.3 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 10.7 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 165 km/h (102.53 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 10.8 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 7.3 kg/Nm indicate a reasonably efficient powertrain for its class and era.
Design & Features
The Mitsubishi Pajero Pinin (H60) is characterized by its compact three-door SUV body style. Its design prioritizes functionality and a rugged aesthetic. The vehicle seats five passengers, although rear seat space is limited. Key design features include a high roofline, providing ample headroom, and a relatively short wheelbase, enhancing maneuverability. The exterior styling is typical of late 1990s/early 2000s SUVs, with a boxy silhouette and prominent wheel arches.
In terms of features, the Pinin offered a range of equipment depending on the trim level and market. Standard safety features included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The interior typically featured cloth upholstery, power steering (hydraulic), and basic instrumentation. The rear seats could be folded down to significantly increase cargo capacity, ranging from a minimum of 166 liters (5.86 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 801 liters (28.29 cu. ft.). The vehicle rides on 16-inch wheel rims fitted with 215/65 R16 S tires. The Pinin’s focus was on providing a practical and capable vehicle rather than luxurious appointments.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Pajero |
| Generation | Pajero Pinin (H60) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 GDI 16V (129 Hp) 3dr Automatic |
| Start of production | November, 1999 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.7 l/100 km (24.2 US mpg, 29.1 UK mpg, 10.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 165 km/h (102.53 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 129 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 64.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 3500 rpm (140.14 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 1999 cm³ (121.99 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81.5 mm (3.21 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.8 mm (3.77 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1394 kg (3073.24 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1725 kg (3802.97 lbs.) |
| Max load | 331 kg (729.73 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 166 l (5.86 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 801 l (28.29 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 53 l (14 US gal | 11.66 UK gal) |
| Length | 3735 mm (147.05 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1735 mm (68.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2280 mm (89.76 in.) |
| Front track | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1445 mm (56.89 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.8 m (32.15 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 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 S |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |


