The Mitsubishi Pajero Sport III 2.5 DI-D 4WD Automatic, produced between 2016 and 2019, represents the third generation of Mitsubishi’s popular mid-size SUV. While not widely sold in the United States, the Pajero Sport (known as the Montero Sport in some markets) holds a significant position in regions like Asia, Australia, and Latin America as a robust and capable body-on-frame SUV. It caters to buyers seeking a blend of off-road capability, family practicality, and relative affordability. This generation marked a substantial upgrade over its predecessors, incorporating modern technology and improved refinement.
Mitsubishi Pajero Sport III: Overview
The Pajero Sport III is positioned as a direct competitor to vehicles like the Toyota Fortuner, Isuzu MU-X, and Ford Everest, all of which are popular in markets where rugged SUVs remain in high demand. It distinguishes itself with a focus on providing a comfortable ride alongside its proven four-wheel-drive system. The 2.5 DI-D variant, equipped with a diesel engine and automatic transmission, was a common configuration, offering a balance between fuel efficiency and performance.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Pajero Sport III 2.5 DI-D lies a 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the 4D56. This engine produces 136 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 324 Nm (238.97 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2,000 rpm. While not a powerhouse in terms of outright speed, the engine’s torque output provides ample pulling power for off-road adventures and towing. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. A diesel commonrail fuel injection system ensures precise fuel delivery, contributing to improved combustion and reduced emissions. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and the vehicle’s all-wheel-drive system work in concert to deliver confident traction in various conditions. The vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 166 km/h (103.15 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 14.8 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 6.2 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The Pajero Sport III boasts a traditional SUV body style, characterized by its boxy shape and robust construction. It’s a five-door SUV with seating for up to seven passengers, making it a practical choice for families. The exterior design features a prominent front grille, muscular wheel arches, and a relatively high ground clearance of 218 mm (8.58 in), enhancing its off-road credentials. Inside, the cabin is designed with practicality in mind, offering durable materials and a functional layout. Key features include an automatic transmission, air conditioning, and a basic audio system. Safety features, while not as extensive as in modern US-market SUVs, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The Pajero Sport III’s approach angle of 30.0°, departure angle of 24.6°, and ramp-over angle of 23.1° contribute to its off-road capability. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4785 mm (188.39 in) in length, 1815 mm (71.46 in) in width, and 1800-1805 mm (70.87 – 71.06 in) in height, with a wheelbase of 2800 mm (110.24 in).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Pajero Sport |
| Generation | Pajero Sport III |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 DI-D (136 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 166 km/h (103.15 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 2/Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 324 Nm @ 2000 rpm (238.97 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 4D56 |
| Engine displacement | 2477 cm3 (151.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 91.1 mm (3.59 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95 mm (3.74 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.2 l (8.66 US qt | 7.21 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2015 kg (4442.31 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2710 kg (5974.53 lbs.) |
| Max load | 695 kg (1532.21 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Length | 4785 mm (188.39 in.) |
| Width | 1815 mm (71.46 in.) |
| Height | 1800-1805 mm (70.87 – 71.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2800 mm (110.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1515 mm (59.65 in.) |
| Front overhang | 880 mm (34.65 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1105 mm (43.5 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 218 mm (8.58 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Type of gearbox | automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/70 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.0J x 16 |
The Mitsubishi Pajero Sport III 2.5 DI-D 4WD Automatic, while not a common sight on American roads, represents a capable and practical SUV that has found success in numerous international markets. Its blend of off-road ability, seven-passenger capacity, and diesel efficiency made it a popular choice for those seeking a versatile vehicle for both on and off-road adventures.
