Is a Mitsubishi Pajero the same as a Shogun
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Mitsubishi Pajero: A Legendary SUV with Off-Road Prowess
Introduction
In the early 1980s, large family SUVs were becoming the norm in many markets across the globe. While several of its main rivals, such as Toyota and Nissan, already had models ready to serve these buyers, Mitsubishi lacked the right vehicle for the job. Thus, the carmaker, one of the largest Japanese marques, began work on a new, full-size family SUV. Making its world debut in late 1981, the Mitsubishi Pajero was finally here. Named after a wild cat native to South America, called the Leopardus Pajeros, the Pajero is also known as the Shogun in markets such as the United Kingdom. However, the Pajero and Shogun are essentially the same vehicle.
Generations of the Mitsubishi Pajero
First Generation (1981 - 1991)
The first-generation Mitsubishi Pajero/Shogun remained in active production until 1991. This first-gen Pajero entered the infamous Dakar Rally in 1983, achieving its first victory just two years later. This winning streak continued over the years, making the Pajero the most successful entrant in the Dakar Rally, a title it holds to this day. It was eventually replaced by the more advanced and powerful second-generation model, which became the first Pajero equipped with Mitsubishi’s famous Super Select 4WD system. From this model onwards, Mitsubishi transitioned from a complete body-on-frame platform to a unibody setup while retaining a heavy-duty steel frame integrated into the finished chassis.
Fourth Generation (2006 - Present)
The outgoing fourth-generation Mitsubishi Pajero/Shogun has been with us since 2006. Despite minimal changes over the years, it has received occasional facelifts and added features. In the UAE, the 2019 Mitsubishi Pajero is available in five different variants, including short-wheelbase (3-door) and long-wheelbase (5-door) models. Prices start at AED 96,900 for the base 3.5L (5-door) Pajero, while the fully-loaded 3.8L (5-door) is priced at AED 130,000.
Exterior Design
The Mitsubishi Pajero's exterior styling remains iconic, with a long, wide, and boxy silhouette that suits its designated purpose—excelling off-road while providing decent on-road performance. Key features include:
- Long, sweeping hood
- Wide chrome-garnished grille
- Chunky headlights with xenon projectors
- Deep-chin bumper with an integrated skid plate
- Halogen foglights and LED daytime-running lights
- 18-inch alloy rims with enlarged wheel arches
- Muscular flared fenders
- Tailgate-mounted spare wheel
- Bumper-integrated skid plate arrangement
- Vertically-aligned clear lens taillights
Interior Features
The spacious and well-built interior of the Pajero, while not particularly beautiful, is practical and ergonomically designed. Highlights include:
- Large sunroof and windows for an open feel
- Seats with good support and cushioning
- Dual-zone climate control
- Leather upholstery
- Cruise control
- Power-adjustable front seats
- Cool box
- Keyless-entry
- 12-speaker Rockford Fosgate premium sound system
- Safety features including 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, and brake assist
- Vehicle stability & traction control systems
- All-around parking sensors with rear camera
Performance
The Mitsubishi Pajero is powered by a 3.8-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine, developing 250 hp and 330 Nm of torque. A 5-speed automatic transmission handles gear changes, while a selectable 4WD system directs torque to either the rear or all four tires. The Pajero can reach speeds of 200 km/h and accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in under 11 seconds.
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