After realigning its Pajero Sport 4x4 recently to make it more price-competitive in the Toyota Fortuner's wrestling pit, Mitsubishi is aiming for an even bigger slice of the action by launching a 4x2 version of its Triton-based SUV.
As far as sales are concerned, this is a no-brainer as Mitsubishi SA CEO Jaco Oosthuizen points out that 4x2 models make up around 70 percent of the sales mix in this segment.
Despite what the engine size might have you thinking, the Mitsubishi 2.5 4x2 competes directly with the three-litre Fortuner, offering 131kW and 350Nm against the Toyota's outputs of 120kW and 343Nm. Priced at R419 900, the Pajero Sport also costs R15 000 less than its rival. That kind of money would buy you the 4x4 Pajero Sport, incidentally. Yet while the 4x4 is offered in manual and auto guise, the 4x2 can only be had with a five-speed automatic gearbox.
BELLS AND WHISTLES
The Mitsubishi makes no sacrifices in the standard equipment stakes, offering black leather seating for seven, automatic climate control, multi-function steering wheel, cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, touch-screen audio system and rear park assist with reverse camera.
On the safety front, the package includes six airbags and active stability and traction control.
The Pajero Sport 4x2 is sold with a three-year or 100 000km warranty and a five-year or 90 000km service plan.