Mitsubishi Pajero: Updated 2009 Model

Motoring Channel Staff - 18/December/2008

Adelaide, Australia – Mitsubishi Motors Australia has launched the new 2009 model NT Pajero which will be on sale as of the 26th of December.

The updated Pajero comes in for a number changes, most notably an upgraded diesel engine with more oomph.

Outputting more power and torque, the 3.2-litre turbo diesel engine also allows for an increase in towing capacity, now at 3,000kg (up from 2,500kg).

Some of the other changes to the range include a revised product line-up with two new models entering the range: the entry level GL and the family-friendly GLS.

According to Robert McEniry, Mitsubishi’s President and Chief Executive Officer, the 2009 Pajero range is adaptable in meeting customer's needs regardless of their design, budget or lifestyle requirements.

"The new Pajero represents a real-world improvement from the previous model and offers benefits such as an engine with more grunt, a quieter and more sophisticated cabin environment, greater towing capacity and an improved exterior aesthetic.

"And when you add all this to the dynamite-value safety and performance package that Pajero has always represented - well, who could ask for anything more?" queried Mr McEniry.

Pricing for the 2009 model Mitsubishi Pajero is as follows:

 Pajero R 3-door SWB 3.8 V6 petrol $43,990
 Pajero R 3-door SWB 3.2 CDi diesel $45,990

 Pajero X 3-door SWB 3.8 V6 petrol $50,990
 Pajero X 3-door SWB 3.2 CDi diesel $53,490

 Pajero GL 5-door LWB 3.2 CDi diesel $47,790

 Pajero GLX 5-door LWB 3.8 V6 petrol $50,790
 Pajero GLX 5-door LWB 3.2 CDi diesel $52,790

 Pajero GLS 5-door LWB 3.8 V6 petrol $54,790
 Pajero GLS 5-door LWB 3.2 CDi diesel $56,790

 Pajero VRX 5-door LWB 3.8 V6 petrol $63,990
 Pajero VRX 5-door LWB 3.2 CDi diesel $66,490

 Pajero Exceed 5-door LWB 3.8 V6 petrol $72,290
 Pajero Exceed 5-door LWB 3.2 CDi diesel $74,790

Exceed and short wheel base 3-door models are equipped with 5-speed automatic transmissions only, and all other listed prices are for the 5-speed manuals (the auto is a $3,000 option).

The new 3.2-litre turbo diesel engine is at the heart of the changes to the new Pajero, now producing 147kW of power @ 3800rpm and 441Nm of torque @ 2000rpm. This is an 18% improvement in both power and torque over the former diesel model.

Fuel efficiency on the diesel engine has been improved by 13% as well.

The 3.8-litre V6 engine returns for active duty and belts out 184kW @ 6000rpm and 329Nm @ 2750rpm. The MIVEC petrol engine has more power but less torque than the diesel engine, and costs a bit less than the diesel as well.

Switching between high and low speed cam profiles to drive the twin intake valves, the Pajero’s 3.8-litre V6 petrol engine produces a very flexible power delivery with on-road relaxed performance across the full rev range. This engine is also Euro 4 compliant and LPG compatible.

Priced at $47,790, the new entry level Mitsubishi Pajero GL variant is aimed at family buyers and is offered with the diesel engine and is fitted with 17-inch steel wheels, fabric seat trim, and it also gets a CD stereo and either five or seven seats.

Some of the other changes to the new '09 Pajero include an updated cabin and improved sound absorbing materials aimed at providing occupants with a more relaxing journey and "increased driving pleasure for all occupants."

The mid-range GLX variant carries over from the previous range and another all-new model is the GLS. It gets features and equipment previously only available on top-of-the-range vehicles, like standard side and curtain airbags, rear air conditioning and side steps, front fog lamps and a newly designed full chrome grille.

The VRX models are only available with automatic transmission and come with full leather seat trim, power front seats, new front door trim and a lidded console, along with a rear diff lock on diesel variants. 

The VRX Pajeros can also be optioned with the Mitsubishi Multi Communication System or MMCS (seven-inch colour touch screen with satellite navigation) plus a reverse camera, maintenance information, Bluetooth functionality and full iPod compatibility.

Sitting at the top of the revised Pajero range is the Exceed. It sits on 18-inch alloy wheels, has chrome highlights on the exterior to communicate its luxury appointments and of course there's lots of wood and leather in the cabin. 

The Pajero Exceed also gets automatic light sensing headlamps and rain sensing wipers, an MMCS system which is integrated with a Rockford Acoustic Design premium audio system and a rear seat entertainment DVD system all as standard.

All Pajero models are 4-wheel drive and a new colour from the European range has been added: Ironbark.

Mitsubishi Australia's chief Robert McEniry summed up the new 2009 model year NT Pajero as "an inspired update to a legendary vehicle."

"Twenty-five years ago, the Pajero forged its reputation as a rugged, go-anywhere four-wheel drive. Then it blazed a trail in terms of occupant comfort and driving refinement," McEniry added.

"With these 2009 model year updates, the new Pajero can go anywhere, with more power, more comfort, more towing ability, and more efficiency. It is little wonder so many people “Love that Car!”" concluded Mr McEniry.

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