All-new Pajero under spotlight

By ALASTAIR SLOANE

Mitsubishi's success in the Paris to Dakar Rally over the last 15 years has helped it develop a fully independent suspension for the new Pajero, which will be launched in New Zealand soon.

The new suspension setup is one of the features in the new model, the first completely redesigned Pajero since 1992. The first Pajero appeared in 1982.

Other new features include direct-injection diesel and petrol engines, a computerised four-wheel-drive system, and "intelligent" four- and five-speed automatic gearboxes.

But it is the adoption of a monocoque body and all-round independent system which will interest rival carmakers, Toyota, Nissan and Land Rover, who are also developing similar units to meet new American regulations outlawing a separate ladder chassis.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee and Mercedes-Benz ML are independently sprung. But while both vehicles have excellent four-wheel-drive systems, they don't have the wheel travel off-road operators like.

Independent suspension improves ride comfort and handling on the highway but many off-road specialists prefer instead the longer wheel travel that simple live axles provide.

The geometry of independent units limits wheel travel and is one reason why such systems have been slow to gain acceptance in off-road circles.

Mitsubishi's move to the independent setup - double wishbone with coiled springs in the front, and a multi-link arrangement at the rear - will therefore be followed closely.

Mitsubishi says the new setup provides more wheel travel than that on the outgoing model with its live rear axle. The new Pajero also has a wider track and lower centre of gravity.

Two engines will be available - a four-cylinder 3.2-litre direct-injection diesel and a 3.5-litre V6 petrol unit, both producing improved power and torque figures and both fitted with the latest immobilisers.

Mitsubishi says the diesel unit offers 27 per cent better economy than the outgoing oil-burner. The petrol powerplant is also more fuel efficient and reduces exhaust emissions by 70 per cent.

Both long and short wheelbase Pajeros are longer, wider and lower than their predecessors.

The vehicle itself has a more muscular appearance, thanks mainly to prominent wheel arches and front fenders and headlights and turn signal housed in a single unit.

The interior is all-new too. Mitsubishi says its designers moulded it around the different seating arrangements to provide a relaxed atmosphere for occupants.

The third row of seats which were of a flip-up design in the previous Pajero can now be either stowed under the floor or removed for greater space.

The rear door now houses a emergency triangle and tool kit. An optional rearview camera is available, providing a picture of out-of-sights hazards on a 15cm screen in the centre console.

Standard safety equipment includes dual front airbags, ABS anti-lock brakes and rear seatbelts for child seats. Side airbags are optional.

No word from Mitsubishi on prices yet but they are expected to be competitive. The Pajero has been a popular vehicle in New Zealand and largely has a history of excellent reliability.