MITSUBISHI LAUNCH REVAMPED PAJERO / SHOGUN FOR JAPAN

(Mitsubishi Motors press release - 02 September 1999)

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation announces the launch of the first fully redesigned Pajero / Shogun series in eight and a half years. The company launched the first Pajero in 1982. Since then, sales of this SUV have topped 470,000 in Japan alone and 1,260,000 units overseas in 170 countries. Direct-Injection diesel models of the new third series went on sale in Japan on Thursday 2 September, and GDI*1 models on Friday 1 October at Mitsubishi's dealerships throughout Japan.

A brand-new 3.2-litre direct-injection diesel power unit enables the new Pajero to clear the Japanese 2005 diesel vehicle fuel consumption standards, and to comply with the Japanese Long-term Emissions Regulations. Meanwhile, the ultra-efficient 3.5-litre V6 GDI gasoline engine enables the new Pajero both to clear the 2010 fuel consumption requirements, and to comply with the Japanese 2000 Emissions Regulations.

The new Pajero uses a lightweight but very strong monocoque construction, in which the frame is an integral part of the body shell, replacing the separate body and frame construction employed to date. In addition to reducing weight of long body models by some 100kg, this construction realizes improved handling stability and ride comfort, as a result of its lower center of gravity, as well as a three-fold increase in bending and torsional strength.

Long body models feature improved straight-line stability and ride comfort from an overall length of 4735mm (+ 55mm), bumper-to-bumper length of 4625mm (-5mm), and wheelbase of 2780mm (+55mm). Lowering the floor 50mm, increasing overall width to 1875mm (+100mm), lowering overall height to 1855mm (-45mm), and a ground clearance of 235mm has lowered the center of gravity and realised a wider track for improved handling stability.

Short body models feature significantly improved straight-line stability and ride comfort from an overall body length of 4220mm (+160mm), bumper-to-bumper length of 4110mm (+60mm) and wheelbase of 2545mm (+125mm).

The exterior styling has been developed from the previous generation's theme. While retaining the trademark "dynamic and functional" Pajero identity, the styling projects a very distinguished appearance that alludes to the Rally-Raid Mitsubishi racers.

For long body models, the styling has been developed to project a grand and prestigious appearance. Short body models are distinguished by styling of a more dynamic flavour. The headlight and indicators are housed in a single molding of aggressive design, adding to Pajero's traditional muscular looks. The use of curvy front wings adds to the Pajero's already powerful appearance, and also improves forward-side visibility.

Short body models feature a more pronounced center pillar, which makes the body look stronger and more solid and also points to the new Shogun Pinin.

The new Pajero is powered by Mitsubishi's brand-new direct-injection diesel engine that combines high output and torque with very low fuel consumption. The 4M41 is a 3.2-litre in-line 4-cylinder power unit with 4-valves per cylinder, a DOHC valvetrain, and intercooler-turbocharger. The 4M41 tops its class by generating maximum output of 174bhp as well as returning 27% better fuel consumption than its predecessor and clearing the Japanese 2005 diesel vehicle fuel consumption standards. The use of injection pump, catalytic converter and other advanced technology also enables the new engine to comply with Japanese Long-term Emission Requirements, as mentioned already.

Gasoline models are powered by an improved and even cleaner version of Mitsubishi's 3.5-litre V6 GDI power unit that realises low fuel consumption with high outputs, as well as being good to the environment. Despite its large displacement, and high 219bhp output, this engine meets Japanese 2010 fuel consumption standards. It also reduces carbon monoxide and NOx emissions by 70% to comply with Japanese 2000 Emission Requirements. These eco-friendly engines mean that all models in the new Pajero series qualify for the lower vehicle acquisition tax rate introduced by the Japanese government for low-fuel consumption motor vehicles in April this year.

The new Pajero series features the Super Select 4WD II drivetrain, the latest evolution in Mitsubishi's Super Select 4WD system. Evolutionary changes in the system include the replacement of the mechanical drive mode selector by an electrically driven selector, realising a significant improvement in operational ease. In addition, the new SS4 II automatically switches front-rear torque split between 3:7 and 5:5 to achieve maximum traction for any given surface condition, in a similar manner to the latest Isuzu Trooper.

The new Pajero series is available with either a 4-speed version of Mitsubishi's smart INVECS-II automatic transmission or INVECS-II with Sport Mode automatic transmission in 4 or 5-speed versions, which incorporates 'Adaptive Shift Control' and 'Optimal Shift Control' for safer and easier driving.

All-round independent suspension is by double wishbone with coil springs at the front and by a multi-link arrangement at the rear. This gives improved ride and comfort whether driving on tarmac or off-road and, together with the new Pajero's lower center of gravity, wider track and longer wheel stroke. The use of an hydraulic booster improves braking performance and response.

Replacing the flip-up seats on the previous series, the third-row seat can now either be stowed under the floor or removed from the vehicle to realise a totally flat cargo space when required.

More models in the new Pajero series are fitted as standard with the Mitsubishi Multi-Communication System (MMCS), which uses a 7-inch display panel to show information relating to the navigation system, in-car entertainment, and air-conditioner status.

The floor-mounted console box in the front compartment is now larger and has been made more convenient and easier to use by integrating it with the central armrest and by fitting it with on an adjustable slide.

The tailgate door now houses the emergency triangle, as well as a detachable and portable tool kit.

The new Pajero uses Mitsubishi's RISE (Realized Impact Safety Evolution) advanced safety body, which comprises high impact-energy absorbing front and rear sections and a very strong and rigid cabin structure, in a monocoque construction.

All models are fitted as standard with airbags for driver and front passenger, Mitsubishi's multi-mode anti-lock braking system, child seat locating rear seat belts, and power windows fitted with Mitsubishi's anti-trapping device. Side airbags and a rearview camera are available at an extra charge.

To prevent theft, all models are fitted as standard with an engine immobilising system. The system comprises a transmitter built into the ignition key, an immobilising unit with integral antenna, and an engine ECU. Unless a key that is recognised by the system is used, the system prevents the engine from being started by shutting off the fuel supply.

We will report on the UK and Europe specifications closer to the on-sale date. Expect equipment levels to be less generous!

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