Locally Bred 2014 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

You've seen these before. You've seen them a lot. Their numbers grow at alarming rates; they're everywhere! Ever since Mitsubishi released them these sold like hot bread. The government especially,couldn't get enough of them. There's a perfectly good explanation for that too. They're made right here at home.

Before you sneer with criticism, let me break it down for you. Mitsubishi, the parent company, produces all the necessary parts: the chassis, rims, wheels, engine and drive train, body panels, interior and everything else. Then they outsource the assembly to a domestic company named Pragoti. The company isn't a new kid on the block. The state owned assembly plant has been making Pajeros, older ones, since forever. They served government offices and staff like loyal canine companions. Roughing up to the most brutal terrain, these vehicles went all around the country. And they did this for years on end too.

Source: Aadnan Zaman

Let's get own to facts now. The Pajero Sport is the latest installment in Mitsubishi's brilliant SUV lineage. The 2014 model we reviewed was the base model with some light interior detailing. You're probably thinking, base model meaning boring, right? Not even the slightest.

Source: Aadnan Zaman

With a completely new design, different from the Pajero V6 and later models, the Pajero Sport 2014 runs on a 2.5 liter, 16-valve, intercooled, turbocharged, DOHC, common-raildiesel engine. Amouthful, right? What that translates to is a beefy engine that'll get you where you need to be, and get you out of places where you don't want to be. The 5-speed manual transmission handles with ease. I expected a engine with loads of grunt power, a locked up tranny and terrible shifts. Instead I was surprised with a pleasant hum, gentle gear shifts and a steady pick up. The engine pumps out around 134bhp, which is enough to plough through Dhaka city roads in exuberant fashion. Sure, it's not exactly joy-ride material, but its impressive numbers nonetheless. The drive is a Super Select 4-Wheel Drive with a heavy hydraulic clutch. Much needed for a car this size. The handling is aided by double wish-bone front suspension, coil springs with a stabilizer bar, same goes for the rear.

Source: Aadnan Zaman

7 seats, rear ones fold down to give massive amount of space for long haul luggage.

My colleagues and I wanted to test the car's off-road abilities and so we simply drove over to Bashundhara R/S. The approach road getting down from the Kuril flyover was the perfect testing ground. The Sport soaked up the humungous potholes like nobody's business. Yes, I'll admit the ride wasn't as pleasant but the car came off unscathed. The buttery power steering made everything easier, and the torque played its part. Mitsubishi tested the car at 40-degree-climbs uphill and the car held composure. It didn't topple, it didn't slip. Why should it though? It has massive 265/70/R16 tyres for effortless grip.

We found a decent straight and I rammed the throttle. The climb up to 100kmph wasn't as fast as I would like it to be, but it did get there with ease. That, I thought was impressive. The engine purred gently and the car plunged forward, without a temper or resistance. I didn't feel like I could lose control and the car made me feel safe, with the safety net of standard ABS and EBD.

Source: Aadnan Zaman

The interior is heaps better than anything Pragoti has built so far. Ever. It's got amazing air-con, faux-leather seats, three cabin lights, cup holders, chromed vents, foldable rear seats and can fit 7 passengers with ease. What more can you ask for a work-horse? Leg space is decent and the view atop the front passenger seat is commanding. Speaking of ride height, I can personally assure you, no pothole will ever be too big for this car. I would know because I literally nudged my head through the gap between a tire and the fender. (Check for pictures on our Facebook page).

Source: Aadnan Zaman

There are downsides though. Like any SUV, the turning radius is terrible. It takes a few turns and moving back and forth to get the thing facing the other direction on a tight road is a hassle. But the smooth power steering makes it easier. The rear suspension is a little harsh and the cabin shivers over gravel. But everything holds together nicely and tightly without the apparent built-in squeaks of the previous Pragoti assembled models. Parts of the interior feel like too much hard plastic. Despite that, this is a huge improvement over the ancient workhorse Pragoti used to churn out.

If reliability, durability, longevity, coupled with brute muscle is what you're in need of then look no further. It's a modern looking, sleek SUV that sacrifices some interior space with its aerodynamic, sleek styling as opposed to the boxy units of yesteryear. For the price, it looks good, runs well and it's locally made. What's not to like?

Specs

2014 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

Engine: 2.5 liter 16 valve 4 cylinder DOHC common-rail turbo-diesel engine (134 bhp, approx.).
Transmission: 5 speed manual gearbox with 4WD low range and diff lock options.
Brakes: Ventilated discs at front, drum brakes at the rear, ABS, EBD.
Wheels: 16 inch alloys with Bridgestone Dueler off-road spec tires.
Options: 7 seats with folding rear seats, keyless entry, dual air-conditioning, CD player, front driver and passenger airbags, halogen projector headlamps.
Price: 70 lakh taka without registration. For details and availability, contact Rangs Ltd.

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