There were big plans for the legendary SUV. Fans couldn’t wait to see the new model in dealerships. Mitsubishi even wanted to expand the coverage. We already wrote about the changes. But then, the COVID-19 pandemic started to spread. Many manufacturers and the whole automotive industry took a blow. One of the victims will be the Pajero SUV, whose production days are counting down. The 2022 Mitsubishi Pajero is going to be the last edition, a few chiefs indicated.
We expected a big step for the nameplate, but forward, seeing a new generation, fresh features, retuned engines. Instead, shocking news. The 2022 Mitsubishi Pajero will be the last model after four decades. Well, in the last 15 years, we see no major updates and the popularity of the Pajero went down. But, there are plenty of fans of the vehicle that would like to see the new run. For now, it is not going to happen and the SUV is very close to an end.
Another crossover SUV based on the big rig will still be in production. The Pajero Sport is a little brother that was launched 15 years after the regular Pajero. Its size and efficiency will allow the vehicle a few more years in the market. After that, Mitsubishi will reconsider options. Anyway, both models are coming unchanged for the final appearance of the Pajero. Sport version might be redesigned in 2023.
Mitsubishi vs COVID-19 Pandemic
After big 2019 season, the company wanted to expand its presence. Instead, the coronavirus outburst slowed things down and brought significant loss in business. It rearranged plans for the future and Mitsubishi decided to sacrifice presence in Europe and North America, where they fought with more rivals. The company will keep the production for Asian countries. However, after the 2022 Mitsubishi Pajero, we will see what happens with the legendary SUV. For now, the production in Japan will end in a few months.
On the other hand, losses caused by the pandemic is not affecting the appearance of the 2022 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport. The crossover was redesigned recently and it is still fresh-looking. Small updates are possible, though.
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2022 Mitsubishi Pajero Specs
A 3.2-liter diesel engine is the main source of power for the 2022 Mitsubishi Pajero. This one is good for 141 kW or 190 hp, and 440 Nm, or 325 pound-feet of torque. The automatic transmission sends power to the front axle, while the all-wheel drive is an optional feature. Selectable modes are available, even for the different conditions when driving off the road. The company is considering adding a new unit for the L200 truck, and the same mill could become the next powertrain for the Pajero.
Pajero Sport comes with a smaller displacement. A 2.4-liter Mivec four-cylinder is under the hood and the crossover SUV features the Super Select II 4WD. Towing capacity is over 3,000 kg, which is nearly 7,000 pounds. In some parts of Asia, Pajero Sport is going to be available with a petrol engine as well. It is a 3.0-liter V6 displacement that produces 220 horsepower, making it the most powerful configuration. Still, it lacks some torque.
2022 Mitsubishi Pajero Versions
The 2022 Mitsubishi Pajero is available in three trim levels. The base model is GLX and it comes with an 8-inch touchscreen display, rear parking camera, and room for seven passengers. Of course, plenty of options are also there as additional upgrades. The Pajero GLS is probably the most popular setup. The mid-range offer includes parking sensors, automatic wipers, heated front buckets with power adjusting, and 18-inch wheels. The audio system is boosted by the latest Rockford sound. The top of the lineup Exceed model will use all of these accessories and add a sunroof, leather upholstery, and a few chromed details.
Pajero Sport is going to use the same badges, but the packages are slightly different. The GLX features active cruise control and 8-speed automatic transmission. A seven-seat configuration is available on the GLS. This model also comes with a power tailgate, dual-zone air conditioning, and navigation. Deluxe package is a valuable addition, with leather seats and a multi-around monitor. The 2022 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport Exceed also adds more speakers, safety options, and a remote smartphone app.
What’s Next?
The company announced that they won’t produce Pajero after the 2022 season. But, it doesn’t mean the legendary SUV is about to be discontinued. Fans are looking at it as a sort of break, until the situation with the pandemic starts to cool off. For now, it is still unknown when the next update of Pajero is going to happen. Its smaller sibling is kind of consolation.
