While we await the arrival of actual 2023 models from Mitsubishi, the 2022.5 Pajero Sport GSR remains the latest offering. A sporty adventurer, this all-wheel drive seven-seat SUV could quickly become a proud member of your family.
Adopting styling cues from Mitsubishi’s off-roading heritage, its narrow body hints at capabilities suitable for exploring remote un-driven tracks. The ‘Paj’ looks right at home while you take on steep inclines, rough terrain and wallow your way through muddy tracks.
The GSR is utilitarian by design, fit for purpose and ready to do battle, wherever the path may lead. Our test vehicle, draped in Black Mica, feels almost stealthy, with ‘Pajero Sport’ bonnet emblem, ‘GSR’ tailgate badge, and dark exterior accents.
Those match the tough 18-inch black alloys for an aggressive overall feel. Inside, there’s leather seating for all, while the front row is heated and power adjustable. The driver grabs lumbar support too, and there’s ample space throughout the cabin.
Second row seating features split folding and reclining functionality, as well as an armrest with cupholders, while the third row also receives the same fold and recline adjustability. There’s also six cup holders, and four bottle holders in the doors.
If that’s not enough, you get a centre console storage box with lid, centre console tray, sunglasses storage, front and rear door pockets, driver and passenger seat back pockets, rear air conditioning vents, and a rear floor storage space.
With the third row down, there’s 502-litres of cargo space, or 131-litres, with those seats up. Throw down the second row and it grows to a whopping 1,488-litres. That’s pretty much enough room for an adult sized mountain bike, and a golf bag.
In passenger terms, room in the second row is pretty reasonable, although overly tall passengers may need to take advantage of the sliding seat capabilities. The third row is kiddie friendly only.
Dual zone climate controls accompany the 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system up front, which features satellite navigation, wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth connectivity, DAB+ digital and AM/FM radio, two USB-A ports and a HDMI port.
The Pajero Sport’s 8-speaker sound system will have you and the squad NSYNC to your favourite beats, “This I Promise You”. See what we did there (Google it if you need to help to work it out).
Mitsubishi’s smartphone app also works in conjunction with the 2022.5 Pajero Sport too, letting you operate the tailgate, check your vehicle status, monitor fuel consumption, and find your car. You can even sync it with your Apple Watch.
Powered by a 2.4-litre four-cylinder MIVEC turbo diesel engine, with 133kW of power and 430Nm of torque, it has a braked towing capacity of 3,100kg. With a GVM of 2775kg, it can feel a bit sluggish of the line, but goes well once it’s up to speed.
The 68-litre tank is capable of a claimed combined fuel consumption of 8.0-litres/100km, and we managed a best of 8.9-litres and a worst of 10.2-litres during our week long test. The 8-speed automatic transmission is smooth and gear transitions are effortless.
Multiple off-road modes and Mitsubishi’s Super Select II 4WD, with low and high range will have you embracing the rough stuff. Dependable hill descent and trailer stability control simply add to the surefootedness off road.
On the tarmac, it’s pleasantly surprising although not quite as nice, with some of that traditional jerkiness renowned with diesel vehicles under heavy acceleration. It is comfortable though, with excellent visibility.
Sporting a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, there’s a smorgasbord driver assistance functionality, including active stability control, tyre pressure monitoring, speed limit display, front and rear parking sensors, and a multi-around monitor and rear view camera.
The Pajero Sport GSR starts from 65,690 drive away. This includes Mitsubishi’s Diamond Advantage 10-year warranty, 10-years capped price servicing and 12-months auto club roadside assist and membership.
There’s just three colour choices, Black Mica, White Diamond or Terra Rossa. It’s possible to do some real damage to your bank account though, with a long list of optional accessories on offer to customise your ride. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.
You can find out more on Mitsubishi Australia website. If you need finance, check out CreditOne.
Our test vehicle was provided by Mitsubishi Australia. To find out more about 2022.5 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport GSR AWD, contact your local Mitsubishi dealership.
