2005 Mitsubishi Pajero

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AWARDS TO MITSUBISHI OFF-ROADERS

Mitsubishi Motors medium and compact 4WDs - Pajero and Outlander - have recently received various accolades in recognition of their on and off-road capability.

Pajero has picked up the 'Best Large 4WD 2004' from 'The Age' newspaper, and the 'Best Medium 4WD diesel' from 'Overlander' magazine. This is the second year in succession that Pajero has bagged The Age's prestigious award.

The Age's judges said: 'Pajero's sophistication is the key. Instead of truck-like separate-chassis construction, the Mitsubishi features a monocoque body, all-independent suspension and a slick five-speed auto. It drives better than you'd expect on tarmac, yet off-road it's up there with the old-schoolers. The Di-D diesel engine is a cracker and the Pajero is roomy, well-equipped and well-built.'

Overlander magazine said: 'If you want the best high-tech diesel in a Japanese 4WD you need to look no further than Mitsubishi's Di-D.'

They went on to say: 'Unlike the separate-chassis / solid rear axle Prado, the Pajero uses car-like monocoque construction and fully-independent suspension that, in part, comes courtesy of Mitsubishi's vast experience ? and considerable success ? in long-distance rallies like the Paris-Dakar.'

And: 'Despite a long rear overhang, off-road ability is also a strong suit, the well performing traction control now standard across the whole model range.'

Meanwhile, Mitsubishi's compact 4WD, the Outlander, has won Sydney radio's 'The World on Wheels' Light Terrain Four Wheel Drive Automobile of the Year award.

Outlander had a significant model change this year, with design changes to the grille, headlamps and rear of the car to give it a cleaner look. However, the major improvement was the inclusion of the 2.4 litre MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve lift and timing Electronic Control) four-cylinder engine which increased power by 20% and torque by 7%. It is the combination of these changes that has resulted in the car winning the award.

Mitsubishi is well-known for its four-wheel drive vehicles, and both Pajero and Outlander take their heritage from the Company's long-standing global motorsport program.

Pajero has been brutally tried and proven in the gruelling Paris-Dakar Rally, having competed in the event since the early 1980s. It has a remarkable and unparalleled success in the event, and for the last four years Pajero has won the 18-day event outright, beating many purpose-built off-road buggies. In fact, in 2001 and 2002 it was first and second outright, in 2003 it was first, second and third outright, and this year it finished first, second and fifth outright.

In Outlander's case it's underpinnings come from the famed Lancer Evolution rally cars. It's drive-train has been proven in rallies on many continents throughout the world, be they tarmac or rugged gravel rallies. It is the same drive-train that took the Evo to four successive world titles in the hands of Tommi Makinen, so it is little wonder that the vehicle is an enjoyable drive with great grip and chassis dynamics.