Mitsubishi Pajero

The Pajero's history traces to 1934 with the Mitsubishi PX33 prototype commissioned for the Japanese Government. Mitsubishi presented the first Pajero prototype at the Tokyo Motor Show in November 1973 [11] then Pajero II prototype followed in 1978, five years later.[12] The first production version of the Pajero lineage was debuted at the 1981 Tokyo Motor Show before sales officially began in 1982. The Pajero was initially marketed as a luxury, yet rugged and capable competitor to the Land Rover Range Rover or Toyota Land Cruiser of the time.

First generation
Overview
Also called	Mitsubishi Montero Mitsubishi Shogun Colt Shogun[20] Dodge Raider Hyundai Galloper Jinhui Mitsubishi Pajero (China; JV) Hawtai Jitian (China)
Production	1982–1991
Assembly	Japan: Sakahogi, Gifu (Pajero Manufacturing Co., Ltd) Philippines: Cainta (MMPC)[21] China: Zhuhai, Guangdong South Korea: Ulsan (Hyundai Precision Products)
Body and chassis
Body style	3-door SUV 5-door SUV (not on Raider models)
Powertrain
Engine	Petrol: 2.0 L 4G63 I4 2.6 L 4G54 I4 3.0 L 6G72 V6 Diesel: 2.3 L 4D55 I4 2.3 L 4D55T TD I4 2.5 L 4D56T TD I4
Transmission	5-speed manual 4-speed Aisin automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase	5-door: 2,695 mm (106.1 in) 3-door: 2,350 mm (92.5 in)
Length	4,650 mm (183.1 in) 3-door: 3,995 mm (157.3 in)
Width	1,679 mm (66.1 in) & 1,692 mm (66.6 in)
Height	5-door: 1,890 mm (74.4 in) 3-door: 1,849 mm (72.8 in) & 1,839 mm (72.4 in)

The first generation made its debut at the Tokyo Motor Show in October 1981, and was launched in May 1982, officially replacing the Mitsubishi Jeep Delivery Wagon. Initially, it was a three-door, short-wheelbase model available with a metal or canvas top and three different engines options, although more were gradually added, ending with a 3.0-litre V6 on top of the range.

Mitsubishi Pajero rear

• 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol (2000/2.0)
• 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol (2000/2.0 Turbo)
• 2.6-litre 4-cylinder petrol (2600/2.6)
• 2.3-litre naturally aspirated diesel (2300 D/2.3 D)
• 2.3-litre turbocharged diesel (2300 TD/2.3 TD)
• 2.5-litre turbocharged diesel (2500 TD/2.5 TD)
• 3.0-litre V6 SOHC petrol (3000/3.0)

It included features which were unusual for a four-wheel-drive vehicle: a turbocharged diesel engine, a front double wishbone suspension with torsion bar springs, power steering and suspension seats.

In January 1983, only a year following its launch, mildly-tuned production Pajeros entered the world of motor sport.

Mitsubishi Montero LS 5-door (US)

Dodge Raider

In February 1983, Mitsubishi introduced a long-wheelbase, five-door model, available with a choice of two different engines; a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol (badged as "2.0 Turbo" and "2000 Turbo" in some markets) and a 2.3-litre turbocharged diesel. It also came in Standard, Semi-High Roof and High Roof body styles. Outside of Japan there was also the 2.6-liter petrol four, which produced 103 PS (76 kW) in European trim.[22]

The long-wheelbase model increased seating capacity to seven, with available third row seats, which could be folded to the sides for additional trunk space or combined with second row seats to form a bed.

In 1984, the Pajero received turbo diesel engines with higher power/torque ratings, whilst the long-wheelbase models received standard four-wheel disc brakes and four-way adjustable shock absorbers as standard equipment later in 1985.

Mitsubishi Pajero Intercooler Turbo Wagon 3-door

A flagship model was introduced in 1987 with the badge 'Exceed', with two-tone paint, 15-inch alloy wheels, light brown interior, two-stage front heated seats, adjustable suspension seats, rear-air conditioning, remote locking and unlocking tailgate, wool plaid seat and door trim, leather headrests, a three-spoke steering wheel and a sound system with radio/cassette. JDM Super Exceed models featured additional amber spotlights, a steel bullbar, an enhanced audio system and other Japanese market-specific additions such as illuminated corner positioning poles. In 1987, a version of the Pajero/Montero was rebadged by Dodge as the Raider, which ran through 1989.

In 1988, a 3.0-litre SOHC V6 engine was made available across the range, alongside a 2.5-litre turbo diesel engine, with the first intercooler fitted to a 4x4. The long-wheelbase models received a coil link suspension system for better ride comfort and off-road ability.

The 1988 and onward model was available with a 3-door body for a short wheelbase (SWB) or a 5-door body for a long-wheelbase (LWB). Engines included a 2.6 L I4 with 82 kW (111 PS; 110 hp), a 3.0 L V6 with EFI and 104 kW (141 PS; 139 hp) and a turbocharged 2.5 L OHC diesel I4 with 62 kW (84 PS; 83 hp) or an intercooled 70 kW (95 PS; 94 hp). Part-time four-wheel drive was standard on all models.

The first generation platform was later built under license by Hyundai Precision Products as the Hyundai Galloper from 1991 to 2003, and exported to Europe for a brief time starting in 1997. When it was first introduced, the appearance was nearly indistinguishable from the first-generation Pajero. For the revised Galloper introduced in 1997, the Galloper's body was restyled to appear similar to the second generation Pajeros, but the chassis was the same, using the first generation Pajero mechanicals.[23]

Second generation
Overview
Also called	Mitsubishi Shogun (UK) Mitsubishi Montero Galloper Super Exceed (Spain) China: Changfeng Liebao Heijingang (2002–2014)[28] Changfeng Liebao Qibing/6481 (2009–2014)[29] Changfeng Liebao Q6 (2014–present) Guangtong GTQ5490 (JV) Jincheng Pioneer GDQ6470/6471 (JV) Jinhui Mitsubishi Montero (JV) Sanjiu 3-Nine Mitsubishi Pajero (JV) Sanxing SXZ6470/6471 (JV) Shanlu CJY6421D (JV) Wanli WLZ5030XLD (JV) Xinkai HXK2020 (JV) Leopaard Pajero Leopaard Liebao Leopaard Q6
Production	1991–1999 (Japan) 1993–2008 (Philippines) 1994–2012 (Colombia) 2002-2012 (India) 1997–2001 (China; Shanlu) 2002–2021 (China; GAC Changfeng) 2005–2007 (Iran; Bahman Group) 1999-2005 (Spain; Galloper España)
Assembly	Japan: Sakahogi, Gifu (Pajero Manufacturing Co., Ltd.) Indonesia: Pademangan, North Jakarta (KKM) Philippines: Cainta, Rizal (MMPC)[30] India: Tiruvallur, Tamil Nadu (Hindustan-Mitsubishi) Colombia: Bogotá (CCA) Venezuela China: Beijing (BAW) Changsha, Hunan (GAC Changfeng; from 1995) Chengdu, Sichuan (Shanlu) Minhou, Fujian (Bamin) Zhanjiang, Guangdong (Sanxing, Wanli, Xinkai) Zhuhai, Guangdong (Guangtong, Jinhui, Sanjiu) Qinhuangdao (Jincheng)
Body and chassis
Body style	3-door SUV 5-door SUV
Powertrain
Engine	Petrol: 2.4 L 4G64 I4 2.6 L 4G54 I4 3.0 L 6G72 V6 3.5 L 6G74 V6 Diesel: 2.5 L 4D56 TD I4 2.8 L 4M40 TD I4 China: 2.0 L 4G63 I4 (turbo petrol) (2015, 2017) 2.2 L 4RB3 I4 (petrol) 2.4 L 2TZ-FE I4 (petrol) (2015-2017) 2.4 L BJ492 I4 (petrol) 2.5 L DK4A TD I4
Transmission	5-speed manual 4-speed Aisin automatic 5-speed V5A51 Mitsubishi automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase	5-door, Changfeng Liebao models: 2,725 mm (107.3 in) 3-door: 2,420 mm (95.3 in) 2,750 mm (108.3 in) (Beijing BJ2032 Tornado)
Length	3-door: 4,140 mm (163.0 in) 5-door: 4,704–4,740 mm (185.2–186.6 in) 4,879 mm (192.1 in) (Beijing BJ2032 Tornado) 4,801 mm (189 in) (Liebao Heijinggang/Qibing)
Width	1998–1999: 1,775 mm (69.9 in) 1992–97: 1,694–1,786 mm (66.7–70.3 in) 1,829 mm (72 in) (Beijing BJ2032 Tornado, Liebao Heijinggang) 1,791 mm (70.5 in) (Liebao Heijinggang/Qibing) 1,796 mm (70.7 in) (Liebao Q6)
Height	1992–94 5-door: 1,864–1,880 mm (73.4–74.0 in) 1995–1999 5-door: 1,875–1,895 mm (73.8–74.6 in) 3-door: 1,849 mm (72.8 in) 1,801 mm (70.9 in) (Beijing BJ2032 Tornado) 1,890 mm (74.4 in) (Liebao Heijinggang/Q6) 1,941 mm (76.4 in) (Liebao Q6 with roof rack) 1,946 mm (76.6 in) (Liebao Heijinggang/Qibing)

Mitsubishi redesigned the Pajeros for a second generation, which debuted in January 1991, although exports did not commence until later in the year. Just about everything was now new and further enhanced. A new, larger body was available in four different versions; Metal Top, Canvas Top Convertible (short wheelbase), Semi High Roof Wagon and High Roof Wagon (long wheelbase). The short wheelbase models were stretched by 70 millimetres (2.8 in) and the long-wheelbase models by 30 millimetres (1.2 in).

The available engines included a 3.0-litre 12-valve SOHC V6 (6G72) with ECI-Multi electronic fuel injection and a 2.5-litre turbocharged diesel engine (4D56T) with an intercooler. The 4D56T used a top-mounted intercooler with an innovative method of providing airflow. Using two hidden scoops at the top of the grille, these guided air through two ducts in the bonnet that merged into one above the intercooler. This unique design provided several benefits. Firstly, by keeping the intercooler top-mounted, the piping was kept short, resulting in less boost lag. The top-mounted position also allowed for greater durability since it wasn't prone to damage from rocks and sticks when off road as front-mounted intercoolers were. Additionally, having a solid bonnet with no traditional intercooler scoop reduced drag and further enhanced durability in dense jungle by preventing branches from trees that brushed across the bonnet from damaging the intercooler fins. While enhancing durability, this method of airflow is less efficient than a standard top-mounted scoop as the air that flowed through these channels was warmed by rising engine heat, reducing the amount of heat the passive airflow could draw from the intercooler's charge air. This design was replaced by a standard top-mounted intercooler scoop in later 4M40 models.

The second generation also saw the introduction of Super Select 4WD (SS4) [known as Active Trac 4WD in some markets], Multi-Mode ABS and electronic shock absorbers which were firsts on Japanese four-wheel drives. SS4 was ground-breaking in the sense that it combined the advantages of part-time and full-time four-wheel drive with four available options: 2H (high-range rear-wheel drive), 4H (high-range full-time four-wheel drive), 4HLc (high-range four-wheel drive with locked centre differential) and 4LLc (low-range four-wheel drive with locked centre differential). Another advantage of this second generation system is that it gave the driver the ability to switch between two-wheel drive and full-time four-wheel drive at speeds up to 80 km/h (49 mph), whereas the first generation Pajero which used a traditional 4WD system had to be stationary to switch from rear-wheel drive to four-wheel drive (but not from four-wheel drive back to rear-wheel drive). In addition to the SS4, a pneumatic locking differential was included as a factory option. The transfer case is required to be in 4HLc or 4LLc to engage the rear locking differential. Multi-mode ABS, on the other hand, was equally innovative. This meant ABS would be fully functional in all modes of SS4, as braking with a locked centre differential requires completely different braking parameters. Additionally, vehicles were fitted with load proportioning valves which used spring loaded levers on the differential that compressed when payload was increased, subsequently automatically providing more braking force when the vehicle was heavily-laden. The new electronic shock absorber was also factory option with three settings: S (Soft), M (Medium), and H (Hard). This allowed the driver to change ride quality and handling depending on road conditions via a switch on centre console.

Depending on the market, some Pajeros came equipped with an optional "Winter Package" that included dual batteries, heated front seats, heated door mirrors and a rear cabin heater. JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) versions of the Pajero came fitted with chrome front and rear bumpers while export models typically featured powdercoated blue-grey bumpers with embedded brake and indicator lights on the rear.

In July 1993, two new power plants were introduced; a 3.5-litre 24-valve DOHC with ECI-Multi and a 2.8-litre turbocharged diesel with an intercooler. A new, larger transmission and transfer case was also part of the upgrade.

1993 Mitsubishi Pajero GLS hardtop

1994 Mitsubishi Pajero GLS wagon

In 1996 the 3.0 V6 engine was revised, staying SOHC but changing to 24 valves. At the same time the ignition system was upgraded from the old distributor system to solid state coil packs. Power increased to 132 kW (177 hp). The 2.4 L engine was introduced as a smaller power plant; available only in the SWB with revised minor interior and exterior.

The Pajero Evolution was introduced in October 1997, which was developed in specifically to meet homologation requirements for the Paris – Dakar Rally's T2 Class, which a minimum volume of production vehicles to be produced on which the rally car would be based on. The Pajero Evolution was designed from the ground up as a dedicated rally vehicle. It came standard with a 3.5-litre 24-valve DOHC V6 with Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing and Electronic Lift Control (MIVEC). A new, dual plenum variable intake helped increase power and a new, long-travel independent rear suspension made the ride even smoother. This fully independent suspension design set the underpinnings for what would be implemented in the third generation Pajero.

In 1998, vehicles destined for General Export and the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council countries) received a facelift. Wider fenders, new headlights, grille, bumper, fog lights and sidesteps were all part of the redesign. The wide fenders are often called "blister flare fenders". Driver and front-passenger SRS airbags were made standard on models equipped with the 3.5-litre DOHC V6 engine, whilst still remaining optional on GLS models with the 3.0-litre SOHC V6. 1080 of these units were also assembled in Iran by Bahman Khodro Group before being taken off production. An upgraded interior wood trim was made available on 3.0-litre GLS and 3.5-litre models. A leather-wrapped or leather and wood trim steering wheel was also made available, alongside an upgraded suspension and steering system. The 3.0-litre 12-valve SOHC engine was now available with a 24-valve configuration. Models without wide fenders remained as base models (GLX), available with a 2.4-litre 16-valve DOHC engine, producing 110 kW (147 hp). The 3.0-litre 12-valve engine was optional on these GLX models, and remained the base engine on the GLS.

The second generation was introduced on 22 January 1991 and manufactured until 1999. It retained the two body styles, but design was rounder and more city-friendly than the previous bulky model. The 3.0 L V6 petrol engine was retained, now available with a 24-valve head, capable of 136 kW (185 PS; 182 hp), while the 2.5 turbodiesel's power was slightly increased to 73 kW (99 PS; 98 hp). In 1993, the Pajero was slightly restyled, and larger engines were introduced, a 3.5 L V6 with 153 kW (208 PS; 205 hp) and a 2.8 L SOHC turbodiesel rated at 92 kW (125 PS; 123 hp). These versions introduced Mitsubishi's Super Select four-wheel-drive system (known as Active-Trac in the United States), with an electronic transfer shift that could split power between both axles without the need to stop the car. It worked at speeds up to 100 km/h (62 mph).

The first generation Pajero was also marketed as the Hyundai Galloper in Korea, Europe and GCC Countries, while the second generation was in production elsewhere.

This model Pajero remained in production in India till 2012 as the Pajero SFX; the latest generation is sold as the Montero. It is also produced in Colombia from Complete Knock Down parts (CKD) till 2012, with a 2.4l 16 valve SOHC (130 PS) or 3.0l 12 valve V6 (148 PS), both engines are available as a three-door hard top, the five-door wagon only with the 3.0-litre V6.

In the Philippines, MMPC introduced it in 1995 as the Pajero Fieldmaster. There were 2 engines available; the 2.5L 4D56 TD inline-four engine or the bigger 2.8L 4M40 diesel engine both paired to a standard 5-speed manual or Mitsubishi's 5-speed automatic transmission with part-time or full-time 4WD system (a 4x2 variant was also available). It featured keyless entry, leather upholstery, rear air vents, central locking, roof rails, 2DIN 6CD audio changer among other features.[31] By 1999, Mitsubishi axed the "4x4" variant of the Pajero.

In 2003, the Pajero received minor upgrades including redesigned headlights, grille & taillights, new color options, new wheel designs, power adjustable seats, expandable sun visors & wood trim. It is still powered by the 2.8L SOHC engine mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission.[32] Local production of the second-generation Pajeros in the Philippines ended in 2008.[33]

In Venezuela, the second generation was manufactured from 1992 to 1995 under the name of Mitsubishi Montero, it was available in long and short wheel base. From 1996 to 2009 its name was changed to Mitsubishi Montero Dakar, it was only available in short wheel base with 6G72 engine and manual five-speed transmission.

In China, the second generation Pajero remains popular as it was involved in early joint ventures from the 1990s. Companies include Guangtong Motors, Jincheng Motors, Jinhui Motors, Sanjiu Motors, Sanxing Motors, Shanlu Motors and Wanli Motors.

Chinese car manufacturer Shanlu Motors made their version of the Pajero known as the CJY 6421D and was produced from 1997 to 2001 and came standard with the 4G64 engine.[34] Beijing Automobile Works followed suit and produced their version known as the BJ2032 Tornado from 2002 to 2004. The BJ2032 came standard with a 2.2-litre engine sourced from General Motors paired to a 5 speed manual gearbox. The Tornado is 4880 millimetres long, 1830 millimetres wide, 1800 millimetres high and utilizes a 2750 millimetre wheelbase.

The second generation Pajero was discontinued in 1999 (with the exceptions mentioned under Production), and replaced by a new-generation Pajero. After ending production, the second generation Pajero gained unwanted attention in 2002 when TLC member Left Eye was killed in a car crash involving a second generation Mitsubishi Pajero, on a highway in La Ceiba, Honduras. She was the only fatality in the crash. A camera man was filming from the front passenger's seat, and his camera was destroyed on impact.[35][36]

Third generation
Overview
Also called	Mitsubishi Montero Mitsubishi Shogun
Production	1999–2006 2004–2011 (China)
Assembly	Japan: Sakahogi, Gifu, (Pajero Manufacturing Co., Ltd.) China: Changsha, Hunan (GAC Changfeng Motor/GAC Mitsubishi)[42]
Body and chassis
Body style	3-door SUV 5-door SUV
Powertrain
Engine	Petrol: 3.0 L 6G72 V6 3.5 L 6G74 V6 3.5 L 6G74 GDI V6 3.8 L 6G75 V6 Diesel: 2.5 L 4D56 TD I4 2.8 L 4M40 TD I4 3.2 L 4M41 Di-D I4
Transmission	5-speed manual 4-speed automatic 5-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase	3-door: 2,545 mm (100.2 in) 2001–02 5-door: 2,781 mm (109.5 in) 2003–04 5-door: 2,786 mm (109.7 in) 2005–06 5-door: 2,779 mm (109.4 in)
Length	3-door: 4,219 mm (166.1 in) 2001–02 5-door: 4,798 mm (188.9 in) 2003–06 5-door: 4,831 mm (190.2 in)
Width	3-door: 1,875 mm (73.8 in) 2001–02 5-door: 1,877 mm (73.9 in) 2003–06 5-door: 1,900 mm (74.8 in)
Height	3-door: 1,844 mm (72.6 in) 2001–02 5-door: 1,857 mm (73.1 in) 2003–04 5-door: 1,816 mm (71.5 in) 2005–06 5-door: 1,885 mm (74.2 in)
Curb weight	5-door: 2,060 kg (4,542 lb)

Designed in house, the third generation Pajero debuted in the Japanese domestic market in 1999, and in other markets in late 2000 as a 2001 model — and in the Philippines and other developing nations in 2003.

The third generation was redesigned with a lower, wider stance and unibody (monocoque) construction with integral ladder frame chassis for increased torsional rigidity and drastically improved cabin strength when compared to typical body-on-frame (ladder frame) designs. This was in part due to Mitsubishi's RISE reinforcement system which resulted in a chassis and body combination that exhibited impressive structural integrity in rollover accidents and was completely unaffected by severe chassis loading as would typically experienced during off-road recoveries.[43] The fuel tank was relocated between the front and rear axles to improve weight distribution and improve ground clearance. This generation featured a fold and tumble, reclining second row 60/40 split seat and a stowable / removable third row seat.

The Super Select 4 (SS4) system was also further refined: bevel gears were replaced with planetary gears. This meant the front-to-rear torque setting ranged from 33 to 67, with the ability to adjust to 50/50 depending on surface conditions. The system was also made fully electronic, meaning the vehicle didn't have to be in gear to switch between drive modes. After all the upgrades, the system was renamed to Super Select 4WD II (SS4-II).

Alongside rack and pinion steering (as opposed to the recirculating ball system on previous generations), the Pajero also offered a choice of three transmissions; a five speed manual, a four speed INVECS-II automatic and a five speed INVECS-II tiptronic.

An all-new 3.8 litre SOHC 24-valve V6 powerplant was also introduced on this generation. This engine used an Electronic Throttle Valve (ETV).

The third generation was introduced on 2 August 1999 and was scheduled[44] to be replaced by the Autumn of 2006. It received a minor facelift in 2003. The 3.0 L engine's power was increased to 130 kW (180 PS; 170 hp), and the 3.5 L engine was given petrol direct injection, increasing power to 162 kW (220 PS; 217 hp) in the Japanese market (export versions kept the standard EFI engine, now with 149 kW (203 PS; 200 hp). The 2.8 L Diesel was retained only for developing markets, and was replaced by a new 16-valve direct injection engine, with 3.2 L and 120 kW (160 PS; 160 hp). For efficiency, diesel versions saw the intercooler moved to a front-mounted position as opposed to the previous top-mounted position.

In the North American market, the 3.5 L engine was replaced for 2003 by a more powerful 3.8 L unit, with 160 kW (220 PS; 210 hp). This engine was later made available to export markets such as South America, Australia and New Zealand, whilst it replaced the GDI V6 in the Japanese lineup in 2005. The short wheelbase model was not marketed in North America, where the Montero was the only SUV in Mitsubishi's lineup with standard four-wheel drive as opposed to all-wheel-drive. The Montero was discontinued in the US market after the 2006 model year.

This generation Pajero was released for the Chinese market in 2004 and continued production until 2011. Engine choices consisted of the 3- and 3.8-litre V6s which were paired with the 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic gearbox for the smaller units and only a 5-speed automatic available on the larger engine. The trim levels were known as GL, GLS and GLX.[45]

• 
  2000-2002 Mitsubishi Pajero Exceed
• 
  2000-2002 Mitsubishi Pajero Exceed
• 
  2002-2006 Mitsubishi Pajero Exceed
• 
  2002-2006 Mitsubishi Pajero VR-X
• 
  Mitsubishi Pajero Exceed 3200 2 door

Fourth generation
Overview
Also called	Mitsubishi Montero Mitsubishi Shogun
Production	2006–2021
Assembly	Japan: Sakahogi, Gifu (Pajero Manufacturing Co., Ltd.)
Body and chassis
Body style	3-door SUV 5-door SUV
Layout	Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive
Powertrain
Engine	Petrol: 2.4 L 4G64 I4 (China) 3.0 L 6B31 V6 (China) 3.0 L 6G72 V6 3.5 L 6G74 V6 3.8 L 6G75 MIVEC V6 Diesel: 2.8 L 4M40 TD I4 3.2 L 4M41 Di-D I4
Transmission	5-speed manual 4-speed automatic 5-speed automatic V5A51 5-speed automatic V5AFW (A750F)
Dimensions
Wheelbase	5-door: 2,780 mm (109.4 in) 3-door: 2,545 mm (100.2 in)
Length	5-door: 4,900 mm (192.9 in) 3-door: 4,385 mm (172.6 in)
Width	2007–2009: 1,895 mm (74.6 in) 2010–2021: 1,875 mm (73.8 in)
Height	2007–2009 5-door: 1,900 mm (74.8 in) 2007–2009 3-door: 1,880 mm (74.0 in) 2010–2021 5-door: 1,890 mm (74.4 in) 2010–2021 3-door: 1,840 mm (72.4 in)
Curb weight	5-door: 2,110–2,165 kg (4,652–4,773 lb)[46]

The fourth generation debuted at the Paris Motor Show on 30 September 2006 with the series code "NS". It revised interior and exterior styling, dual-stage front front airbags, as well as new side-impact and curtain airbags. The chassis was a slightly revised monocoque with Mitsubishi's RISE technology as featured in the previous generation.

The Super-Select 4WD II system was retained, with an improved Active Stability & Traction Control (ASTC) system and electronic brakeforce distribution with 220 millimetres (8.7 in) of ground clearance and a 700mm wading depth — as well as more extensive skid plating, a carbon-fibre-wrapped rear driveshaft and aluminium bonnet to reduce weight.[47] All models feature a dedicated space and mounting points behind the main battery for the addition of a second battery for harsh winter environments and electric winch usage. The fourth generation retained the fully-independent suspension as the previous generation, with revisions to the rear axle assembly for strength and reliability off road as well as 17" alloy wheels on GLS trim. Brakes were upgraded to larger 332mm front rotors on LWB versions. SWB versions retained the 289mm rotors from the previous generation until later in production. Exceed models featured additional rear air-conditioning with its own rear-mounted compressor for independent control. All models up to and including NX were available with a choice of automatic or manual transmissions depending on the market, except in Exceed and Super Exceed where automatic was the only option.

Engines were upgraded with the 3.2 L diesel gaining Common Rail technology, a DPF for cleaner emissions and producing 125 kW (170 PS; 168 hp). The 3.8 L V6 gained MIVEC variable valve timing to boost power to 184 kW (250 PS; 247 hp) using the factory recommended 95 RON. Both engines met Euro IV emissions standards. The 3.0 L V6 was retained for the Japanese and GCC markets. In Indonesia, this model was only marketed in Super Exceed trim.

From 2009 a new series was introduced; "NT", the 3.0L V6 engine was dropped in the GCC markets, and was replaced by a 3.5L V6 engine, rated for 141 kW (192 PS; 189 hp) and 306 N⋅m (226 lb⋅ft) torque. Further revisions to the 3.2 L Turbo Diesel in the 2011 model year saw the power and torque increased to 147 kW (200 PS; 197 hp) and 441 N⋅m (325 lb⋅ft) respectively, though the addition of a variable geometry turbo among other changes. Both engines met Euro V emissions standards. The 3.8 L petrol engine remained at 184 kW (250 PS; 247 hp) and 329 N⋅m (243 lb⋅ft) (using 95 RON fuel). There is also a panel van version available in markets where such a model can be registered at a lower tax rate. Vehicles also received a rear locking differential as standard and towing was increased to 3,000 kg braked with 180 kg of ball weight. Interestingly, in some markets such as Ireland and Germany, the Pajero received an increased braked towing capacity of 3500 kg up to a 12% grade with a 150 kg ball weight.[48] Backwards compatible with all models from 2007 onwards, it utilised a heavy-duty towbar from German manufacturer MVG GmbH that is only available through authorised Mitsubishi dealerships.[49] The automatic transmission was also upgraded by way of the Aisin-Warner A750F (the same as is used in certain Toyota Tundra, Lexus LX 470 and other heavy-duty / full-size Toyota models) while using Mitsubishi's own INVECS-II transmission programming. Interiors were changed slightly, with upper plastic trim panels moving from a light grey, to a warm beige colour. In certain markets a full beige interior was offered with beige seats and beige lower trim panels. Exceed models gained an 860 watt, 12-speaker, Rockford Acoustic Design sound system with 5.1 surround sound and a 10" DVC subwoofer.

For the 2010 model year the Pajero gained a subwoofer in certain lower spec models as well as a new grille. In the Australian market, a 'Platinum' grade was offered with a reversing camera, fog lamps, a rear deflector and special badging and floor mats as well as Mitsubishi’s Multi Communication System (MMCS) with satellite navigation and Bluetooth.

For 2012, the Pajero model was minimally restyled and given an improved monocoque body and suspension for reduced NVH among other benefits, with the series designation "NW". Interior dashboard and instrument lighting was changed to red for better night vision. GLX and up received an electrochromic auto-dimming mirror as standard.

For the 2015 model year the Pajero received an updated front fascia with a revised grille, LED daytime running lights and a new spare tire cover under the series "NX". This series is the most recent, and the last to be produced. The automatic transmission was available on all trim levels, with manual only being offered in lower-tier vehicles.

The interior was revised to include piano black and metallic trim, or wood grain (depending on the market) for the Exceed and Super Exceed and additional sound deadening material as well as a newly-styled subwoofer housing. Other standard features on Exceed models and above included rain-sensing wipers, an electrochromic auto-dimming rear-view mirror, factory-fitted side-steps, motorised pop-out headlight washers, factory-fitted discrete alarm, rear dust deflector/spoiler, sliding and tilting solar-glass sunroof, rear air-conditioning with its own compressor and settings, mirror-mounted indicators and puddle lights, a rally-style rear fog running-light, aluminium pedals, a new "Smartlink" capacitive touch screen entertainment unit with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a revised sound system with new spatial sound options, 8-way adjustable heated front seats, a reversing camera, sonar reversing sensors, LED daytime running lights, HID auto-levelling headlights, auto-dimming high-beams, and warm-white halogen fog lights.

The engines were carried over and include the 3.0 L 6G72 V6, the 3.5 L 6G74 V6, the 3.8 L 6G75 MIVEC V6, the 2.8 L four-cylinder turbo diesel 4M40, and the 3.2 L 4M41 common rail four-cylinder turbo diesel.

The Pajero was discontinued in the Japanese market in August 2019 with the release of a "Final Edition" model, which was limited to 700 units.[50] Production for international markets where demand remained high such as Australia, Asia, Africa the Middle East and South America (among others) continued for some time, however production has now fully ceased as of March 2021,[7] with the last vehicles (Final Edition) to roll off the production line being delivered as MY2022 vehicles.[7]

The changes in the Final Edition over the standard model are primarily cosmetic only, and include a hood protector, carpet floor mats, cargo lip cover, and a leather-wrapped owner's manual and service book. Other features include a winter package, rubber cargo liner and the Final Edition badging. Flagship Exceed models add a full leather interior, brushed aluminum pedals, and a sunroof.[7]

In 2009, the Irish Defence Force placed an order for 320 units of the Generation 4 Pajero NT for use domestically as well as overseas.[56] The vehicles were selected due to their suitability for varied roles likely to be encountered. The fitout included steel wheels, side steps, a bespoke tubular bullbar protecting the radiator and grille with a large HF antenna mounted to it when used in communications roles. Despite their intended military use, they were not fitted with lifted suspension and off-road tyres. The Pajeros deployed locally were used for prison transfer and Cash-in-Transit escorts as well as for military driving training courses. These were painted a matte forest green colour and sometimes featured an emergency services light bar. The Pajero was also deployed by the Irish Defence Forces overseas as a light unarmoured patrol vehicle and as a communications vehicle for UN Peacekeeping where it sported the traditional white UN livery.[56] In the peacekeeping role some vehicles featured dual HF antennas with an additional encrypted UHF antenna mounted on a box-style mount on the rearmost pillar.[57]

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Mitsubishi Pajero.

• Mitsubishi Pajero website