The Mitsubishi Pajero Sport GSR stands as the culmination of a decade-long model run, offering one final refined iteration before a significant generational overhaul expected in 2026. As the SUV segment continues to evolve with advancements in technology, electrification, and modern safety features, the Pajero Sport remains true to its roots—offering a rugged, off-road-ready package that appeals to adventure enthusiasts and families alike.
This review dives deep into the Pajero Sport GSR, exploring its key specifications, performance, interior features, and overall value. While this SUV may not boast the latest in cutting-edge technology, it holds firm in its segment as a capable and well-priced alternative to more premium rivals.
Key Specifications: A Practical and Capable Seven-Seater
The Pajero Sport GSR, positioned in the mid-size SUV segment, blends old-school reliability with modern amenities. Its price point, specifications, and features make it an attractive option for buyers looking for a robust family hauler that can handle tough terrains with ease.
Pricing and Positioning
- Base Price: $64,840 (plus on-road costs)
- As Tested: $69,215
- Market Segment: Mid-size seven-seat SUV
While the Pajero Sport is competitively priced, it faces tough competition from the Ford Everest, Isuzu MU-X, and even new contenders like the GWM Tank 500. However, Mitsubishi’s generous warranty and proven off-road credentials help it stand out.
Powertrain
- Engine: 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel
- Power: 133kW @ 3500rpm
- Torque: 430Nm @ 2500rpm
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Drive Type: Selectable all-wheel drive
The Pajero Sport’s powertrain remains largely unchanged, featuring a reliable diesel engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. While not the most powerful in the segment, it delivers consistent performance suited for long highway drives and off-road adventures.
Interior and Practicality: Roomy, Functional, and Comfortable
A key selling point of the Pajero Sport is its spacious interior, offering seating for seven and a well-designed cabin that prioritizes comfort and utility.
Seating and Space
- Configuration: Seven seats
- Boot Volume:
- 131L (third row up)
- 502L (second row up)
- 1,488L (maximum)
Despite its age, the Pajero Sport remains one of the more practical SUVs in its class, providing ample cargo space and flexible seating configurations. The third-row seats, while slightly cramped for adults, serve well for children or occasional use.
Key Interior Features
- Leather seats with diamond quilting
- Digital dashboard
- 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- 220V/150W power outlet in the middle row
The inclusion of leather upholstery and a digital dashboard gives the Pajero Sport a somewhat premium feel, though some competitors offer more modern interior designs. The infotainment system, while functional, lacks wireless connectivity, which may be a downside for tech-savvy buyers.
Performance and Driving Dynamics: Built for the Rough, Not the Rush
While the Pajero Sport GSR is a comfortable highway cruiser, it isn’t designed for rapid acceleration or razor-sharp handling. Instead, it focuses on delivering a stable and composed ride.
Driving Characteristics
- Comfortable highway cruiser
- Slow steering response
- Soft suspension setup
- Diesel engine with gradual power delivery
The steering is light and easy to handle, but it lacks the quick response found in more modern SUVs. The soft suspension setup helps absorb road imperfections but can feel floaty at higher speeds.
Off-Road Capabilities
One of the biggest strengths of the Pajero Sport is its off-road prowess. Mitsubishi has ensured that it remains a serious contender for adventure-seekers.
- Full-time four-wheel drive system
- Ground clearance: 218mm
- Wading depth: 700mm
- Approach/Departure/Breakover Angles: 30 / 24.2 / 23.1 degrees
Thanks to its high ground clearance and solid off-road geometry, the Pajero Sport can tackle rough trails and water crossings with confidence. The selectable 4WD system further enhances its capability, making it a great choice for those who venture off the beaten path.
Towing and Payload: A Capable Workhorse
For buyers looking to tow heavy loads, the Pajero Sport GSR offers a reasonable towing capacity but falls slightly short of segment leaders.
- Tow Rating: 3,100kg (braked)
- Payload: 645kg
- Towball Download: 310kg
While 3,100kg is respectable, some rivals like the Ford Everest can tow up to 3,500kg, giving them a slight edge for those with heavier trailers or caravans. Nonetheless, for most practical applications, the Pajero Sport holds its own.
Running Costs and Warranty: Mitsubishi’s Strong Selling Point
One of the most compelling reasons to choose the Pajero Sport is Mitsubishi’s industry-leading warranty and affordable servicing costs.
Warranty
- Standard: 5 years/100,000km
- Extended: 10 years/200,000km (with dealer servicing)
Mitsubishi’s extended 10-year warranty is a significant advantage, offering long-term peace of mind and making the Pajero Sport an excellent choice for those planning to keep their vehicle for many years.
Servicing Costs
- Service Interval: 12 months/15,000km
- 3-Year Cost: $1,497
- 5-Year Cost: $2,895
- 10-Year Cost: $7,490
With servicing costs remaining relatively low, the Pajero Sport is an economical choice in terms of ownership expenses.
Fuel Efficiency
- Claimed Consumption: 8.0L/100km
- Tested Consumption: 9.3L/100km
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 68 litres
The real-world fuel consumption figure of 9.3L/100km is slightly higher than the claimed efficiency but still reasonable for a vehicle of this size and capability.
Pros and Cons: Weighing the Pajero Sport GSR
Pros
✅ Long warranty and low running costs
✅ Comfortable highway ride
✅ Spacious interior with flexible cargo options
✅ Excellent off-road capabilities
Cons
❌ Aging platform with dated interior design
❌ Slow performance compared to rivals
❌ Limited modern safety features
❌ No official ANCAP safety rating for this variant
Verdict: Is the Pajero Sport GSR Still a Smart Buy?
The Mitsubishi Pajero Sport GSR remains a reliable, no-nonsense SUV that offers excellent practicality, solid off-road capability, and a competitive price point. While it doesn’t feature the latest in safety or infotainment technology, its durability and Mitsubishi’s long warranty make it an appealing choice for those seeking a dependable adventure vehicle.
However, with an all-new model set to arrive in 2026, buyers should consider whether they prefer the proven reliability of the current Pajero Sport or if they’re willing to wait for a more modern, next-generation redesign.
Overall Rating: 7.3/10
Recommended Alternatives
If the Pajero Sport GSR doesn’t quite meet your needs, consider these alternatives:
- Ford Everest – Offers superior towing capacity and modern safety features
- Isuzu MU-X – A solid diesel SUV with good off-road capability
- GWM Tank 500 – A new player with a feature-rich package at a competitive price
For those seeking a budget-friendly, off-road-ready SUV with proven reliability, the Pajero Sport remains a strong contender. However, if cutting-edge technology and the latest in safety features are priorities, it may be worth exploring newer alternatives.