Tunisia World Cup

I remember the first time I took my family off-roading in our Mitsubishi Pajero Sport—my eldest son Jimuel couldn't stop talking about the adventure for weeks. That experience taught me how crucial the right vehicle features are when you're navigating challenging terrain while keeping your loved ones comfortable and safe. The Pajero Sport has been my trusted companion on numerous expeditions, and through these journeys, I've come to appreciate ten essential features that make this vehicle stand out in the crowded SUV market. Let me walk you through what makes this machine so capable, drawing from personal experiences that might just convince you it's the perfect partner for your next off-road adventure.

First off, the Super Select 4WD-II system is an absolute game-changer. Unlike many modern SUVs that offer simplified all-wheel-drive systems, Mitsubishi's approach gives you multiple driving modes to tackle different surfaces. I've personally used this system to navigate everything from sandy desert trails to muddy mountain paths. The system allows you to switch between 2WD for normal road driving, 4WD with a center differential for slippery paved surfaces, 4WD with locked center differential for rough trails, and low-range 4WD for extreme off-road conditions. What I particularly appreciate is how seamlessly it transitions between modes—you can shift from 2H to 4H at speeds up to 62 mph, which came in handy when we encountered unexpected snow during a mountain pass crossing last winter. The system uses an electronically controlled transfer case that distributes torque optimally between front and rear axles, giving you confidence when traction becomes uncertain.

Another feature I've grown to depend on is the Hill Descent Control. I'll never forget guiding the Pajero Sport down a particularly steep, rocky decline in Utah's Moab region—the kind that makes your passengers go quiet. With HDC activated, the vehicle maintained a steady 4 mph without any brake input from me, allowing me to focus entirely on steering. The system works by automatically applying brakes to individual wheels, maintaining a controlled speed that you can adjust between approximately 2-12 mph using the cruise control switches. Meanwhile, the Hill Start Assist has prevented numerous awkward rollbacks when starting on inclines—especially useful when you're stopped on a hill with vehicles behind you. These systems might seem like luxuries until you need them, then they become essentials.

The suspension setup deserves special mention too. Having driven competitors like the Ford Everest and Toyota Fortuner, I can confidently say the Pajero Sport's independent front suspension and rigid rear axle strike a remarkable balance between off-road capability and on-road comfort. The front uses MacPherson struts while the rear employs a three-link coil spring setup that provides 8.9 inches of ground clearance—enough to clear most obstacles without constant worry. What impressed me most was how it handled both the corrugated roads of Baja California and the highway journey there without compromising either experience. The suspension absorbs smaller bumps effectively while maintaining composure over larger obstacles, something I've tested extensively with my family aboard, including Jimuel who's prone to carsickness on rough roads.

Off-road driving often means limited visibility, which is where the 360-degree camera system proves invaluable. Using four cameras positioned around the vehicle, it creates a bird's-eye view of your surroundings on the 8-inch touchscreen. I've used this to navigate tight forest trails where stumps and rocks lurked just outside my line of sight. The system includes front and rear sonar sensors that alert you to obstacles, with visual and audible warnings that intensify as you approach objects. It's particularly useful when cresting hills where you can't see what's on the other side, allowing you to inch forward with confidence. The resolution could be better—it struggles in very low light—but it's far superior to having no visibility aid at all.

Power delivery matters immensely when you're climbing grades or navigating deep sand, and the 2.4-liter MIVEC diesel engine delivers where it counts. Producing 181 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque, it has enough low-end grunt to pull you through challenging situations without constant gear hunting. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly under normal conditions but responds promptly when you need immediate power. I've found the transmission particularly intelligent in its programming—it holds gears longer when descending slopes and downshifts appropriately during engine braking. The engine might not win drag races, but its torque characteristics are perfectly suited for off-road work where controllable power matters more than outright speed.

Inside, the Pajero Sport offers thoughtful features that enhance long-distance comfort. The seats provide excellent support during extended drives, with driver's seat offering eight-way power adjustment. Dual-zone climate control keeps everyone comfortable, while the 710-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system makes highway miles pass more pleasantly. Storage solutions throughout the cabin are well-considered, with numerous cupholders, bottle holders, and compartments for storing gear. Having traveled with three family members and all our camping equipment, I appreciate how the interior balances luxury with practicality—materials are durable enough to withstand muddy boots and wet clothing yet maintain a premium feel.

Safety systems have evolved considerably in recent generations, and the Pajero Sport includes Mitsubishi's e-Assist features. The Forward Collision Mitigation system has alerted me several times to animals crossing trails ahead, while the Blind Spot Warning and Lane Change Assist have proven useful both on and off-road. The Ultrasonic Misacceleration Mitigation System prevents sudden unintended acceleration when obstacles are detected close to the vehicle—something that could save you from an embarrassing (and expensive) moment in parking lots or tight trailheads. Having these electronic aids doesn't replace skilled driving, but they provide an additional layer of protection that I've come to appreciate, especially when fatigue sets in during long journeys.

Approach and departure angles often separate capable off-roaders from pretenders, and the Pajero Sport delivers respectable numbers here. With a 30-degree approach angle, 24.2-degree departure angle, and 23.1-degree ramp breakover angle, it clears obstacles that would stop less-prepared vehicles. I've tested these limits multiple times, including a memorable occasion where we navigated a deeply rutted trail that had stopped a Chevrolet Trailblazer in our group. The underbody protection is comprehensive too, with skid plates shielding the engine, transmission, and fuel tank from damage. These aren't flimsy plastic covers either—they're made of pressed steel that has withstood numerous encounters with rocks and debris on my adventures.

Towing capability might not seem directly related to off-roading, but it becomes crucial when you're bringing along toys or equipment. With a 3,500 kg braked towing capacity, the Pajero Sport can handle substantial loads. I've regularly towed a 2,400 kg off-road trailer through challenging terrain without issue, thanks to the Trailer Stability Assist that monitors sway and applies corrective braking when needed. The integrated trailer hitch maintains solid ground clearance unlike some aftermarket solutions that hang too low. Whether you're hauling jet skis to a remote lake or bringing along an off-road camper, this capability expands your adventure possibilities significantly.

Finally, the overall durability and reliability of the Pajero Sport have won my trust over years of ownership. Having put nearly 85,000 kilometers on my vehicle across every type of terrain imaginable, it has required nothing beyond routine maintenance. The body-on-frame construction provides a solid foundation that withstands twisting forces on uneven ground, while the electronic systems have proven resistant to moisture and dust infiltration. This reliability gives me confidence to venture further from civilization, knowing the vehicle will get me home again—a peace of mind that's priceless when you're exploring remote areas with your family.

Looking back at all the adventures we've shared in our Pajero Sport, from that first tentative off-road trip with Jimuel to recent cross-country expeditions, these ten features have consistently proven their worth. They transform what could be a stressful endeavor into an enjoyable experience, allowing you to focus on the journey rather than worrying about your vehicle's capabilities. While no SUV is perfect for every situation, the Pajero Sport's thoughtful combination of technology, durability, and comfort creates a package that's remarkably capable across diverse conditions. Your next off-road adventure deserves a vehicle that enhances rather than limits your experience, and in my years of testing various SUVs, few deliver on that promise as consistently as this one.