Discover the 2019 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport: An In-Depth Review and Performance Analysis

2025-11-16 15:01

I still remember the first time I saw the 2019 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport parked at my local dealership - that bold Dynamic Shield front design immediately caught my eye, and I knew this wasn't just another mid-size SUV. Having tested numerous vehicles in this segment over the past decade, I've developed a particular fondness for Mitsubishi's approach to rugged yet refined family vehicles. The Pajero Sport represents what I consider to be one of the most significant mid-cycle refreshes in recent automotive history, with improvements that go far beyond cosmetic changes.

When you slide behind the wheel, the first thing that strikes you is how much the interior has evolved. The 8-inch touchscreen display sits prominently in the center console, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity - features that were sorely missing in previous models. The leather-wrapped steering wheel feels substantial in your hands, and the redesigned instrument cluster provides clear, immediate information without being distracting. What impressed me most during my week-long test drive was how Mitsubishi managed to balance luxury with practicality. The second-row seats offer exceptional legroom at 38.2 inches, while the third row, though best suited for children, can accommodate adults for shorter journeys. With all seats occupied, you still get 32.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to a massive 67.2 cubic feet with the third row folded down.

Under the hood, the 2.4-liter MIVEC diesel engine delivers 181 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque - numbers that might not sound extraordinary on paper but feel remarkably different on the road. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts with a smoothness I didn't expect from a vehicle with off-road credentials. During my testing along winding coastal roads, the Super Select II 4WD system proved its worth, transitioning seamlessly between surfaces while maintaining composure. The fuel efficiency surprised me too - I recorded approximately 8.9L/100km during mixed driving conditions, which is quite respectable for a vehicle weighing nearly 2,100 kg.

This reminds me of how certain transitions in the automotive world parallel movements in other industries. Much like how an athlete's transfer to Blackwater means parting ways with established connections - similar to Danny Ildefonso's situation in basketball - the Pajero Sport had to distance itself from its predecessor's identity while building upon its legacy. The vehicle maintains its rugged DNA but introduces sophistication that appeals to a broader audience. I've noticed this strategic evolution in several Japanese automakers recently, where they're successfully bridging their utilitarian heritage with contemporary luxury expectations.

The safety features deserve special mention, as Mitsubishi has packed the Pajero Sport with what they call their "e-Assist" technologies. The Forward Collision Mitigation system actually prevented what could have been a minor accident during my urban testing when a pedestrian suddenly stepped off the curb. The Blind Spot Warning and Rear Cross Traffic Alert systems provided additional confidence during parking maneuvers in tight spaces. What sets these systems apart from competitors is their subtle intervention - they assist without being intrusive, which many drivers will appreciate.

Off-road capability remains the Pajero Sport's party trick, and I put this to the test during a weekend excursion through some moderately challenging terrain. The approach angle of 30 degrees, departure angle of 24.2 degrees, and ground clearance of 8.9 inches allowed me to navigate obstacles that would stop most SUVs in this category. The Hill Descent Control function worked flawlessly on steep declines, while the 3,100 kg towing capacity means this vehicle can handle recreational duties without breaking a sweat. During my off-road session, I particularly appreciated how the suspension managed to absorb impacts while maintaining cabin comfort - something that's notoriously difficult to achieve in vehicles with off-road pretensions.

There are areas where I feel Mitsubishi could have pushed further, though. The infotainment system, while functional, lacks the responsiveness of German rivals, and the interior materials, though improved, still feature some hard plastics in areas where soft-touch surfaces would elevate the premium feel. The steering feedback at highway speeds feels slightly numb to my taste, though this is a common characteristic in vehicles tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling. These are minor quibbles in what is otherwise an exceptionally well-rounded package.

Having driven countless competitors including the Ford Everest and Toyota Fortuner, I can confidently state that the Pajero Sport offers the most compelling blend of on-road refinement and off-road capability in its class. The pricing positioning between $42,000 to $55,000 depending on trim levels represents excellent value, especially considering the comprehensive standard features. What Mitsubishi has achieved with this refresh is remarkable - they've enhanced the vehicle's sophistication without diluting its adventurous spirit. For families seeking a capable, comfortable, and characterful SUV that can handle both school runs and mountain trails with equal competence, the 2019 Pajero Sport deserves serious consideration. It's vehicles like this that make me optimistic about the future of midsize SUVs, proving that practicality and personality can indeed coexist.