As far back as 1982, Mitsubishi Motors successfully launched the all-new Pajero 4×4, a vehicle tough enough to go where others feared to tread, yet at the same time enjoying the sophistication associated with top-end sedan models. Now in its fourth generation, Mitsubishi Motors has upped the ante with increased power and torque in its 3,2-litre DI-DC diesel engines.

The Mitsubishi Pajero 3,2-litre DI-DC boasts increased performance with an output of 140 kW of power and 441 N.m of torque. Previously, the 3,2-litre DI-DC engine produced 121 kW of power and 373 Nm of torque. Matched to this model year change is a five-speed automatic gearbox, INVEC-II with enhanced gear ratios to better suit the engine refinements on the diesel model.

“We are delighted with our Pajero customers who have remained loyal over the years, and we find that we have an extremely high retention rate. Approximately 80% of our Pajero sales are existing customers. These customers are discerning buyers and find that the Pajero is a perfect fit for their lifestyle. Customers will now have the benefit of more engine power, improved and better performance off-road capabilities and better towing capacity,” says Suraiya Naidoo, Divisional Manager of Mitsubishi Motors.

The engine in the Pajero 3,2-litre DI-DC has undergone a number of technological enhancements to achieve the increased power. An improved pump impeller in the water pump and a modified port form in the intake manifold and the opening temperature on the thermostat have been changed. Certain modifications have also taken place on the cylinder head, injectors and turbo-charger. Not only is this new engine quieter than the previous model, it is also both cleaner and more economical giving improved C02 emissions which are reduced to 245 gm/km from the previous 274 gm/km.

The Pajero is, and has always been, a 4×4 specifically designed to go anywhere, no matter the terrain. The four-wheel-drive system (4WD) comprises of the Super Select 4WD-II transfer case with both Active Stability Traction Control (ASTC) and the rear differential lock (available on GLX LWB only) – developed on the bedrock of Mitsubishi’s all-wheel-control (AWC) concept and delivering significant improvements in both off-road and on-highway performance.

For those customers who embody the Mitsubishi Motors ethos of go anywhere, anytime, Mitsubishi Motors has now introduced the Mitsubishi Integrated Communication System (MICS) into this version of the Pajero. The latest GARMAP™ navigation system is a standard feature across the range of Pajero SWB and LWB models, in both the petrol and diesel derivatives. The latest map updates can be downloaded over the internet, saving the customer the added cost of purchasing updates. The route mapping can be displayed on the 6.5-inch HD TFT digital touch-screen monitor and operated by the satellite controls integrated into the steering-wheel.

The latest GARMAP™ navigation system (MICS) is compatible with previous fourth generation Pajero models sold and can be retrofitted through Mitsubishi Motors dealerships.

The Pajero’s toughness and performance were refined and perfected on rallying terrain. Rallying is a rough, tough sport, which makes enormous demands on any vehicle. The performance of the Pajero’s drivetrain, four-wheel independent suspension and stability and traction control systems have been honed in these extreme conditions.

“It is Mitsubishi Motors unwavering philosophy of “creating new products that surpass their predecessors through motor sports” that enables us to proudly deliver both driving pleasure and peace of mind to all our Pajero customers. The overall package of the Pajero 3,2-litre DI-DC is now more attractive and offers customers and new purchasers who are looking for a large SUV offering a superior ownership experience,” concludes Naidoo.

All models include a 3-year/100 000 km warranty. Also included is a 3-year / 100 000 km maintenance plan on GLX models and 5-year / 100 000 km maintenance plan on the GLS models.

It has been revealed that Volkswagen and Suzuki Motor Corp. are in talks about a long-term co-operation agreement. Rumours of such a tie-up have been going around for some months. According to an official statement, VW will purchase 19.9 percent of Suzuki’s issued shares. In turn Suzuki will use up to half of the amount received from VW to buy a stake in the Wolfsburg company.

Although the two automakers compete in some segments, they reckon they also compliment each other. VW has expertise in diesel technology and hybrid systems while Suzuki is quite strong in the fast-emerging India market. In addition to cars and motorcycles, Suzuki builds marine transportation solutions and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).

If the authorities approve the transaction, the world’s largest car manufacturing alliance would be created. It would surpass Toyota in terms of sales.

Consolidation seems to be the key industry word again. Recently French company PSA Peugeot Citroën announced it was entering into a cooperative agreement with Japan’s Mitsubishi Motors. Italy’s Fiat already calls the shots at Chrysler LLC while Nissan and Renault have been mates for about a decade now.

Via WorldCarFans