Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) for gasoline, Direct Injection Diesel (DI-D) for diesel.
Fuel Pump Type:
Electric in-tank fuel pump
Cooling System
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled
Emission Controls
Emission Standards:
Euro III / EPA (market dependent)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type Gasoline Base:
5-speed Manual Transmission (W5A580)
Transmission Type Diesel Base:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (INVECS-II)
Optional
Transmission Type Gasoline Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (INVECS-II)
Features
4Wd System:
Super Select II Four-Wheel Drive System with center differential lock and electronic control.
Fluid Specs
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
DIA QUEEN ATF-SP II M or equivalent (check manual for exact specification)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 (check manual for exact specification)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior 5Door
Length:
4780 mm (approx.)
Width:
1875 mm (approx.)
Height:
1855 mm (approx.)
Wheelbase:
2780 mm (approx.)
Exterior 3Door
Length:
4305 mm (approx.)
Wheelbase:
2500 mm (approx.)
Interior
Seating Capacity:
5 or 7 (optional third row)
Cargo
Cargo Volume:
Variable depending on seating configuration, significant capacity in 5-door models.
Weights
Curb Weight:
1800-2100 kg (approx., varies by engine and configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
2500-2800 kg (approx.)
Towing
Towing Capacity:
Up to 2500 kg (braked, market dependent)
Ground Clearance
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 215 mm (unladen, varies by suspension setup)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Ancap Rating:
Not extensively rated by ANCAP for this specific generation, but generally considered robust.
NHTSA Rating:
Ratings vary by model year and testing standards; typically mid-range for its era.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard on most models, Anti-lock Braking System.
Traction Control:
Optional on some models (TCL).
Stability Control:
Rarely standard on this generation.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard; side airbags optional on higher trims.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Body Structure:
Reinforced body structure for improved crashworthiness.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM radio with CD player, often with cassette tape. Upgraded Rockford Fosgate systems available on higher trims.
Navigation:
Optional GPS navigation system available on some higher-spec models, typically basic in-dash units.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Parking Sensors:
Not commonly equipped on this generation, typically an aftermarket addition.
Connectivity
Usb Aux Input:
Not available from factory; aftermarket solutions required.
Climate Control
Climate Control Type:
Manual or automatic climate control depending on trim level.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals Gasoline
Engine Oil And Filter Change:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Coolant Change:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Spark Plugs Replacement:
100,000 miles (Iridium type, if equipped); consult manual for exact intervals.
Service Intervals Diesel
Engine Oil And Filter Change:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (due to diesel engine requirements).
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 48 months (for 6G72 V6; diesel may have chain or belt depending on variant - consult manual).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type Gasoline:
API SJ or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for exact viscosity based on temperature).
Engine Oil Type Diesel:
API CF-4 or CI-4, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual).
Coolant:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (MS-9762) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron IIE or equivalent (check manual).
Known Issues
Radiator Leaks:
Prone to radiator leaks over time, especially after high mileage or in hot climates.
Differential Noise:
Rear differential bearing wear can cause noise or vibration, particularly on higher mileage vehicles.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Cracked exhaust manifolds are a known issue on V6 gasoline engines.
Transmission Shifting:
Automatic transmission shifting issues can arise from worn solenoids or low fluid levels.
ABS Sensor Failure:
ABS wheel speed sensor failure can trigger ABS warning lights.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mitsubishi Off Road Legacy:
Mitsubishi has a long and successful history in off-road motorsport, notably the Dakar Rally, with the Pajero nameplate being synonymous with this heritage.
Model Evolution
Third Generation Introduction:
The third generation Pajero debuted in late 1999 (for the 2000 model year), marking a significant departure with its monocoque (unibody) chassis with a built-in ladder frame, offering improved on-road manners while retaining off-road prowess.
Design Changes:
Distinctive styling with integrated body and chassis, independent front suspension (replacing torsion bars), and a more car-like interior.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary production in Japan (Okazaki Plant); also produced in other global facilities under license or through joint ventures.
Production Years For Generation:
1999/2000 - 2006
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Dakar Rally Success:
While the third generation continued the Pajero's legacy, its most significant motorsport accolades were achieved by earlier generations in events like the Dakar Rally, cementing its off-road reputation.
Consumer Reviews:
Generally well-received for its off-road capabilities and durability, though some noted average on-road comfort and fuel economy compared to unibody competitors.