Pajero Sport Shogun: Mitsubishi gives Pajero Sport a tougher edge

Pajero Sport Shogun: Mitsubishi gives Pajero Sport a tougher edge

Mitsubishi South Africa is expanding its Pajero Sport range with the addition of the Shogun limited edition variant, which is based on the Aspire 4×4 model.

Besides the Pajero being known as the Shogun in other regions, interestingly, the nameplate is reserved exclusively for the brand’s limited edition models within the South African borders, as seen on the Triton limited edition, which went on sale in SA earlier this year.

The Pajero Sport may not be a popular option in the bakkie-based SUV fold because it is starting to show its age, but it remains a hugely capable 7-seater bruiser competing with models such as the Ford Everest, Toyota Fortuner, and Isuzu mu-X. The Shogun variant aims to contribute significantly to maintaining the relevance of the Pajero Sport brand within the segment.

So, what does the Shogun bring? Not so much, if we’re honest. You get what Mitsu calls a Dynamic Shield front grille, a black bonnet decal and badging, 18-inch wheels wrapped in special all-terrain tyres with white writing, a black Shogun nudge bar, a snorkel, side window deflectors, fender flares, and Shogun rock sliders.

The interior design appears to be reminiscent of the Aspire variant, yet it remains largely unchanged. Notably, it features black leather seats, an electrically adjustable driver’s seat, dual-zone climate control, and an 8-inch touchscreen. However, it’s worth noting that the touchscreen system feels somewhat dated, consistent with our observations across other Mitsubishi products.

Underneath, the 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine continues unchanged with 133kW and 430Nm. It’s paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and the brand’s Super Select 4WD system.

Like the Aspire, the Shogun also comes with seven airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchors, active stability and traction control, ABS brakes, EBD, and an emergency brake assist system.

At a price of R914,990, the Pajero Sport Shogun limited edition doesn’t fall into the budget-friendly category, and the additional equipment doesn’t seem to justify the additional R40,000 premium. On the other hand, individuals who prefer to venture off the beaten path will find the extra gear helpful.