Mitsubishi Motors’ long-awaited successor to its versatile Challenger 4×4 SUV has made its international debut at the 2015 Bangkok International Grand Motor Sale in Thailand today. Presented for the first time in production form, Mitsubishi’s third-generation Challenger offers rugged luxury, sophisticated technology and genuine four-wheel drive performance.
Named Pajero Sport in markets like Thailand, the new model features Mitsubishi Motors’ new Dynamic Shield front face design concept, a further evolution of the design nurtured in successive models of the Pajero series.
The high-quality stylish design uses both sporty and dynamic elements that clearly distinguish it from other off-road SUVs.
Inside, a high console proportion dashboard with dynamically styled silver-finish ornamentation and plush sculpted seats add to its luxurious feel.
Powered by a 2.4-litre MIVEC turbo diesel engine mated to a new 8-speed automatic transmission, the new SUV achieves improved environmental performance while delivering great practical utility and punchy engine performance.
Handling, stability, ride and quietness have all been improved through optimisation of the suspension and improvements to the body mounts. The use of upgraded sound insulation and a new diesel engine provide a significant reduction in interior noise.
The 2016 Challenger introduces a range of advanced and comprehensive safety technology that will feature on a Mitsubishi model for the first time.
New active safety features include Blind Sport Warning (BSW) and Ultrasonic misacceleration Mitigation System (UMS) which, while stationary or at speeds of up to 10 km/h, uses ultrasonic sensors to detect vehicle obstructions and regulates engine power if the drive depresses the accelerator hard by mistake.
Additional safety firsts include a Multi-around Monitor which displays a bird’s eye image of the vehicle’s perimeter and the new model gains an electronic parking brake.
Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) braking will also feature on the new Challenger, rounding out a list of advanced safety features not typically found in this class.
MMC’s own RISE impact safety body design and a total of seven SRS airbags provide occupants with outstanding passive safety.
The Challenger uses a further-evolved version of MMC’s own Super Select II four-wheel drive system. This is complemented by the new Off-road Mode terrain selection system, a first on a Mitsubishi, which gives better all-terrain performance and stability as the road surface requires.
The addition of Hill Descent Control, another first for Mitsubishi, and greater wading depth also enhance the Challengers off-road capabilities.
Mitsubishi Motors Australia Executive Director of Marketing Tony Principe said the new-generation Challenger demonstrates the brand’s renewed emphasis on style, refinement and cutting edge technology.
“Mitsubishi Motors’ Challenger successor is another example of our product direction and reflects the new appeal, design excellence, quality and refinement we are building into our vehicles.
“The 2016 Challenger represents a new-generation of SUV with luxury, high-tech safety features and superior comfort while still delivering class leading 4WD capabilities and great on-road performance.”
The new SUV will go on sale in Thailand this Spring and will be launched progressively in 90 countries across ASEAN, the Middle East, Africa, Latin America and Russia in the coming months.
Mitsubishi Motors Australia will announce details of the new Australian specification Challenger closer to its local launch.
