Mitsubishi Set To Release The Next Gen Challenger By 2016

After a long time speculating and fabricating, Mitsubishi has finally unveiled their next Gen SUV. Yes, the third-generation 7 seater Mitsubishi Challenger has been revealed at an event in Thailand. Recognized in Asian markets as the Pajero Sport, the new car, like the previous generations, is based on the Triton ute.

Although the new Challenger is yet to reveal its specs, we managed to get our hands on some details for now. Under the bonnet is a 2.4-litre MIVEC turbo diesel engine which is mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox that produces 133kW at 3500rpm and 430Nm at 2500rpm. The output of the engine hasn’t been disclosed but it will be close to 150bhp.

On the inside, the Pajero is equipped with leather seats, silver trim and a big center display for the information system above the glossy black instrument cluster.

Like the new Ford Ranger-based Everest wagon, Mitsubishi features multi-mode drive settings like maximum use grip for loose surfaces as well as a hill descent control setting, for a safe journey on steep inclines. Some other features include blind-spot monitoring, an ultrasonic acceleration mitigation system, camera-based around-view monitor and an electronic parking brake.

The car will be on sale by 2016 in Thailand. Shortly after that, the SUV will be sold in over 90 countries including countries in Asia, Australia, Middle East, Latin America and Africa. For the Indian market, we can expect the updated Pajero in mid 2016 and it will be facing the likes of the Chevrolet Trailblazer, Toyota Fortuner and the Ford Endeavour.