Mitsubishi Pajero Review

2015-2021

The Mitsubishi Pajero (V90 series) is a legendary full-size 7-seater Japanese 4x4 off-roader in Kenya. Powered by the high-torque 3.2L 4M41 Common Rail DI-D Turbo Diesel (190 hp / 441 Nm), Super Select II 4WD system with rear differential lock, and independent suspension, it delivers extreme off-road endurance for safari operators, farm owners, and long-distance travel.

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mandai score 7/10

*This score is awarded by our team of expert reviewers after extensive testing of the car

What’s good

  • Legendary Super Select II 4WD: Allows shifting between 2WD and 4WD at speeds up to 100 km/h with center differential lock.
  • High 225 mm ground clearance: Effortlessly traverses deep ruts, mud pools, and rough upcountry terrain.
  • Rugged monocoque chassis with built-in ladder frame: Combines extreme off-road rigidity with refined tarmac handling.

What’s not so good

  • Higher KRA excise tax (>2,500 cc): 3.2L diesel displacement triggers KRA 35% excise duty rate.
  • Firm rear suspension on rough washboard roads: Independent rear suspension requires proper bushing maintenance.

5 doorsPetrol, DieselAutomatic

At a glance

Model
Mitsubishi Pajero Long (V98W Series)
Production years
2015–2021
Body type
5-Door 7-Seater Full-Size 4x4 SUV
Seating capacity
7
Fuel types
Clean Diesel (DI-D), Petrol (MIVEC V6)
Engine sizes
3,200 cc / 2,998 cc / 3,828 cc
Transmission
INVECS-II 5-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain
Super Select II 4WD (4H / 4HLc / 4LLc)
Ground clearance
225 mm
Source market
Japan (RHD)

Fuel consumption

10.5 km/L9.5 L/100km combined
Combined10.5 km/L
City8.5 km/L
Highway12.5 km/L

Manufacturer / import-market figures: 10.5 km/L. Tank: 88 L (about 924 km combined). Real-world use varies with load, traffic and altitude.

Running cost

KES 2,162 per 100 kmKES 22 per km
City driving
KES 2,670 / 100 km
Highway driving
KES 1,816 / 100 km
1,000 km a month
KES 21,615
Full tank (88 L)
KES 19,972

Based on petrol at KES 226.96/L, 15-10-2026 to 14-11-2026. Combined economy unless stated.

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Trims & variants

GR / Exceed / Super Exceed / Final Edition

Setup

3,200 cc 4-cylinder intercooled turbo diesel producing 190 hp and 441 Nm torque, INVECS-II 5-speed automatic, Super Select II 4WD, returning 10.5 km/L combined.

Why it gets shipped

The premier diesel heavy 4x4 choice in Kenya, favored by safari companies, mining contractors, and upcountry farmers.

Local consideration

High-torque towing capacity easily hauls heavy boat or livestock trailers.

Package tiers

Pajero package tiers progress from rugged utility grades to opulent Super Exceed editions.

PackageLevelKey features
GRUtility 4x417-inch alloy wheels, fabric 7 seats, Super Select II 4WD, dual climate control, and side steps.
ExceedExecutive 4x418-inch alloys, leather seats, power front seats, Rockford Acoustic 12-speaker audio, and xenon headlights.
Super Exceed / Final EditionFlagship luxury18-inch chrome alloys, premium Nappa leather, power sunroof, rear entertainment screen, and Final Edition door sills.

About the Mitsubishi Pajero

Kenya enforces an 8-year age limit from manufacture month and right-hand drive regulations. In 2026, 2018 to 2021 final-edition Pajero models sit inside the direct import window, while earlier models are widely traded in local showroom markets.

Because the Pajero 3.2L DI-D engine displacement (3,200 cc) exceeds 2,500 cc, it triggers KRA's 35% excise duty tax bracket. However, its long statutory age depreciation (up to 70%) keeps total landed costs competitive against Prado imports.

Buying tips for Kenyan importers

  1. Test Super Select II 4WD transfer modes

    Ensure 2H, 4H, 4HLc, and 4LLc engage cleanly without flashing orange dash lights.

  2. Inspect diesel injector values

    Confirm smooth idling and clean exhaust emissions under hard acceleration.

Disclaimer

Tax figures are estimates based on October 2026 KRA schedules. Always verify specific chassis CRSP entries with your clearing agent prior to purchase.

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