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 DaimlerChrylser
South Africa's Mitsubishi division has introduced a new five-door iO model
in the Pajero line-up which boasts a larger, 2.0-litre engine and
specification enhancements.
The new engine is Mitsubishi's 2,0-litre ECI-MULTI 16-valve SOHC petrol
engine that delivers 95 kW at 5 500 r/min and maximum torque figure of 177
Nm at 4 500 r/min. It uses computer-controlled fuel injectors on each
intake port for exceptional fuel efficiency and crisp, powerful
acceleration. According to a DCSA release, other engineering advances
include four valves per cylinder for improved throttle response with
increased breathing efficiency, and a centre-plug pentroof combustion
chamber design for enhanced combustion and power.
Inside, convenience items in the luggage compartment include a handy side
compartment and recessed hooks to secure baggage, an accessory power
socket for appliances when camping, and an under-floor compartment with
dividers to secure valuables or emergency items. Folding both rear seats
flat makes room for large amounts of cargo. Other features include a
tilt-steering wheel, the obligatory dual cup holders located between the
front seats, and a swing-out glove box that can accommodate a large volume
of items.
Active safety systems include four-sensor, three-channel ABS and EBD to
ensure that braking force is evenly distributed to all four wheels,
regardless of the passenger/cargo load.
 Comfort in the ride
department is aided by a McPherson strut front suspension design that
ensures minimal camber and track changes for maximum high-speed control.
According to DCSA, the rear five-link coil spring setup provides excellent
handling, body control and road grip both on-road and off to increase ride
comfort.
An advanced SS4-i system (a redesigned four-wheel drive system based on
the Pajero's Super Select 4WD), has the intelligence to handle any driving
condition - on road and off - as well as the capacity to effortlessly
shift on the fly between 2WD and 4WD at speeds up to 100 km/h. This system
delivers torque on demand in 4H mode via a viscous coupling unit (VCU),
ensuring stable handling in even slippery or varying conditions on paved
surfaces. One lever does it all, while a helical-geared rear limited-slip
differential fine-tunes torque transfer.
2WD high range provides smooth, economical 2WD for normal city driving.
On-demand 4WD high range provides stability in wet driving conditions.
Power is normally transferred to the rear wheels, but if the speed
differential becomes too great, the VCU enables a front/rear torque
distribution ratio of up to 50/50.
Locked 4WD high range improves traction and maneuverability on rough
roads, and on low-grip surfaces such as sand, mud and snow. Locked 4WD low
range provides approximately 50% more torque for maximum traction in
extreme terrain and conditions.
Ground clearance is 195 mm, while generous angles of approach (33
degrees), ramp break-over (22 degrees) and departure (45 degrees) allow
maneuvering in and out of rough areas.
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