The Mitsubishi Pajero Mini was a compact SUV produced by the Japanese automaker Mitsubishi Motors. It was introduced in 1994 and was sold primarily in the Japanese domestic market (JDM). The Pajero Mini was designed to be a smaller and more fuel-efficient version of Mitsubishi’s larger Pajero SUV.
Here are some key characteristics and features of the Mitsubishi Pajero Mini:
Compact Size: As the name suggests, the Pajero Mini was significantly smaller than the regular Mitsubishi Pajero. Its compact dimensions made it suitable for city driving and navigating narrow roads.
Engine Options: The Pajero Mini was typically powered by small-displacement engines, often in the range of 0.66 to 0.7 liters, which made it fuel-efficient. These engines were often paired with either a 3-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual transmission.
4WD Capability: Despite its small size, many versions of the Pajero Mini were equipped with four-wheel drive (4WD) systems, allowing it to handle light off-road terrain. This made it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Unique Styling: The Pajero Mini had a distinctive and boxy design, reminiscent of its larger Pajero siblings. It retained some of the traditional SUV styling cues, such as a rear-mounted spare tire and a rugged appearance.
Popularity in Japan: The Pajero Mini gained popularity in Japan due to its compact size, practicality, and off-road capabilities. It was often seen as a fashionable urban SUV.
Limited Availability: While the Pajero Mini was primarily sold in Japan, some used or imported units might be found in other countries, especially where there is a market for JDM vehicles.
Discontinuation: Mitsubishi eventually discontinued the Pajero Mini in the mid-2000s as consumer preferences shifted towards larger SUVs and crossovers. The discontinuation was also influenced by stricter emissions and safety regulations.
