1998 Mitsubishi Pajero iO 4WD

Stock #6479

Body on frame, and equipped with real super select 4WD, this compact crossover is a one of a kind hauler

Exterior Overview

It’s no secret the crossover SUV segment is hot right now, but few offerings offer the real deal off road capability of a full sized rig. Body on frame, and equipped with real super select 4WD, this 1998 is a neat little hauler, finished in a Balboa Blue (T88) over Seattle Silver (A71) two-tone. Set off by black bumpers, OEM rainguards, and a factory rear tire carrier, the body is in fine shape aside from a dent located by the left rear bumper and some scuffs, scrapes, dings, and chips that have accumulated from normal use. Fresh off a recent service, and turn key ready to roll off our lot, this 4WD equipped five-seater is offered with only 52k verified and documented miles on the clock. Safe, spacious, and civil on pavement, this crossover is a practical Japanese Classic that does everything well!

Interior Overview

The cabin has a modern feel and several power options and safety features. Despite being a compact SUV, it also feels quite spacious and akin to a CRV. The materials utilized are refreshing including the textured gray seats and upscale tweed dash trim. Dual SRS airbags are standard and the driver benefits from a clear view of the road ahead. The dashboard lacks any cracking or fading and the center stack includes a simple to use climate control system. A/C and heat can be easily mixed and directly above the climate control is an OEM audio system. It funnels tunes throughout the cabin and the factory audio delivers decent audio quality. The upholstery lacks any major, rips, stains, or tears and the headliner and door cards are in good nick. The rear seating row also folds flat and split folds depending on your cargo needs. The carpets have been protected with all-weather mats that are included with the Pajero’s purchase. Power windows, electric mirrors, and power locks all work and make daily use more enjoyable. Aside from a broken cupholder lid and the power folding function of the side mirrors giving up the ghost, the interior is impressive overall and was clearly cared for during its life in Japan.

Mechanical Overview

The platform is fun for an entry-level crossover and is powered by an efficient GDI four-banger, that shares a decent amount of parts with stateside offerings. The 4G93 is fresh off an oil and filter service and whirrs to life care of a new 12v battery. The little 1800cc mill benefits from a newly installed valve cover gasket so that it stays topped up on lubricant, and a new alternator that keeps everything properly charged. Power is fed through a responsive automatic gearbox that shifts properly. The SuperSelect 4WD system allows the driver the ability to choose between 2WD and 4WD on the fly. On loose surfaces, a low range and center locker can be deployed and are sought-after features rarely found in the small crossover segment. So that the driveline operates flawlessly one of our trained techs replaced the right front axle seal, the transmission shifter seal, and the pinion seals on the front and rear differential. Acceleration is enough to get onto the highway without fretting and the ABS brakes perform above average thanks to the feather-light curb weight. One of our trained techs refreshed the suspension with new left and right trailing arms, new front swaybar links, and the platform can handle the rigors of daily use. A new power steering belt was installed to assist the featherweight steering, and this compact cruiser is easy to putt through the confines of tighter backroad trails. New Nokian all-terrain tires are top tier, and were mounted and balanced at the shop to ensure you won’t fall short on grip for tens of thousands of miles to come!

*California Residents: In order to register a Grey Market vehicle in the state of California then it will have to be made CARB compliant first. CARB certifications will have to be performed within the state. Depending on the vehicle and any existing modifications will affect the pricing. Typically CARB compliance will range between 5-10K. Additional information can be found on the California Air Resources Board website.