Stock #6968
Exterior Overview
When society advanced into the 21st century, so did the quality of the Mitsubishi Pajero. This super SUV was now capable of hanging with the big boys at Toyota, thanks to a completely revised and more nimble unibody chassis, potent 3.2L turbodiesel, and the same Super Select 4WD system that gave the brand its flowers early on. We’re big fans of the platform here at the dealership, and praise its fuel efficiency, power output, and ease of service. This 2000 Exceed is a great example of the chassis, and is finished in Summit White (W09) over Gray. Adorned by OEM optional mudflaps, an Aiba Works front brushguard, dual driving lamps, and OEM rainguards, the cosmetics are in good shape, save for a few minor scratches and dings. Rolling on WEDS Keeler alloys, this 3rd generation Pajero has enough flair to stand out at your local Cars & Coffee too. Also appealing are the 139k miles on the clock, which are verified and documented, too. Reworked with direct injection and a slew of useful power amenities, this would make a terrific trail toy, a dedicated daily driver, or a fun weekend runabout. Meeting all the criteria, it’s easy to see why the 78 series Pajero is a true Japanese Classic!
Interior Overview
The interior is comfortable and far more spacious than the previous Pajero generation we still retail. Access is made more seamless thanks to functional keyless entry. The cockpit also received a complete styling overhaul, including a redesigned third row, and a centrally mounted command center for your audio and HVAC. Easy to operate, it doles out cold A/C and hot heat upon request, and the audio controls are intuitive, although currently the audio only works with AM frequencies. Fortunately, an aftermarket unit is a simple upgrade if you get tired of talk radio. Safety is prioritized, with dual SRS airbags up front and plenty of crash support in the chassis, too. The driver also benefits from a tilt-adjustable steering column, which holds an optional woodgrain steering wheel, to give the cabin an air of sophistication. Daily use is easy, thanks to a full slate of power windows, door locks, and mirrors, which electronically fold if you need to squeeze in a tighter parking spot. A highlight of this Pajero’s cabin, the third row seating uses a stow and go design, which allows you to easily drop the bench below deck if you need to maximize cargo space. This also allows you to recline the middle seats nearly 90 degrees, if you need to hop in the back and catch a quick snooze. The headliner is tight and tidy, and the carpets are in good shape. This cabin doesn’t look a day over 25, and the tan cloth seats have resisted every day use and abuse as well. To protect your investment, we even held on to a full slate of owner’s manuals and maintenance booklets, documenting the history of this lovely Pajero!
Mechanical Overview
To go along with the new chassis, Mitsubishi added this wonderful 4M41 turbodiesel to the mix. It makes decent power, is frugal on fuel, and is fresh off an oil and filter service. A new 12v battery aids quick ignition, and we replaced the fuel filter and engine air filter as soon as it got up on the lift. A new thermostat was chucked in, so that the Mistubsihi gets up to, and stays at, the correct operating temperature. A new muffler was also installed, as well, and the 3.2L sounds nice with that trademark diesel rumble! We installed new accessory belts to keep your electronics reliably powered, and one of our trained techs replaced the valve cover gasket with a new one, so that the oil level would stay full. The four-banger is linked to a stout automatic gearbox that shifts like a champ. A fluid service was performed on it so that things stay that way. The 4WD system can be engaged on the fly, and a low range and center locker can be utilized on your off-road excursions. It gets up to highway merging speeds with ease and slows down promptly courtesy of new rear brake pads and standard ABS. The ride quality is above average, and we have given the suspension a healthy refresh. Four new shocks, new front lower control arms, and inner and outer tie rods were installed. We also replaced the front and rear sway bar links for good measure. This Exceed handles large and small potholes alike with confidence, and the power steering is light and easy to articulate. We improved the system with new steering rack bushings for state inspection. Grip is handled by four new Falken all-terrain tires that we mounted and balanced at each corner. Freshly aligned, this truck tracks straight as an arrow, and the new rubber will last 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.
