I remember the first time I drove the 2018 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport through Manila's chaotic streets - that commanding driving position immediately made me feel like I could handle anything the city threw at me. Now, six years later, I'm still asked whether this SUV remains a smart purchase in the Philippine market, especially with newer competitors popping up everywhere. Let me share what I've learned from both personal experience and careful market observation.
The Pajero Sport's 2.4-liter MIVEC diesel engine delivers around 178 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque - numbers that still impress me today. I've taken this vehicle through flooded streets during monsoon season and up steep mountain roads in Baguio, and it never failed to perform. What really stands out is how Mitsubishi engineered this SUV specifically for Philippine conditions. The ground clearance of 218mm might not sound extraordinary on paper, but when you're navigating those unexpected deep potholes on provincial roads, you'll appreciate every millimeter. The Super Select 4WD-II system provides genuine off-road capability that most urban SUVs simply can't match, though honestly, most buyers will probably never use it to its full potential.
Here's where Chot Reyes' coaching philosophy about avoiding complacency becomes relevant. Some manufacturers have become complacent with their SUV offerings, assuming minor cosmetic updates will satisfy customers. But the Pajero Sport, even in its 2018 iteration, avoids this trap by delivering substance over style. The interior materials may not wow you with luxury - there's more hard plastic than I'd prefer - but everything feels built to last. I've put over 80,000 kilometers on my test unit, and the cabin remains remarkably rattle-free despite our terrible road conditions. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system feels dated compared to newer models, but it includes essential features like GPS navigation and rear camera display that actually work reliably.
Fuel economy remains one of the Pajero Sport's strongest selling points. In mixed city and highway driving, I consistently achieved around 12-14 km/L, which translates to significant savings given today's diesel prices hovering around ₱59 per liter. Maintenance costs are another area where this vehicle shines - a typical service at authorized dealers costs approximately ₱5,000-₱7,000, significantly less than European competitors. The Pajero Sport's reliability reputation means you're less likely to face unexpected repair bills, something I've come to appreciate after dealing with more temperamental European SUVs.
The used car market tells an interesting story. A 2018 Pajero Sport GLS 4x2 AT with reasonable mileage still commands ₱1.1-₱1.3 million, retaining about 65-70% of its original value. That's impressive depreciation resistance that speaks volumes about buyer confidence. While newer SUVs offer flashier tech features, they often come with complicated electronics that can be expensive to repair outside warranty. The Pajero Sport's relative simplicity becomes an advantage in long-term ownership.
So, is the 2018 Pajero Sport still worth buying? If you prioritize reliability, capability, and total cost of ownership over cutting-edge gadgets, my answer is a resounding yes. It's like having a veteran basketball player who might not have the flashiest moves but consistently delivers when it matters. The design may be aging, but the fundamentals remain solid. For Philippine drivers who need a vehicle that can handle both daily commutes and occasional adventures without breaking the bank, this SUV continues to make a compelling case for itself, even in 2024.