I remember the first time I drove a 2018 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport through Manila's chaotic streets - that commanding view from the driver's seat made me feel like I could conquer anything the city threw at me. Now, five years later, I'm seeing more people asking the crucial question: Is the 2018 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport still worth buying in the Philippines today? Having owned one for years and watched the used car market evolve, I've got some strong opinions about this.
The Philippine automotive landscape has changed dramatically since 2018. Back then, the Pajero Sport stood as one of the top choices in its class, competing fiercely with the Fortuner and Montero Sport. What made it special was that rugged 2.4-liter diesel engine pumping out 178 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque - numbers that still hold up remarkably well today. I've taken mine through flooded streets during monsoon season, up mountain roads in Baguio, and on countless family trips to Batangas beaches. The reliability has been nothing short of impressive, though I won't pretend the fuel economy is class-leading - you're looking at around 10-12 km/L in mixed driving conditions.
Here's where things get interesting. Just last week, I was reading about TNT coach Chot Reyes reminding his team not to fall into the trap of playing complacently against teams already out of playoff contention. That mentality perfectly mirrors what used car buyers need to avoid when considering older models like the 2018 Pajero Sport. It's easy to get complacent and think any SUV will do, but you've really got to consider whether the features and condition justify the price. The market's flooded with options now, and while the Pajero Sport maintains its rugged charm, you're looking at prices ranging from ₱1.1 to ₱1.4 million for a decent 2018 model with reasonable mileage.
What really stands out to me about the 2018 model is how well it's aged. The infotainment system might feel dated compared to newer units, but the safety features - seven airbags, stability control, and that fantastic Super Select 4WD-II system - still provide peace of mind that's hard to match. I've driven newer competitors, and honestly, nothing quite replicates the Pajero Sport's unique combination of comfortable highway manners and genuine off-road capability. The interior materials have held up better than I expected too, though the third-row seating remains best suited for kids or occasional use.
Looking at the current market, I'd argue the 2018 Pajero Sport represents one of the smarter used SUV purchases if you prioritize durability over flashy tech. Maintenance costs have been reasonable in my experience - around ₱8,000-₱12,000 for regular servicing at official dealers. The parts availability is excellent nationwide, which matters more than people realize when you're outside Metro Manila. That being said, I always tell friends to budget an extra ₱50,000-₱80,000 for potential wear-and-tear items, especially if the vehicle has over 60,000 kilometers.
Ultimately, whether the 2018 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport remains worth buying comes down to your priorities. If you want the latest connectivity features and cutting-edge driver assists, look elsewhere. But if you value proven reliability, genuine off-road capability, and that unmistakable presence that turns heads even today, this might just be one of the best value propositions in the Philippine used car market. Five years into ownership, mine still puts a smile on my face every time I tackle rough roads that would make other SUV owners think twice - and that's worth more than any fancy touchscreen to me.