I remember the first time I drove a Pajero Sport through Manila's chaotic streets back in 2017. The commanding driving position and rugged presence made me feel like I could conquer anything from EDSA traffic to mountain roads. Fast forward to today, and I'm still seeing these SUVs everywhere - but the question that's been on my mind lately is whether the 2018 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport remains a smart buy in our current Philippine automotive landscape.
The automotive market here has transformed dramatically since 2018. We've seen the rise of more sophisticated competitors like the Ford Everest and the ever-popular Toyota Fortuner, not to mention the growing electric vehicle conversation. Yet there's something about the Pajero Sport that keeps drawing Filipino buyers back. When I recently test-drove a 2018 model with about 60,000 kilometers on it, I was struck by how well it has aged. The 2.4-liter diesel engine still delivers that familiar 181 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque that made it so capable five years ago.
Here's what struck me during my week with the vehicle - it's built like a tank in the best possible way. While newer SUVs focus on fancy tech and sleek designs, the Pajero Sport maintains its no-nonsense approach that resonates deeply with our practical Filipino mentality. The suspension soaks up our notoriously uneven roads with ease, and the 4WD system provides genuine off-road capability that few urban-focused SUVs can match. I took it through some rough terrain in Rizal province and was reminded why this vehicle earned its reputation.
But let's be honest - the interior shows its age. The 8-inch touchscreen feels dated compared to modern units, and the safety features, while decent for 2018, lack the advanced driver assists we're seeing in newer models. Still, there's something to be said about simplicity and reliability. As someone who's dealt with complicated electronic systems failing in newer vehicles, I've come to appreciate the Pajero Sport's straightforward approach.
This reminds me of something I observed in Philippine sports recently. TNT coach Chot Reyes made a poignant comment about his team not falling into the trap of playing complacently against teams already out of playoff contention. There's a parallel here with the Pajero Sport - just because it's an older model doesn't mean we should dismiss its capabilities. The vehicle continues to perform strongly against newer competitors, much like how underdog teams can surprise favorites who become complacent.
From my conversations with local mechanics and long-term owners, the maintenance costs are surprisingly manageable. One owner I spoke with has put over 120,000 kilometers on his 2018 model with only routine maintenance, spending approximately ₱15,000-₱20,000 per year on average. The availability of parts across the Philippines is another huge advantage - you can find genuine parts even in provincial areas, which matters tremendously for those who travel outside Metro Manila regularly.
The pricing for used 2018 models typically ranges from ₱1.2 to ₱1.5 million depending on condition and mileage, which represents significant savings over the current generation while delivering about 85% of the capability. For families who need a reliable, capable vehicle that can handle everything from flood-prone city streets to provincial road trips, the value proposition remains compelling.
After spending considerable time with this vehicle and comparing it to newer alternatives, I've reached a conclusion that might surprise some. The 2018 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport isn't just a budget alternative - it's a smart choice for Filipino drivers who prioritize reliability and capability over flashy features. While it may not have all the latest tech, it delivers where it counts most in our unique driving conditions. The question "Is the 2018 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport still worth buying in the Philippines today?" deserves a resounding yes for the right buyer - someone who values substance over style and needs a vehicle that can truly handle everything our beautiful country throws at it.