I remember the first time I drove the 2018 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport through Manila's chaotic streets, feeling that familiar thrill of commanding a vehicle that refuses to be ordinary. Much like Coach Chot Reyes reminded his basketball team not to fall into complacency against seemingly weaker opponents, I've learned never to underestimate this SUV based on its conservative exterior. The moment you slide behind the wheel, you realize this isn't just another family hauler—it's a vehicle that demands respect and attention, much like how professional athletes must maintain focus regardless of their opponent's standing.
Under that sculpted hood lies a 2.4-liter MIVEC diesel engine generating 178 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque, numbers that still impress me years after its launch. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts with surprising smoothness, whether you're crawling through EDSA traffic or exploring mountain roads in Baguio. I've personally put about 15,000 kilometers on various Pajero Sport units, and what continues to astonish me is how Mitsubishi managed to balance rugged capability with everyday comfort. The suspension absorbs potholes that would make other SUVs wince, yet it remains composed through corners. It's that same principle Coach Reyes emphasized—never letting your guard down, whether you're facing a champion team or one that's already out of playoff contention.
The interior tells a compelling story of thoughtful design meeting practical needs. Leather seats that comfortably accommodate seven adults, a 7-inch touchscreen that responds quicker than most competitors, and those clever storage solutions that make you wonder why other manufacturers don't implement similar features. During a particularly memorable trip to Batangas with five colleagues, we discovered the cabin's excellent noise insulation makes conversations at highway speeds completely natural. The dual-zone climate control kept everyone comfortable despite varying preferences, while the 12-speaker Rockford Fosgate audio system delivered crystal clear sound that made our eight-hour drive feel significantly shorter.
Safety features deserve special mention because Mitsubishi didn't cut corners here. Seven airbags, hill start assist, active stability control, and that brilliant multi-around monitor system that gives you a bird's-eye view of your surroundings. I've tested similar systems in vehicles costing twice as much, and the Pajero Sport's implementation stands out for its reliability and clarity. The rear cross traffic alert has saved me from potential accidents at least three times in crowded mall parking lots—those moments make you appreciate the engineering behind what initially seems like just another checkbox feature.
Pricing positions the Pajero Sport interestingly within the Philippine market. The base GLX 4x2 MT starts at around ₱1.598 million, while the top-tier GLS 4x4 AT I'd recommend goes for approximately ₱2.250 million. Having driven competitors like the Fortuner and Everest extensively, I'd argue the Pajero Sport delivers better value, especially considering its superior off-road capabilities thanks to that sophisticated Super Select II 4WD system. It's the vehicle that grows on you over time, revealing its strengths through daily use rather than flashy marketing claims.
What ultimately wins me over is how the Pajero Sport manages to feel both special and practical simultaneously. It doesn't shout for attention like some of its rivals, yet it consistently delivers where it matters most. The fuel efficiency averages around 12 km/l in mixed driving based on my tracking, the maintenance costs remain reasonable, and that commanding driving position gives you confidence in any situation. It's the automotive equivalent of a professional athlete who performs consistently regardless of the circumstances—never complacent, always ready to exceed expectations. After years of testing various SUVs, the Pajero Sport remains my top recommendation for Filipino families seeking adventure without compromising daily usability.