Best Source for Info?

[gotmud]

My wife is tired of driving her Corolla around and wants to get a mid size SUV. I've been a Toyota fan for years, so the obvious choice here would be a 4Runner. However, I drove a lot of Pajeros when I was stationed overseas and remember them being tough as nails. They certainly outlasted the Cherokees we had!

So I have to admit I'm pretty dumb when it comes to these, other than knowing they are well built. I'm sure it will not see much hard-core trail action (that's what my Land Cruiser is for) but I would like to build it to handle moderate trails and still be a daily driver for my wife.

OK, take it easy on me...where should I go to get schooled on Montero's?

BTW, I have four kids so any info related to a 3rd row would be extra helpful!

 

[ahmetclayton]

Hey gotmud,
There are a lot of different Montero's out there but The Gen3(2001-2006) will probably be the best choice for your needs. The Gen3 Montero comes in two trims. The Montero XLS and the Montero Limited. The XLS is the basic version which still comes pretty loaded from factory. The Limited has all the bells and whistles like wood trim and heated leather seats. Both trims which were built between 2001-2002 are equipped with 3.5L 200hp V6 engines. From 2003-2006 Mitsubishi switched from the 3.5L to a 3.8L 215hp V6 engine. Most overseas markets kept the 3.5L due to its known reliability. Both trims are equipped with a 3rd row seat that folds into the trunk. The 3rd row is perfect for kids but a tight space for most adults. I own a 2002 Montero Limited and it is the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. The Montero also comes with Low gearing and central locking differential. If you have decent tires you can run most trails with the stock vehicle. But if youre into more challenging stuff like most of us on this forum than a 2" Lift kit and Winch bumper are available. Hope this info helps. Let us know if you have any other questions. Cheers!!!

 

[Justice R]

OK, take it easy on me...where should I go to get schooled on Montero's?

www.4x4wire.com

 

[gotmud]

Is the "Sport" version anything to consider? What years of the full-size Montero came with the locking REAR differential? Also, some of the Pajeros we had overseas came with front suspension seats and an OEM PTO winch. Were those available here in the US?

I suspect Mitsubishi is much like Toyota and gave the non-US markets all the good stuff!

 

[Justice R]

reply

In the US the rear locker was available starting in 92 and ending in the 00 models(although still avail overseas). The rear locker is most common in the 94-97 SR models, and was also included in the 98-00 models with the "cold weather package".

The suspension seats are common in the 1st gen models (83-91) and were also in some gen 2 models but are very rare and hard to find. I've found these in 92/93 models in the yard, but it is a rare find.

PTO was never available in the states, but if you can somehow acquire the parts, the mount on the T-case is there.

The sport, is based off the Mighty max truck frame, less cargo room, but there is a lot in common with the Montero. I would go Montero, but that's just me.

 

[off-roader]

Everything Justice said...

I suspect Mitsubishi is much like Toyota and gave the non-US markets all the good stuff!

No doubt.

 

[78Bronco]

I have a Japan import Pajero and it has impressed me thus far for a 1993 model. I do not have the locking rear but should never need it because it will see mostly road driving.

It has a 2.8L turbo diesel with an automatic 4 spd trans which works great. The trans setup from the factory is spot on and is complimented by a driver mode switch. The ride is adjustable from in the cab with three settings. It has fold down 3rd row seats and plenty of room because it's a high roof model. The sport models are smaller on the inside compared and would be on par with a 4runner/Pathy. I had it fitted with 33x10's tires on LC wheels that didn't require any lift or trimming to clear. MPG's were affected a little bit but thankfully it has 4.88's in the pumpkins. Another great feature is the 4 mode t-case with 2wd, 4wd, 4hi lock and 4lo lock. The center diff allows you to run on high traction surfaces without the driveline binding and you can shift into 4wd up 100kmh.

I do not think you can import the Pajero into the states unless it is older than 25 years, in Canada we have a 15 year restriction.

Things I don't like but can't really complain are the small and poorly positioned cupholders. Also, no quick way to install and remove the 3rd row seats. The front suspensions is a little harsh at times.

Compared to the other SUVs I have owned it has surpassed expectations.