Mitsubishi Pajero Sport 2018 Philippines: Top Features and Buying Guide

Having spent over a decade testing SUVs across Southeast Asia's challenging terrain, I've developed a particular appreciation for vehicles that balance rugged capability with everyday comfort. The 2018 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport available in the Philippines represents exactly that sweet spot, and having driven this model extensively across Luzon's mountain roads and Visayas' coastal routes, I can confidently say it remains one of the most compelling choices in its class. What struck me immediately was how Mitsubishi managed to retain the Pajero's legendary off-road DNA while injecting sophisticated comfort features typically found in more expensive European SUVs.

The heart of this vehicle is undoubtedly its 2.4-liter MIVEC diesel engine producing 181 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque - numbers that might not sound extraordinary on paper but translate to remarkably confident performance when you're navigating Baguio's steep inclines or overtaking on provincial highways. I remember specifically testing the 8-speed automatic transmission during a particularly grueling drive through the Zigzag Road in Benguet, and the seamless shifting even under load genuinely impressed me. The Super Select II 4WD system deserves special mention too - it's one of those features you might not appreciate until you find yourself in a situation where you absolutely need it, like when unexpected monsoon rains turn dirt roads into mud pits. Having driven both the 4x2 and 4x4 variants, my personal recommendation would definitely lean toward the 4x4 model even if you're primarily driving in Metro Manila, simply because that extra capability provides peace of mind when exploring the Philippines' more adventurous destinations.

This brings me to an interesting parallel with Coach Chot Reyes' recent comments about his team avoiding complacency against opponents already out of playoff contention. I've noticed a similar tendency among SUV buyers here in the Philippines - many become complacent about features like advanced 4WD systems, assuming they won't need them for daily driving. But much like in basketball where underestimating any opponent can lead to unexpected losses, underestimating road conditions can lead to precarious situations. The Pajero Sport's 218mm ground clearance and 30-degree approach angle have rescued me multiple times from what could have been disastrous scenarios during sudden flash floods or unexpected road repairs.

Inside the cabin, the 2018 model marked a significant leap forward in terms of refinement. The leather seats provide exceptional support during long drives - I've personally completed Manila to Ilocos Norte in one sitting without the usual back pain - while the 7-inch touchscreen interface, though not the largest in its class, responds intuitively to inputs. What many reviewers overlook is the clever storage solutions throughout the cabin, including the cooled console box that kept my drinks refreshingly cold during a scorching summer trip to Pangasinan. Safety features like the forward collision mitigation system have genuinely saved me from what could have been at least two accidents in EDSA's stop-and-go traffic, automatically applying brakes when motorcycles suddenly cut across lanes.

Pricing for the 2018 Pajero Sport in the Philippines ranges from approximately ₱1.5 million for the 4x2 GLX variant to around ₱2.3 million for the top-tier 4x4 GLS Premium, positioning it competitively against rivals like the Ford Everest and Toyota Fortuner. From my experience in the automotive industry, the Pajero Sport typically retains about 65-70% of its value after three years, which is significantly better than most competitors in its segment. The 5-year warranty that Mitsubishi offers provides additional peace of mind that many owners don't fully appreciate until they need it.

What ultimately sets the 2018 Pajero Sport apart in my view is its remarkable duality - it never feels out of place whether you're navigating Makati's business districts or forging through rough terrain to reach remote beaches. Having driven virtually every SUV available in the Philippine market, I consistently find myself recommending the Pajero Sport to friends and colleagues because it masters the fundamentals without unnecessary gimmicks. It's the vehicle I'd choose without hesitation for both my daily commute and my next adventure across the archipelago - a testament to its well-executed balance of capability, comfort, and reliability that continues to resonate with Filipino drivers years after its initial release.