Is the 2018 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport Still the Best SUV in the Philippines?

As someone who has spent over a decade reviewing automobiles in the Southeast Asian market, I’ve always had a soft spot for the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport. When the 2018 model was launched here in the Philippines, it immediately caught my attention—and for good reason. But now, several years later, with newer competitors flooding the market, I find myself asking: does it still hold the crown as the best SUV for Filipino families and adventurers? Let’s dive in, but first, allow me to draw a quick parallel from an unexpected arena—basketball. Just the other day, I came across a quote from TNT coach Chot Reyes, who reminded his team not to fall into the trap of playing complacently against an opponent already out of playoff contention. That statement hit home for me because, in many ways, the automotive industry mirrors this mindset. A legacy nameplate like the Pajero Sport can’t afford to rest on its laurels, no matter how impressive its track record. And believe me, this SUV has quite the resume.

Now, looking back at the 2018 Pajero Sport, it’s easy to see why it made waves. Under the hood, you’ve got a 2.4-liter MIVEC diesel engine that churns out around 178 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque—numbers that, frankly, still hold up well today. I’ve taken this beast on long drives from Manila to Baguio, and the power delivery feels smooth yet assertive, especially when tackling steep inclines or overtaking on highways. Fuel efficiency? In my experience, it averages about 12-14 km/l in mixed conditions, which isn’t groundbreaking but is decent for its class. Where it truly shines, though, is off-road. With its Super Select 4WD-II system and roughly 218 mm of ground clearance, it handles rough terrain like a champ. I recall one trip to the rocky trails of Rizal where lighter SUVs struggled, but the Pajero Sport glided through with minimal fuss. It’s built tough, and that durability resonates with Filipino drivers who face everything from city potholes to provincial floods.

But here’s where my perspective might ruffle some feathers: as much as I admire the Pajero Sport, I think it’s starting to show its age in certain areas. Take the interior, for example. While the 2018 model offers a functional and spacious cabin with seating for seven, the infotainment system feels dated compared to what you’d find in, say, a 2022 Ford Everest or Toyota Fortuner. The touchscreen is smaller—around 7 inches if I recall correctly—and lacks the crisp responsiveness of newer models. Safety-wise, it includes essentials like seven airbags and stability control, but advanced driver-assist features are minimal. In today’s market, where buyers increasingly expect tech like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist, the Pajero Sport risks falling behind. And that brings me back to Coach Reyes’ warning about complacency. Mitsubishi has a loyal following here, with over 8,000 units of the Pajero Sport sold in the Philippines in 2018 alone, but relying solely on reputation is a dangerous game.

On the flip side, what keeps the Pajero Sport in the conversation is its sheer reliability and value retention. I’ve spoken with owners who’ve clocked over 100,000 kilometers with barely a hiccup, and resale values remain strong—often depreciating by only 15-20% after three years. For practical-minded Filipinos, that’s a huge plus. Plus, its rugged design and commanding presence on the road still turn heads. In my opinion, if you prioritize longevity and off-road capability over flashy tech, the 2018 model is a solid bet. But is it the best? Well, it depends on your priorities. For me, while I’d lean toward recommending it for tough, no-nonsense use, I can’t ignore the allure of newer rivals with smarter features. So, to wrap things up, the 2018 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport remains a formidable player in the Philippine SUV scene—a trusted workhorse that, much like a seasoned athlete, shouldn’t be underestimated. But unless Mitsubishi steps up its game with timely updates, it might soon cede its throne to more innovative contenders.