For most South African buyers, the sweet spot in the Mitsubishi Pajero range is the fourth-generation 3.2 DI-D (roughly 2007–2015), which pairs the tough 4M41 turbo-diesel with the Super Select II 4WD system, ideally before the more temperamental DPF-equipped models arrived. That said, the “best” Pajero depends on your budget and how you’ll use it. Here’s how the generations stack up for used buyers.
The short answer
- Best all-rounder: Gen 4 3.2 DI-D (4M41), 2007–2015 — comfort, capability and the strongest parts support.
- Best value classic: Gen 3 3.2 DI-D, 2001–2006 — the same engine family for far less money.
- Best budget/enthusiast buy: Gen 2, 1991–1999 — simple, cheap to run, and the later “blister fender” is a collector favourite.
- Approach with caution: post-2011 DPF diesels used only in the city, and the thirsty 3.5 and 3.8 V6 petrols.
The engine that matters most: the 3.2 DI-D (4M41)
The 4M41 3.2-litre turbo-diesel is the heart of the used Pajero market, and it’s the reason the model has such a loyal following. On the Pajero Owners Club of South Africa forums, owners routinely report 300,000 km and beyond with basic care, and many go well past 400,000 km when injectors and the fuel pump are refreshed before they fail. It isn’t flawless: the top timing-chain guide can wear and, if ignored, break; the rear sideshafts can weep oil from the diff; and on Gen 4 the suction control valve (SCV), MAP sensor and EGR are the usual electronic niggles. All are known, affordable fixes if you avoid dealer labour.
Generation by generation, South African lens
| Generation | Years | Why buy it | Rough SA used price* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gen 2 | 1991–1999 | SS4 introduced; simple, cheap, collectible “blister fender” | R70k–R160k |
| Gen 3 | 2000–2006 | Monocoque + RISE body, refined ride, 3.2 DI-D from ~2001 | R120k–R260k |
| Gen 4 | 2006–2021 | Super Select II, 220 mm clearance, 700 mm wading, best comfort | R180k–R880k |
*Indicative only — AutoTrader SA listed roughly R70,000 to R880,000 across all Pajeros in mid-2026. Always check current listings on AutoTrader and Cars.co.za.
Years and models to be wary of
Diesels from about 2011 onward gained a diesel particulate filter (DPF). These are excellent on the open road but clog in stop-start city use, so a DPF Pajero that has only ever done school runs is a red flag. The 3.5 and 3.8 V6 petrols are smooth and cheap to buy but painful at the pump. And as with any 20-year-old 4×4, a neglected, undocumented example will cost you more than a well-kept one at a higher price.
What to check before you buy
- Full service history — gaps usually mean skipped diff, transfer-case and injector care.
- Scan for fault codes (DPF, EGR, transmission) with an OBD2 reader.
- Cycle every Super Select mode (2H, 4H, 4HLc, 4LLc) and confirm they engage cleanly.
- Inspect the undercarriage for rust (worse on the coast) and for transfer-case or diff leaks.
- Listen for injector rattle and watch for excessive smoke on a cold start.
If you’re weighing the full-size Pajero against the cheaper, Triton-based Pajero Sport, read our explainer on Super Select 4WD and our individual generation guides before deciding.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most reliable Mitsubishi Pajero engine?
The 3.2-litre 4M41 turbo-diesel is widely regarded as the most reliable, especially pre-2011 versions without a diesel particulate filter. With regular servicing it commonly reaches 300,000–400,000 km.
Which Pajero generation is best for serious off-road use?
The fourth generation (2006–2021) offers the best blend of capability and comfort, with Super Select II 4WD, 220 mm of ground clearance and a 700 mm wading depth. Enthusiasts on a budget also rate the simpler second generation.
Are the Pajero V6 petrol models worth buying?
They’re cheap to buy and smooth to drive, but the 3.0, 3.5 and 3.8-litre petrol V6s are thirsty. For long-term value in South Africa, the 3.2 DI-D diesel is the smarter choice.
What mileage is too high for a Pajero diesel?
High kilometres matter less than service history. A well-maintained 3.2 DI-D with 250,000–300,000 km can be a better buy than a neglected example with half that. Prioritise documented servicing over the odometer.
Is the Pajero Sport the same as the Pajero?
No. The Pajero Sport is a separate, smaller vehicle built on the Triton pickup’s ladder-frame chassis. The full-size Pajero uses a different, more refined monocoque body and is roomier.