Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover
Target Audience:
Individuals seeking a capable, yet compact and fuel-efficient off-road oriented vehicle.
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Suzuki Vitara, Daihatsu Terios, Ford EcoSport (depending on region)
Off Road Capability:
Available with Mitsubishi's Super Select II 4WD system (depending on market/trim), offering genuine off-road prowess for its class.
Compact Size:
Easier maneuverability and parking in urban environments, appealing to city dwellers.
Practicality:
Versatile interior, suitable for small families or individuals requiring cargo space.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management (ECU), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system
Transmission:
Manual transmission (5-speed), Automatic transmission (4-speed INVECS-II), transfer case, drivetrain components (axles, driveshafts, differentials)
Chassis:
Suspension (front MacPherson strut, rear Multi-link Beam), steering system, braking system (front vented discs, rear drums/discs), wheels and tires
Electrical:
12V electrical system, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), instruments and gauges, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), audio system, immobilizer system
Body And Interior:
Body construction, exterior panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, seats, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), lubrication, belt replacement, spark plug replacement, brake pad/shoe replacement, tire rotation
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for engine performance issues, starting problems, electrical faults, transmission issues, brake problems
Repair:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, brake caliper/master cylinder replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair/replacement, body panel repair
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) system explanation, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing procedures, wiring diagrams for electrical systems
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting.
Engine Code And Type:
4G93 (1.8L SOHC/DOHC Inline-4) and 4G94 (2.0L DOHC Inline-4)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 110-135 HP (varies by engine variant and market)
Torque Range:
Approximately 160-175 Nm (varies by engine variant and market)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Bore X Stroke:
Varies by engine (e.g., 4G93: 81.0 mm x 89.0 mm; 4G94: 86.0 mm x 86.0 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Varies by engine (e.g., 4G93: 9.5:1, 4G94: 9.7:1)
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission (5MT)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission with INVECS-II (4AT)
Drivetrain Options:
2WD (Rear-Wheel Drive) or 4WD (Full-Time or Part-Time, often with Super Select II system)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
DIA QUEEN ATF-J2 or equivalent
Length:
Approx. 3,745 mm - 3,850 mm (varies slightly by model year/variant)
Height:
Approx. 1,645 mm - 1,705 mm (varies by roof rail/suspension)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,280 mm
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,200 kg - 1,350 kg (depending on drivetrain and options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 1,700 kg - 1,800 kg
Crash Test Results:
Varies by region and testing agency (e.g., Euro NCAP, JNCAP). Specific ratings for this model may be limited.
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on higher trims or as an option.
Traction Control:
Active Stability Control (ASC) or Traction Control (TCL) may be available on specific models/markets.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard on most models; side airbags may be optional.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Body Structure:
Reinforced impact-absorbing body structure.
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM stereo with CD player, and sometimes cassette player. Speaker configurations vary by trim.
Navigation:
Factory navigation systems were rare on this model and typically aftermarket additions.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels, often integrated with the throttle body.
Auxiliary Inputs:
Unlikely to have standard AUX or USB inputs; aftermarket solutions are common.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 15,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (refer to specific market recommendations).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) for iridium or platinum plugs, depending on type.
Engine Oil Capacity And Type:
Approximately 4.0 - 4.5 liters of API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-5/GF-6, SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30 (check manual for precise specification).
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent (Ethylene Glycol-based, Pink color)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual)
Engine Performance Minor:
Occasional minor oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan seal. Carbon buildup in engines with frequent short trips.
Transmission Issues:
Some reports of automatic transmission shifting issues or solenoid failures, particularly with higher mileage. Clutch wear in manual transmissions.
Suspension Wear:
Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings due to its off-road capability and age.
Electrical Minor:
Power window motor failures, issues with dashboard warning lights, or minor sensor faults.
Mitsubishi Offroad:
Mitsubishi has a strong heritage in off-road vehicles, dating back to the original Pajero (Montero in some markets) introduced in 1982, known for its durability and rally success (e.g., Paris-Dakar).
Pajero Io Concept:
The Pajero iO (also known as Pajero Pinin in Europe, and Mitsubishi Pajero TR4 in Brazil) was developed as a smaller, more affordable, and city-friendly alternative to the larger Pajero models, while retaining some off-road capability.
Production Period:
First generation: 1998-2007. This manual covers the early facelifted models of the first generation.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan, with significant production also in Brazil for the South American market.