TECH TALK
By Ralph Longley
..4..
TOWING
The Pajero Sport frugal economy without the tow vehicle was quite amazing.
The L per/100k was taken from the vehicles readout. Understanding the vehicles
readout may not be 100% accurate, however most drivers will use the vehicles
economy read out as a basic fuel economy measure.
Pajero Sport – An excellent result.
Best overall recorded = 6.4 L/100k. Average = 6.8 L/100k.
Pajero – Best overall = 7.1L/100k. Average = 8 L/100k .
Note: A Torque Converter Lock was used during all Freeway Driving.
The Pajero Sports lighter body and more aerodynamic shape certainly assisted in fuel
saving. The Pajero however still can hold its head up high when considering the
additional weight it is carrying.
Now let’s hitch up the Lotus Caravan.
Section (1) 230k to Reeves Beach
Pajero Sport = 17.3 L/100k Pajero =17.6 L/100k
Section (2) 230k return to Bayswater North.
Pajero Sport = 19.2 L/100k Pajero =17.2 L/100k
Pajero sport
The overall economy was quite a surprise. The Pajero came in with the best
result of 17.4L/100k compared to the Pajero Sports 18.3 L/100k
overall.
There will always some variables and debate over economy figures,
but the though despite the 8 speed automatic gearbox, the 2.4L diesel
in the Pajero Sport was certainly earning its keep towing the caravan.
The Pajero Sport seemed to handle the hill climbs easier than the
Pajero thanks to the 8 speed auto and less overall weight.
Pajero
Both Pajero Sport and Pajero cruised comfortably on the freeway. As
mentioned previously, the Pajero Sport required more concentration and
correction when the larger semitrailers overtook.
Pros and Cons – Pajero Sport.
•
•
•
•
•
•
31
I liked the quiet & well insulated cabin. Modern and functional.
I was very impressed by the torque and towing ability from the 2.4L turbo
diesel.
I am now a paddle convert! The shift paddles certainly assisted in changing
up and down the 8 speed auto.
Due to the small sloping rear section, visibility was greatly reduced.
Be aware that the stiff suspension will produce a ‘thump’ through the vehicle
on some potholes in the road.
One major flaw is the placement of the Trailer Brake next
to the Stability Control ‘Off’ switch. On one downhill
section, I found I had switched off the stability control
thinking I was activating the trailer brakes! Please
Mitsubishi and all Auto electricians, please relocate the
trailer brakes to a central position where it can be reached
and activated by driver and passenger. (See photo)
Vol 34 No. 6- AUG/SEP