The third generation Pajero received a complete make-over before being released to the
Australian market in May 2000. Being treated to a lower and wider stance, the lower center of
gravity made the Pajero a more comfortable car on the road and longer suspension stroke and
chassis rigidity improving the car off road.
Australia was an important market for the Pajero and local engineers were invited to be a part of
the design team early in the process. So changes were made to the suspension, steering, ABS
braking, cruise control and dust sealing meaning Pajeros sold worldwide benefitted from the
Aussie design work.
This was the first Pajero to have a full monocoque body with integrated chassis. This new body
made it stronger and lighter than the previous model. This also allowed it to have independent
suspension which gave greater wheel travel, which when combined with the shorter bumpers
improving approach and departure angles made for a great off-road vehicle.
As well as the body, the SS4 gearbox received a complete overhaul, featuring new gears and
complete electronic control, allowing it to be adjusted when the car was not in gear. After all its
upgrades this system was renamed to the Super Select 4WD II (SS4-II).
The third generation retained the 3.5L V6 though also saw the introduction of the 3.2L DiD turbo
diesel engine, producing 120 kw and 352 nm of torque.