ROAD TESTS | By Rubin van Niekerk
Mitsubishi Pajero Sport 2,4 D4 4x4
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had the opportunity to experience the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport on a very tough off-road 4x4 track and the satisfaction of winning the offroad racing challenge with my co-driver Adam Ford! Hell hath no fury like dust covered off-road enthusiasts! Most satisfying, I confess. The most notable change is the sophisticated car-like driving dynamics and a best-in-class 8-speed automatic transmission coupled to a marvellous highly responsive turbo diesel engine. A new Super
Hyundai 1,25 Grand i10 Fluid Auto
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his little car with its solid build quality and reputation for reliability is a well-priced charmer. Based on the hugely successful Hyundai Getz that it replaced in 2014, the Grand i10 bridges the gap between a small A-segment car and a larger B-segment car. Being the smallest car in the local Hyundai range, the remarkably spacious interior is a pleasant surprise. Even very tall males fit comfortably in the front, and rear seat occupants up to about 1,85cm will still have headroom. Observing the car from outside, this space-maximising engineering feat in such a small car deserves a standing ovation. It has more rear seat space than most larger B-segment cars. Beside roominess, dropping the rear seats presents over 1200 litres of space, which is one of the best in its class. 48
Select 4-II 4WD system with advanced electronic assistance like Hill Descent Control and OffRoad Mode Control for superior traction is better than anything I have experienced yet. On steep embankments where you feel the car’s rear is about to forward-flip, the Pajero just quietly putters along while you just have to steer and stay calm. Once completed you step out like John Wayne and do a slight nod through slit eyes at your admiring audience! In 1933 Mitsubishi launched the world’s first passenger vehicle with full-time four-wheel drive and 84 years later, Mitsubishi presented their new Pajero Sport. A luxurious purpose-built sport utility vehicle with refined driving dynamics that challenges many spacious and luxurious sedans, for far less than its peers. Electronic assistance allows the driver to select either the Gravel, Mud/Snow, Sand or Rock setting to suit surface conditions and optimise engine output, transmission settings and braking for superior traction. A lockable rear differential ensures great road holding under any conditions. Pajero is synonymous with a soft drive and feel,
A sleek exterior contributes to very low noise levels that is also aided by a non-protruding windscreen sealing that improves aerodynamic airflow. Noise levels as measured in decibells are lower than many premium sedans at highway speeds. Powered by a “Kappa” 1,25-litre engine with many outstanding features such as a maintenance-free long-life timing chain, the Hyundai’s responsiveness on steep uphills was impressive. High seating positions and large windows provide excellent allround views, that combined with light electric steering makes manoeuvring in traffic and tight parking spaces a breeze. Unsurprisingly therefore, it attracts a wide demographic from young first-time buyers to much older people who also appreciate the high standard specifications. Our flagship test unit had all the bells and whistles, including electrically heated side mirrors that fold at the press of a button and a large full-colour touch-screen where many functions could be controlled. I recommend spending the R2 500 extra on an SD memory card that activates the navigation on the infotainment system. Engine 4-Cylinder Inline Transverse 1248 cc Power 64 kW @ 6000 rpm Torque 120 Nm @ 4000 rpm Acceleration 0-100 km/h in 14,2 seconds Top Speed 167 km/h Overall Fuel Consumption 6,9 lt/100 km Load Capacity 256-1202 lt Turning Circle 9,8 m Ground Clearance 167 mm Weight 1078 kg Price R206 900 2-Year/30 000 km Service Plan CO2 Emissions 147 g/km
