All-new 2016 Mitsubishi Challenger officially unveiled

Mitsubishi has officially unveiled their all-new 2016 Mitsubishi Challenger 4×4 SUV at the 2015 Bangkok International Grand Motor Sale in Thailand today.

Known as the Pajero Sport in markets like Thailand, the new model features Mitsubishi’s new Dynamic Shield front fascia that first made its debut on the facelifted Mitsubishi Outlander.

Inside, a high console proportion dashboard with dynamically styled silver-finish ornamentation and plush sculpted seats make it the most luxurious Challenger to date.

Mitsubishi says the third-generation Challenger offers rugged luxury, sophisticated technology and genuine four-wheel drive performance.

Under the bonnet is the Japanese brand’s 2.4-litre MIVEC turbo diesel engine delivering 133kW and 430Nm of torque. It is mated to a new 8-speed automatic transmission, replacing the old 5-speed unit.

Handling, stability, ride and quietness have all been claimed to be improved through optimisation of the suspension and improvements to the body mounts. The use of upgraded sound insulation and a new diesel engine is said to provide a significant reduction in interior noise.

The new model brings new active safety features such as Blind Spot Warning and Ultrasonic misacceleration Mitigation System (USM) which, while stationary or at speed of up to 10km/h, uses ultrasonic sensors to detect vehicle obstructions and regulates engine power if the driver hits the accelerator by mistake.

Additional safety firsts include a Multi-around Monitor which displays a bird’s eye image of the vehicle’s perimeter and Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) braking. The new model gains an electronic parking brake to save space.

The Challenger uses a further-evolved version of MMC’s own Super Select II four-wheel drive system. This is complemented by the new Off-road Mode terrain selection system, a first on a Mitsubishi, which gives better all-terrain performance and stability as the road surface requires.

The addition of Hill Descent Control, another first for Mitsubishi, and greater wading depth also enhance the Challengers off-road capabilities.

Mitsubishi Motors Australia Executive Director of Marketing Tony Principe said the new-generation Challenger demonstrates the brand’s renewed emphasis on style, refinement and cutting edge technology.

“Mitsubishi Motors’ Challenger successor is another example of our product direction and reflects the new appeal, design excellence, quality and refinement we are building into our vehicles.

“The 2016 Challenger represents a new-generation of SUV with luxury, high-tech safety features and superior comfort while still delivering class leading 4WD capabilities and great on-road performance.”

Australian pricing and specifications will be announced closer to the car’s local launch later this year.