Is the 2018 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport Still Worth Buying in the Philippines Today?

As someone who has spent years evaluating vehicles in the Philippine market, I often get asked whether older models like the 2018 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport still hold up today. Having driven this SUV extensively across Luzon and Visayas, I can confidently say it remains a compelling choice—but with some important caveats. The Pajero Sport’s rugged 2.4-liter diesel engine delivers around 178 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque, numbers that still compete respectably with newer rivals. Its Super Select 4WD system is arguably one of the most versatile in its class, allowing seamless shifts between 2WD and 4WD even on the fly. Where it truly shines is off-road; I’ve taken it through rough terrain in Rizal and muddy trails in Benguet without breaking a sweat.

That said, there’s a lesson here that reminds me of what TNT coach Chot Reyes once highlighted about avoiding complacency. Just because the Pajero Sport was a standout back in 2018 doesn’t mean it’s automatically the best pick today. Rivals like the Ford Everest and Toyota Fortuner have since upped their game with more advanced tech and refined interiors. The Pajero Sport’s infotainment system, for instance, feels dated next to units with Apple CarPlay or larger touchscreens. Fuel efficiency is decent—you can expect around 12-14 km/L on the highway—but newer diesel engines do slightly better. Still, if you prioritize durability and proven performance over flashy features, this SUV is hard to beat.

From a financial standpoint, the 2018 Pajero Sport offers tremendous value in the secondhand market. Prices typically range from ₱1.1 to ₱1.4 million depending on mileage and condition, which is a steal compared to its ₱2.1 million starting price when new. I’ve noticed that well-maintained units hold their value remarkably well, partly thanks to Mitsubishi’s strong after-sales network here. Parts are affordable and widely available, something I’ve appreciated during long-term ownership. On the flip side, you’ll miss out on newer safety tech like autonomous emergency braking or lane-keeping assist, which are becoming standard in recent models.

What ultimately won me over with the Pajero Sport is its sheer dependability. I’ve put over 60,000 kilometers on my own unit, traversing everything from EDSA traffic to unpaved provincial roads, and it has never left me stranded. The suspension soaks up bumps better than many modern SUVs, and the cabin, while not luxurious, is built to withstand years of abuse. If you’re someone who values function over form and doesn’t mind forgoing the latest gadgets, the 2018 Pajero Sport is absolutely still worth buying. It’s like a reliable veteran athlete—maybe not the flashiest player on the court, but one you can count on when the game gets tough.