Many firsts mark Mitsubishi’s first 100 years as a world-class vehicle manufacturer – not the least the claim to the world’s first SUV.
And in South Africa, Mitsubishi Motors is getting ready to keep the momentum going with launching a host of new and improved models with the highlight the soon to arrive brand-new Pajero Sport.
Back in 1917, the Mitsubishi Model A was not only the Mitsubishi Shipping Company’s very first production model, but became the first mass-production car in Japanese history. Sixteen years later Mitsubishi launched the PX33 – the first passenger vehicle with full-time four-wheel drive.
Slightly more recently – in 1970, to be exact – Mitsubishi became the first automaker to mass market an electric vehicle.
On local shores, Mitsubishi’s heritage dates back over four decades when the small Colt 1100 range was first assembled in South Africa.
And now, in its centenary year, modern vehicles such as the Pajero (the most successful winner of the renowned Dakar Rally with no less than 12 victories overall, including seven straight Dakar wins), the all-new Mitsubishi Triton, the compact cross-over known as the ASX, and the luxurious 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander, are paving the way for a host of new models to celebrate Mitsubishi’s first 100 years.
These will include the new compact Eclipse Cross that was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March, and will make its local debut in 2018.
Soon to arrive, however, will be the all-new Pajero Sport with its much-admired, new-generation high performance turbo-diesel engine mated to a state-of-the-art eight-speed automatic transmission – yet another first for the three-diamond brand.
Boasting Mitsubishi’s innovative Dynamic Shield front-end design, the new Pajero Sport will also be available with the latest version of Mitsubishi’s Super-Select 4WD-II system, including transfer gearing with low range.
Mitsubishi Motors South Africa is celebrating Mitsubishi’s first 100 years with an aggressive dealer campaign throughout 2017.
“Our existing products have earned their place in the South African market over many years, and our latest updated models is our way of celebrating Mitsubishi’s first 100 years,” says Nic Campbell, General Manager for Mitsubishi SA. “And the imminent arrival of two star models soon will be the start of the next 100 years!”
