2016 Mitsubishi Challenger unveiled

The new Challenger, which will compete against the Fortuner, Colorado and Everest four-wheel drives when it comes to Australia early next year, was launched globally at the 2015 Bangkok International Grand Motor Sale at the weekend.

Marketed as having 'rugged luxury' and 'genuine four-wheel drive performance', the seven-seat wagon will include an updated version of Mitsubishi’s Super Select II 4x4 drive system, and a new Off-Road Mode terrain selection system, a first on a Mitsubishi.

Its Hill Descent Control is another first and, along with a greater wading depth, will further improve the SUV's off-road capabilities.

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In the power department, the new Challenger has a 2.4-litre MIVEC turbo diesel engine mated to a new 8-speed automatic transmission.

According to Mitsubishi, this 'punchy' engine achieves better environmental performance.

Handling, stability, ride and quietness have also reportedly been improved via work on the suspension and the body mounts, while upgraded sound insulation and the new diesel engine also reduces interior noise.

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Inside, a high-console proportion dashboard features silver-finish ornamentation and sculpted seats.

New safety features include Blind Sport Warning (BSW) and Ultrasonic misacceleration Mitigation System (UMS) which, while stationary or at speeds of up to 10 km/h, uses ultrasonic sensors to detect vehicle obstructions and regulates engine power if the drive depresses the accelerator hard by mistake.

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Additional safety firsts include a Multi-around Monitor, which displays a bird’s eye image of the vehicle’s perimeter and the new model also gains an electronic parking brake.

Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) braking will feature on the new Challenger, while the RISE impact safety body design and seven SRS airbags further improve safety.

Named the Pajero Sport in markets like Thailand, the Challenger features Mitsubishi Motors’ new Dynamic Shield front face design concept, a revamp of the design seen in models of the Pajero series.

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The new SUV will go on sale in Thailand this Spring and will be launched progressively in 90 countries across ASEAN, the Middle East, Africa, Latin America and Russia in coming months.

Mitsubishi Motors Australia will announce details of the new Australian specification Challenger closer to its local launch.

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