Mitsubishi Challenger Reviews

It took a pick-up and applied a four-door wagon body to create an off-road capable SUV, many years before the concept became as common as it is now (Fortuner, Everest, MU-X, and more)

When launched in 1998, the Mitsubishi Challenger was virtually a Mitsubishi Triton pickup with a station wagon body. Over the years it has became more slightly more sophisticated but still shares some components with the Triton. Which is no bad thing as the Triton is a tough ute with a good reputation in Australia. 

We turn the spotlight on the Mitsubishi Challenger LS and answer the important questions, including the biggest -- would you buy one?

Mitsubishi's Challenger off-roader arrived on the market as buyers were shifting more and more towards SUVs without genuine off-road credentials.NEWThe attractively styled mid-sized 4WD wagon was a genuine off-roader built on the Triton chassis and using the Triton turbo-diesel engine and Super Select full-time/part-time 4WD system, and a rear diff lock. There were five models in two trim levels, the LS and XLS, offering the choice of five and seven seats.The Challenger's cabin is a pleasant and comfortable place to reside, although getting in required quite a step up and there was no grab handles to help you. Once aboard, however, you found yourself in comfortable and supportive seats, leather trimmed on the XLS, and faced by a nicely laid-out dash with everything you could need within easy reach and placed where you might expect them to be.Generally, there's ample room for adults in all three seating rows, although the unlucky one that cops the middle of the second row would be cramped and those who have to sit in the third row would only want to stay there for a relatively short trip. The 2.5-litre turbo-diesel does the job comfortably, if a little noisily. It's got plenty of mid-range punch for easy driving and good towing.There was a choice of manual and auto transmissions with gearing that has the engine working at its peak most of the time. On the highway the auto transmission tends to hunt in and out of overdrive on anything but flat roads. Off-road the Challenger is a competent operator, with decent ground clearance, good front and rear angles, as well as adequate protection underneath, a rear diff lock and front traction control.On the black top the Challenger holds its own with most of its rivals. It cruises comfortably, rides well and handles with aplomb for a big traditional off-road wagon. It wasn't lacking in equipment either. Standard features on both models included climate-control air-conditioning, CD player, six speakers, leather steering wheel, cruise. On top of that the XLS range-topper got leather trim, powered driver's seat, wood trim, premium sound, reversing camera, rear park sensors, fog lights and headlight washers.NOWThe Challenger is a solid vehicle with decent build quality and mechanics tell us that it is giving little trouble in the field. There are no serious flaws from the factory, so focus on issues that have resulted from its use. In particular pay close attention to the exterior and underbody for signs of off-road use.Mitsubishi was keen to point out that the Challenger would cope with being beaten around the bush, and some owners may well have taken them up on the challenge. Look for bent fittings and appendages underneath, exhaust hangers, suspension mountings etc. Also look for anything that might indicate water entry into vitals located underneath.Look for scratches, dents and bumps on exterior panels from having bounced off the scenery. Continue shopping should you suspect a car has been used offroad. Check for a service record showing oil changes and regular maintenance, as with all cars servicing is vital to a long life. There was a recall in 2011 to check the floor mats as some were fitted with mats that could affect the operation of the accelerator.SMITHY SAYSGood choice for those who want a real off-roader that isn't out of its comfort zone in town.Mitsubishi Challenger - 2009-2011Price new: $44,490 to $58,890Engine: 2.5-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-diesel, 131 kW/350 Nm (auto), 131 kW/400 Nm (man)Transmission: 5-speed man, 5-speed auto, 4WDEconomy: 8.3 L/100 km (man), 9.8 L/100 km (auto)Body: 4-door wagonVariants: LS, XLSSafety: 4-star ANCAP

When introduced to Australia in 1998, the Mitsubishi Challenger was virtually a Triton pickup fitted with a station wagon body. Over the years it retained parts in common with the Triton but became more sophisticated.Challenger is slightly smaller and less passenger oriented vehicle than selling Mitsubishi Pajero. This makes it significantly cheaper. Many 4WD enthusiasts say the Challenger is closer to being a ‘real’ 4WD than the Pajero, and love it for that.Take it to forest trails and it will cope with ease, likewise it handles beach driving well. Having said that, a well driven Pajero can be pretty handy off-road as well. From mid 2007 until December 2009 no new Challengers were built.That’s because the engineers concentrated on designing the all-new Triton (the one with the interesting shape at the rear of the doors) before starting to expand their efforts onto the Challenger. Mitsubishi Challenger was a five-seater until the all-new model of 2009 when a seven-seat option was offered.All Challengers have good head and legroom but the older models are a bit cramped for width in the back for three big adults. Luggage space is excellent in the five-seater, with plenty of length and width. Naturally, the seven-seat models lose space in the rear, but are still pretty good.The area is quite easy to load despite being high off the ground. There is also plenty of in-cabin storage space. The Challenger has reasonable on-road comfort for its type and most owners are happy with its characteristics. Later models improved in this.However, those looking for a very relaxed suburban ride may be better off opting for Pajero instead. The Mitsubishi Challenger’s engine is either a 3.0-litre petrol V6 unit or a four-cylinder 2.5-litre turbo-diesel. The petrol engine is willing enough, but is slightly down on torque at everyday revs.So you have to work at gearchanging to keep it working to best advantage. The five-speed manual gearbox is light and easy to use. The automatic transmission used prior to 2009 is a four-speed unit, then moved up to five-speed unit with the all-new 2009. The auto has Mitsubishi’s semi-intelligent change system and can be used as a sequential manual.The Challenger’ doesn’t use the highly-regarded Super Select 4WD system fitted to the Mitsubishi Pajero, rather it has an old-style setup which normally drives the rear wheels only. The two-speed transfer case can be shifted on-the-fly between 2H and 4H at speeds of up to 100 km/h and the front hubs are automatic.So, apart from the inability to use 4WD on sealed roads the system is almost as good as the Super Select one. Though some see this setup as being old-fashioned it explains part of the aforementioned appeal to buyers looking for a ‘real’ 4WD.The suspension in the original ute-based model has a very firm ride that can make the Challenger tiring on a long trip. Mitsubishi made major revisions to the suspension as part of the mid-2000 facelift and mechanical makeover. The 2009 Triton is much more civilised in the comfort department.Spare parts availability is good and we have heard of no complaints about pricing. Mitsubishi is long established in Australia, having built cars in its Adelaide factory for many years, so is well represented in most areas. Even when you’re deep into the outback there’s a good chance you can find parts and a mechanic who understands the Challenger.Insurance is generally at the lower end as it’s the sort of vehicle that normally sells to conservative people.WHAT TO LOOK FORIf you suspect the Mitsubishi Challenger has had a lot of use on dirt roads and in off-road conditions make a careful check of the interior fittings as the firm suspension can eventually cause squeaks and rattles.Look over the cabin for signs of rough usage, being sure to look into all the hidden storage areas for damage that may have been caused by bored junior travellers. At the same time check out the luggage area for damage and/or bad staining.While the Challenger was built down to a price, quality certainly didn’t suffer and there's the typically impressive Japanese attention to detail. Look under the Challenger’s body for signs of damage caused by too-hard driving in harsh areas. Also look and taste for salt on the chassis rails.Salt can really attack steel and frequent beach use can cause corrosion to rip into the metal if it’s left unchecked. Make sure that the Mitsubishi’s engine starts easily and idles smoothly as soon as it settles into its rhythm.Check the engine doesn't blow any exhaust smoke when accelerated hard, especially after it's been idling for a while. It if does it could be due for an expensive overhaul. Be sure that all gearchanges are smooth and light. Check that 4WD is engaged in both high and low ratios without too much effort.CAR BUYING TIPDon’t even think of handing over your hard earned until you've had a full professional inspection, preferably from an expert on the make/model you’re considering.

Mitsubishi has joined the crowd of medium SUVs offering two-wheel drive instead of four.Why drive all wheels when two will do? It's a trend driving one of the fastest-growing segments of the car market.Almost all the popular SUVs are available with two-wheel drive, saving drivers thousands of dollars compared with their all-wheel drive stablemates.The difference here is the Challenger started life as a serious 4WD with a low-range gearbox, a full chassis and off-road capability, unlike most of its rivals which came with single-range all-wheel drive and more car-like underpinnings.And the Challenger 2WD is propelled by the rear axle not the front as is the norm.But while eliminating the transfer case and front drive line saves $5000 and about 120kg, there is a compromise or two.Stability is similar to the 4WD on high-grip surfaces, but this five-door wagon's high centre of gravity and relatively rigid suspension make it skittish on loose gravel and slippery surfaces, where it is heavily reliant on traction control to maintain directional stability.Clearance is unchanged and more than enough, but don't let anyone tell you a rear-drive Challenger will go where the 4WD will go.It's not supposed to, but with high clearance, it will clamber around the bush and potter around the paddocks as long as conditions are dry. It also retains a 3-tonne towing capacity, the highest in its class.Unlike its rivals, the Challenger is diesel only. The 2.5-litre engine is responsive and flexible, although there is no escaping its diesel origins accompanied by plenty of fan noise under load. Output is 131kW and 400Nm in the manual, with the same power but 50Nm less torque in the automatic. Fuel use is 8.2 litres/100km in the five-speed manual and 9.6 litres/100km in the five-speed automatic, a drop or two less than the 4WD models.Within the Mitsubishi stable, the Challenger sits between the Outlander and the Pajero. It is based on the Triton, but with a smoother-riding multi-link coil rear suspension, although it feels more rigid to drive than most of its car-like rivals.Styling is clean and functional. It looks and feels compact, with a commanding driving position. The interior is car-like, albeit with a high floor and low-geared steering.There are two versions -- the $36,990 manual and the $39,490 automatic. Equipment includes front airbags, stability control, traction control, emergency brake assist, 16-inch alloy wheels, a steel spare, cruise control, trip computer, side-steps and a five year/130,000km warranty and roadside assistance plus a 10 year/160,000km powertrain warranty.weeklytimesnow

WE turn the spotlight on the car world's newest and brightest stars as we ask the questions to which you want the answers. But there's only one question that really needs answering would you buy one? The cheaper two wheel drive version of Mitsubishi's Challenger wagon. If you think it looks like the Triton ute you're right because its based on the Triton.More than it should be. The auto will set you back $39,490 which buys you a lot of other things including a big chunk of Holden Captiva.Captiva, Kia Sorento, Hyundai Santa Fe to name a few around the same price. 2.5-litre turbo diesel delivers a good mix of power and economy, with 131kW of power at 4000 revs and and 350Nm of torque at 1800 revs. The diesel in our test vehicle was mated to a five-speed auto with the facility to change gears manually. A five-speed manual is also available for $2500 less. Suprisingly well. Didn't both with the manual change, just left it in D which works fine. The large change paddles are also superfluous. Clips along at a good rate of knots and is reasonable quick off the line.The auto is rated at 9.6 litres/100km. We had trouble keeping track of the consumption because of the confusing trip computer. But after 1800km we believe it was returning 8.4 litres/100k which is quite good for a vehicle this size. Gets 2.5 stars from the Govt's Green Vehicle Guide, with CO2 emissions of 215g/km. Prius sets the benchmark with five stars. Good question. Two airbags are standard. If you take up the Safety pack for $1050 you get side and curtain airbags. You can get a reversing camera to go with them with the Convenience pack which retails for $3640 and is availabel with the auto only. With either of these options it gets four out of five stars for safety.Not very. Not if you find yourself in the back seat. The seat is narrow with a straight back and short squab, like something you'd find in a dual cab ute which of course is what it basically is. No complaints. The tall narrow stance means you can't go screaming into corners. The lack of all wheel drive is not an issue as far as we're concerned.The big plus is the large boot. In five seat form there's plenty of room back there for all your holiday needs. Convenience Pack also adds Bluetooth, climate air, 17-inch alloys, fog lamps, auto lights and wipers and roof rails as well as a leather steering wheel with audio controls, privacy glass and six speaker sound system.Depends. Has more boot space than any of its competitors if that is important. The kids probably won't complain about the back seat but your conscious might. Then there's the safety rating which is not as good as the others.

Most SUV buyers simply want a wagon to cart the kids to school and pick up the shopping at the supermarket, rarely do they want to head off the beaten track, but Mitsubishi reckoned there were enough SUV owners who did to produce a wagon that was capable offroad.The new PB Challenger introduced in 2009 was just such a vehicle and it stood apart from the regular SUV pretenders. Sitting between the Outlander soft-roader and the Pajero four-wheel drive the Challenger offered an attractive blend of town manners and real bush capability.While the Challenger sat on a new platform it shared many components with the Triton ute, such as the front chassis and suspension, turbo - diesel engine, transmission, four-wheel drive system and rear axle. The four-wheel drive system that gives it its off-road capability boasts a central diff, dual range, and a lockable rear diff.Its offroad ability is enhanced by its high ground clearance and good, approach, departure and ramp angles. There was just one engine on offer and that was a 2.5-litre common - rail turbo - diesel engine that delivered plenty of low-down grunt to cope with the tough going without being out of its comfort zone around town.Two transmissions were available, a five-speed manual and a five - speed auto, the latter with manual shifting. Two models were offered, the entry level LS that came with the manual gearbox and five seats, and the five-seater XLS that had the automatic transmission. The LS could be optioned up with the auto, and both models could be upgraded to seven seats at extra cost.The XLS was the model with all the fruit with leather trim, satnav, reversing camera, parking sensors, privacy glass, headlight washers, Bluetooth, and upgraded sound. Inside, there is good room all round for all occupants who sit on comfortable seats.When specified the third row of seats has a 50/50 split/fold function and there's still room for a decent amount of luggage behind the third row. Access to the rear is through a lift-up tailgate rather than a swing out door, handier when you're towing, and the spare wheel is located underneath.IN THE SHOPThe Challenger is a solid unit with pretty decent build quality that is giving little trouble in the field. There are no serious flaws from the factory, so focus on issues that have resulted from its use. In particular pay close attention to the exterior and underbody for signs of offroad use. Mitsubishi was keen to point out that the Challenger would cope with being beaten around the bush, and some owners may well have taken them up on the challenge.Look for bent fittings and appendages underneath, exhaust hangers, suspension mountings etc. Also look for anything that might indicate water entry into vitals located underneath. On the outside look for scratches, dents and bumps from having bounced off the scenery.Continue shopping should you suspect a car has been used offroad. Check for a service record showing oil changes.IN A CRASHFour stars out of a possible five isn't a bad result, particularly given the Challenger sits on a ladder frame chassis, which isn't as crash friendly as a unitary body like most SUVs have. But it's got a raft of airbags, front and side, as well as the now expected ABS braking and anti-skid electronics.UNDER THE PUMPThe turbo-diesel engine ensures the Challenger delivers decent fuel mileage, with the manual coming in at 8.3 L/100 km and the auto at 9.8 L/100 km according to Mitsubishi's claims.MITSUBISHI CHALLENGER - 2009-2010Price new: $44,490 to $58,590 Engine: 2.5-litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel, 131 kW/350 NmTransmission: 5-speed auto, five-speed manual, 4WDEconomy: 8.3-9.8 L/100 kmBody: 4-door wagonVariants: LS, XLS Safety: 4-star ANCAP

The Challenger was the product of an earlier era when it was expected that four-wheel drive vehicles would be rough and tough.DESIGNIn 2000 the Challenger PA was released in a significant upgrade with new looks, new rear suspension, a new automatic transmission and a new up-spec LS model, all in the hope of appealing more to families who were then showing a desire to move into mid-sized wagons.The new front and rear looks were designed to brighten and freshen to Challenger with a new grille, chrome highlights, rear lamps and bumper, and new side mouldings.The engine was the same 3.0-litre V6 as used in the NK Pajero and the Triton ute. It was a smooth revving, enthusiastic engine that gave the Challenger decent on-road performance, and there was plenty of torque on tap for off-road driving.TECHNOLOGYNew to the PA was the INVECS II auto transmission that kept the engine working in its most productive range. The auto was yet another sign of Mitsubishi's revised intent with the Challenger, another was the change from hard-riding rear leaf springs to the softer ride of coils more appreciated by towns folk.DRIVINGOn the black top the Challenger's ride was smooth, quiet and comfortable, although it still rolled quite a bit in the way those old off-roaders did. Off-road it was competent with good ground clearance and an easy selection four-wheel drive system, which included a low-range gear.Standard equipment was generous with air, power mirrors and windows, central locking and CD sound on the base model, plus cruise, sidesteps, fog lamps and leather trim on the LS.IN THE SHOPThe trade gives the Challenger a big tick for reliability. They don't have any flaws to be concerned about providing they are well serviced as per the schedule, which is every 15,000 km. The V6 has a timing belt and that needs to be changed every 100,000 km.Check for a service record to confirm regular maintenance, and inspect the body for shoddy crash repairs. It's also important to check for regular off-road use, which can show up as underbody damage, sand blasting underneath, scratches on the paintwork, and dust intrusion to the cabin.Avoid cars that appear to have been used offroad regularlyIN A CRASHDriver and front passenger airbags were standard, but the important option of ABS brakes was only standard on the LS. To get ABS on the base model you had to buy an option pack that included it.ANCAP doesn't have a rating for the Challenger, but it would be fair to expect it to come in towards the bottom of the ratings scale being such an old model and lacking most of the modern safety systems.UNDER THE PUMPThe Challenger was no lightweight and the V6 no fuel-miser, so the combination was a little thirsty with a claimed average of almost 12 L/100 km. Running costs could be cut if needed by converting to LPG.AT A GLANCEPrice new: $36,990 to $43,885Engine: 3.0-litre V6 petrol; 136 kW/265 NmTransmission: 5-speed manual, 4-speed auto, 4WDEconomy: 11.9 L/100 kmBody: Wagon Variants: Base and LSSafety: N/AGreen: N/A

The Ford Falcon wagon is dead. The Toyota Camry wagon is gone. Some like the Holden Sportswagon still survive, and there are loyal buyers in both the small-car and luxury classes, but the rising tide of SUVs has washed most station wagons out of showrooms.The distinction between the traditional sedan-based station wagons and Australia’s new favourite family freighter has become much more blurred in the past decade or so.However, there are still some important points of difference. And it's worth looking at some of the leading contenders on the rival teams to see what's happening and what works best for you.A sedan-based wagon is usually lighter than a similarly-sized SUV. This means better fuel economy and lower costs for servicing and tyres. It also sits closer to the bitumen, with a lower centre of gravity, so it’s more agile and stable, especially when cornering or in an emergency manoeuvre.However, you don’t enjoy the high-and-mighty driving position, with an unimpeded view of the road, that SUV drivers - and women in particular - cite as one of the breed’s major attractions.Who hasn’t sat in traffic, cursing the SUV blocking your vision? Booming SUV sales indicate more and more people are taking the view that, if I can’t beat ‘em, I may as well join ‘em.It’s a myth that SUVs are more space-efficient than wagons, however most mid-sized models - including the popular Holden Captiva and Ford's Territory - can come with a couple of extra seats in the back, a feature you no longer find in conventional wagons.Kids also love an SUV’s elevated seating position because they can enjoy the scenery, whereas many wagons have low seats and high side window sills, which, for nippers, can be like sitting in a hole.  So they get unhappy. And we know what happens then...Whether you choose a sedan-based wagon or an SUV - an Americanism for Sports Utility Vehicle, incidentally - the good news is that affordable family transport, with five star safety, can now also be an enjoyable drive.Among the wagons, the Commodore VE Series ll Sportwagon, priced from $41,990 for the 190kW, 3.0-litre V6 Omega, is a standout. It looks sensational - which, it must be said, is still a rare thing in wagon world.Recent improvements to drivetrains, including E85 ethanol fuel compatibility, direct fuel inection and a six-speed automatic - plus a flash new dash with hands-free Bluetooth and audi streaming as standard - have re-written the Commodore's technical resume to 21st century standards.Around town, the 3.0-litre V6 averages 12.6L/100km in official tests.  A big serve of additional grunt in the 3.6-litre V6 SV6 Sportwagon, plus tighter suspension, sports seats and other extras, justifies its $45,790 ask, and with a city average of 13.3L/100km, you’re not savagely penalised at the pump.Despite the Commodore's appeal, Ford’s Mondeo and the little-known Skoda Superb are the kings of outright space. Behind the driver’s seat, both are as big as the MCG.  Given their size, the fuel economy from their 2.0-litre turbodiesel engines is amazing.  The 120kW, six-speed automated-manual Mondeo, from $36,840, pulls like a train and averages just 7.7L/100km in town.The Skoda is VW engineering with a Czech badge, making  luxury wagon for half the expected price. The 125kW six-speed automated-manual Superb Ambition is $43,990, with a city average of 8.3L/100km and the 118kW 1.8-litre petrol turbo Ambition, at $40,990, offers respectable performance too, averaging 9.7L/100km.In the SUV showroom, Ford’s Territory, from $39,890, is still one of the best size/price/performance packages available - especially with the inevitable big discount ahead of the facelifted model - but the all-wheel drive’s 17.6L/100km thirst in town is a major disincentive.Later this month, a 140kW 2.7-litre V6 turbodiesel engine, which averages 11.6L/100km, goes under the bonnet as part of a major upgrade. It will be worth a test drive.Kia’s Sorento, a classy, competent seven-seater with a brilliant 2.2-litre, 145kW turbodiesel, starts at $39,999, with a five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty. Around town, it averages 9.5L/100 kilometres. The five-seater Subaru Outback now has enough interior acreage to keep a family happy.  This blue-chip, made-in-Japan SUV starts at $38,490 for the 123kW 2.5-litre petrol (11.5-litres per 100 kilometres), or $40,490 for a 110kW 2.0-litre turbodiesel, in manual only, with a 7.7- litres per 100 kilometre average.Load Lugger ChecklistRear camera: All cars should have one as standard, especially wagons and SUVs. The Sorento’s is a brilliant design, integrated into the rearview mirror.Curtain airbags: Essential protection against a side impact. In a seven seater, they should extend to all three rows of seats. In the Territory, they don’t.Child restraint anchors: Should be on the back of the rear seat, not in the load floor, or the roof (as in the Outback), where the tether straps get in the wayCargo bay: Check that the extended floor is flat when you fold the back seat, and that you don’t have to push the driver’s seat too far forward.Row-three seats: In SUVs most are pretty small, suitable for little kids only, or short trips. Check access, which should be easiest from the kerb side.Protection: You need some way to secure gear, because in a prang even small objects behind the back seat become lethal missiles. Options include a solid load cover, a net, a roll out mesh barrier, that clips into the roof, or an aftermarket barrier.Want to go off road ... really off road?Try these:Jeep Grand Cherokee from $45,000. The new Laredo 3.6-litre V6 petrol is great value, but the diesel, due in June, will be a better drive. Hard-core off-roading made easy, and the all-new Grand Cherokee is much improved on the bitumen too.Mitsubishi Challenger from $45,000. Lots of Pajero bits in this, with lower starting prices and a competent, if rather coarse, 2.5 turbodiesel. Seven seats from $49,390, a huge cargo bay, and a locking rear differential.Toyota Landcruiser Prado from $55,990. It’s a Toyota 4WD, so it’s pricey, but you get bulletproof reliability, unbeatable resale values and smooth, but leisurely, performance from the 3.0-litre turbodiesel.