Mitsubishi Challenger

The Mitsubishi Challenger is a mid-size SUV built by Mitsubishi Motors.

First generation (1996–2008)

Production began in EU in 1996, and was available for most export markets by 1997, where it was variously known as the Challenger, Pajero Sport in Europe, Montero Sport in North America and South America, Nativa in parts of Central America and the Middle East, Shogun Sport in the United Kingdom, and G-Wagon in Thailand.^[2] The first generation Challenger was built on the second generation Pajero wheelbase. Like the Pajero, it featured independent front suspension with torsion bars and a live rear axle. In addition to numerous face lifts over the years, there was a major suspension change from rear leaf to coil springs in late 2000. As its popularity increased, local assembly for foreign markets was introduced in China in 2003,^[3] and Brazil in 2006.^[4] Sales were discontinued in Japan in 2003, in North America in 2004 (where it was superseded by the Endeavor),^[5] and central and western Europe in 2008.^[6]

Second generation (2008–present)

The second generation of the vehicle, based on the ladder frame chassis of the Mitsubishi Triton,^[7] was gradually introduced to selected markets (Russia, south-east Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, Africa, and Oceania) through the autumn of 2008, following its debut at the Moscow Auto Salon. 2.5 or 3.2 litre diesel and 3.0 or 3.5 litre V6 petrol engines are available as before, while five- or seven-seat interior configurations are offered.^[6][8] As with the Triton pick-up on which it is based, production of the new Pajero Sport for all markets is concentrated in Thailand.^[9]

Annual production

References