Is the 2016 Pajero Sport Still Worth Buying Today? A Complete Review

I remember the first time I drove a 2016 Pajero Sport through Bangkok's chaotic streets during the rainy season. The wipers struggled against the downpour, but the vehicle's solid build and confident handling made me feel completely secure. That experience comes to mind whenever someone asks me whether this seven-year-old SUV still holds up today. Having tested numerous SUVs across Southeast Asia, including during research trips for regional sports events like the upcoming 33rd SEA Games in Thailand this December, I've developed a particular appreciation for vehicles that balance rugged capability with everyday comfort.

The timing of discussing the Pajero Sport feels particularly relevant with major regional events like the SEA Games approaching. These games create interesting transportation challenges across Thailand, where organizers need reliable vehicles that can handle everything from urban congestion to rural access roads. The 2016 Pajero Sport's 2.4-liter diesel engine produces 178 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque, numbers that still compete respectably with newer models in its class. What impressed me most during my extended test drives was the fuel efficiency – I consistently achieved around 12.5 km/l in mixed driving conditions, though your results might vary depending on driving style and maintenance history.

From a practical standpoint, the interior space measures 1,835 mm in width and 1,850 mm in length, providing ample room for seven passengers. I've personally used it to transport sports equipment for regional tournaments, and the cargo capacity surpasses many modern counterparts when the third row is folded down. The infotainment system does show its age, lacking the smartphone integration we've come to expect, but the basic functionality remains solid. During a particularly memorable trip to survey potential venues for the SEA Games, the Super Select 4WD-II system handled muddy construction sites and uneven terrain with an assurance that made me question whether newer, more expensive SUVs could do any better.

Maintenance costs represent one of the Pajero Sport's strongest selling points. Based on data from Thai dealerships and my own ownership experience, annual maintenance typically runs about 15-20% cheaper than comparable 2016 SUVs from European manufacturers. Parts availability remains excellent throughout Southeast Asia, with wait times for common components rarely exceeding 48 hours in major cities. The timing chain rather than belt design also reduces long-term maintenance headaches, though I'd still recommend checking service records for any vehicle you're considering.

The suspension tuning deserves special mention. Mitsubishi engineered it specifically for Southeast Asian road conditions, which means it absorbs potholes and uneven surfaces better than many luxury SUVs costing twice as much. I've driven this model on everything from perfectly paved expressways to rural Thai roads that haven't been properly maintained in years, and the comfort level remains consistently impressive. The steering provides decent feedback without being overly heavy, making urban maneuvering surprisingly manageable despite the vehicle's substantial dimensions.

There are certainly compromises. The safety features feel dated compared to modern standards, offering only two airbags in base models versus the six or more found in newer vehicles. The 5-speed automatic transmission sometimes hunts for gears on steep inclines, though I found manual mode effectively addresses this issue. Road noise becomes noticeable at speeds above 100 km/h, particularly on coarse asphalt surfaces common in regional highways. These shortcomings need weighing against the vehicle's proven reliability and lower ownership costs.

Considering current market prices, a well-maintained 2016 Pajero Sport typically sells for between ฿650,000 to ฿850,000 in Thailand, representing approximately 45-50% of its original retail value. This depreciation curve compares favorably with competitors, many of which have lost 60% or more of their value over the same period. For buyers prioritizing mechanical robustness over cutting-edge technology, this represents compelling value. The diesel engine's reputation for reaching 300,000 km with proper maintenance adds to the long-term ownership proposition.

Having driven the latest SUV models back-to-back with the 2016 Pajero Sport, I still find myself recommending it to certain buyers. If your priorities include proven reliability, lower running costs, and genuine off-road capability, this seven-year-old design continues to deliver where it matters most. The timing of the SEA Games reminds us that practical, dependable transportation remains crucial across our region's diverse landscapes and road conditions. While I wouldn't choose it as my primary vehicle for extensive highway travel, for mixed-use scenarios common throughout Southeast Asia, the 2016 Pajero Sport maintains relevance that newer, more sophisticated SUVs sometimes struggle to match.