# Mitsubishi Pajero — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Mitsubishi Pajero on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/mitsubishi-pajero

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2013
- **Ideal trim**: SG3
- **Target mileage**: 70,000–100,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 4
- **Target price**: £11,500

## Why this model

The Mitsubishi Pajero (often sold as Shogun in the UK) is a fantastic choice if you need a seriously capable, no-nonsense 4x4. It's built like a tank, incredibly reliable if looked after, and brilliant for towing or serious off-roading. While it might lack the modern tech and refinement of newer SUVs, its rugged durability and spacious interior make it a practical workhorse. It's also a bit of a cult classic, so well-maintained examples hold their value reasonably well at this age.

## What you should pay

Prices for the Pajero/Shogun vary quite a bit depending on condition, mileage, and service history. For a 2012-2015 model, you're looking at a range of £8,000 to £15,000. The market is quite stable for these older, robust 4x4s, as they fill a niche that modern SUVs often can't. Be prepared to pay a premium for lower mileage or a full service history.

## Which trim to buy

The SG3 trim hits the sweet spot for the Pajero. It adds desirable features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, satellite navigation, and a reversing camera over the base SG2, without jumping to the top-tier SG4's higher price tag. You get a much more comfortable and convenient experience for not a huge amount more money, making it the best value for daily driving and longer trips.

## What to check before you buy

- Rust on chassis and bodywork (especially older models)
- Automatic gearbox issues (check for smooth shifts)
- DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) problems if mainly used for short journeys
- Injector seals and fuel pump issues on high mileage examples
- Suspension bushes and components wear

## Running costs

Running a Pajero means embracing its rugged nature. Fuel costs for the 3.2 Di-D diesel engine will be around 26-29 pence per mile, based on current diesel prices and real-world MPG. Road tax (VED) for a 2013 model will be high, typically £360-£675 per year depending on the exact CO2 band. Insurance will be moderate to high, likely in groups 30-35. Maintenance costs can be reasonable if you find a good independent specialist, but parts for a 4x4 can be pricier than a standard car.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Diesel
- **Horsepower**: 197 hp
- **Mpg**: 28-32 mpg (combined)
- **Reliability Score**: Good (for a rugged 4x4, dependent on maintenance)
- **Safety Rating**: 4-star Euro NCAP (2006 rating, dated by modern standards)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| SG2 | £30,000 | £9,000 | 17-inch alloy wheels; Climate control; Electric windows |
| SG3 | £34,000 | £11,500 | 18-inch alloy wheels; Leather upholstery; Heated front seats |
| SG4 | £38,000 | £13,500 | 18-inch alloy wheels (unique design); Premium Rockford Fosgate sound system; Electric sunroof |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £11,500 | 0% |
| 2027 | £11,000 | 4.3% |
| 2028 | £10,500 | 4.5% |
| 2029 | £10,000 | 4.8% |
| 2030 | £9,500 | 5% |

The Pajero has already gone through its steepest depreciation curve. Buying a 2013 model now means you're getting it at a point where its value loss will be much slower in the coming years. You're essentially buying into a stable, niche market for capable 4x4s, so your future depreciation will be minimal in absolute terms.

Total value lost since new: 70%.

## Alternatives to consider

- [Toyota Land Cruiser](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/toyota-land-cruiser.md)
- Land Rover Discovery 4
- Nissan Patrol

---

Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.