2008-2015 Mitsubishi Challenger Review

The Mitsubishi Challenger is somewhat the shy cousin in the Mitsubishi range. Thanks to popular models like the Triton and Outlander, the Challenger feels somewhat stuck in the middle.

It shares the same, very capable, 4x4 platform as the Triton but has the promise of a more refined ride and level of comfort that should accommodate families easily. Plus having only the option of a 131kW/400Nm (131kW/400Nm auto) diesel engine makes the buying decision that much easier. 

When it comes to levels of comfort there were two options available, the 4WD Challenger and 4WD LS Challenger. Standard for the entry-level model is 16inch-alloy wheels, reverse camera, rear parking sensors, and climate-control air-con.

In the 4WD LS model you gain larger alloy wheels, leather seat facings, 8-way power front seats, rain sensing wipers and dusk sensing headlamps.

So, with the formal paper specs out of the way does the Mitsubishi claim of it having city style but is country tough hold up?

INITIAL IMPRESSION​

There’s no denying that the Mitsubishi Challenger is a big 4WD. There is no way you’ll lose this in a busy car park.

Interior styling is aimed at being highly functional and hardwearing – perfect for families. For the driver, the driving position is great and everything can be reached quickly and easily.

What is also very noticeable is the sheer amount of cabin space for both front and rear passengers. Plus, with the rear seats folded flat there is a whopping 1813litres of storage space on offer.

Unfortunately, no keyless entry or start systems are available, but there other comfort features like Bluetooth audio and phone capabilities and steering wheel controls are good trade-offs here.

DRIVABILITY​

When out on the road in the Challenger, you’ll quickly fall in love with its high driving position and the extra line of sight that it is able to provide you as a driver.  The inclusion of large side mirrors also do a good job at eliminating troublesome blind spots, reducing the need of a blind spot monitoring system all-together.

Thanks to the large amount of torque, and very forgiving manual transmission getting around is a breeze and power delivery is strong from very early on in the rev range. If you aren’t used to driving a 4WD like this, you’ll find it no trouble to adapt at all.

Compared to the Triton, the ride noise and road feel has been dramatically improved and refined to better accommodate its passenger oriented purpose, and there is no sacrifice in its potential for off-road adventures.

Thanks to it’s great suspension articulation and reasonable approach and departure angles or 35 and 26 degrees respectively, you’ll find very little trouble when venturing off the beaten track.

PRACTICALITY​

If you are looking for a large 4WD, but don’t have the need for 7 seats, the Challenger should be high on your shopping list.

In overseas markets, the Challenger is sold as a 7 seat 4WD, but is only sold as a 5 seat vehicle here in Australia. What this means is that buyers gain the space normally needed to store or hideaway an extra set of seats when not in use.

Compared to other 4WD’s on the market, the rear cargo space is significantly longer, and taller than what is available. This makes the Challenger perfect for the family who loves their camping trips or for the couple who loves the outdoors and their activities.

Plus, the inclusion of rear parking sensors and reversing camera makes getting in and out of tight car spaces much easier and stress free.

COST​

Pricing for the Mitsubishi Challenger is aimed to target those conscious of their budgets, but wanting to still find a very capable and comfortable 4WD.

Currently, you are able to find yourself in an entry-level 4WD Challenger around the $40k mark. For the 4WD LS Challenger with the extra features, you are in the mid $40k area.

Included in this price is Mitsubishi’s hard to beat 5 Year/130,000km Warranty plus a 5 Year Perforation Corrosion Warranty. Additionally, Capped Price Servicing is available for the first 4 years of scheduled services priced at just $580 per year.

CONCLUSION

Whilst you may or may not be familiar with the Challenger name, we’ve found it to make a brilliant case for those looking for a family 4WD that offers a huge amount of space for passengers and cargo.

Off-road, the Challenger is the pick from the Mitsubishi range, and its on road handling is also as both a 4WD and a family car.

There’s a supreme amount of cabin space for all passengers plus their luggage and its on road look and feel is quite good when you keep its 4WD capabilities/design in mind.