The Mitsubishi Pajero Sport is a rugged wagon that is very good off road but comfortable – and easy to drive – on the road. There are five-seat and seven-seat versions, both offering excellent fuel economy from a modern diesel engine and an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
Pros Excellent value for money, auto braking as standard
Cons Relatively cosy cabin, poor third-row head room
Mitsubishi has given its Pajero Sport large 4WD an update for the 2020 model year, adding further ammunition with which to battle the Ford Everest, Isuzu MU-X, Toyota Fortuner, and Holden Trailblazer. Like the MY19 Triton ute upgrade (the Pajero Sport shares much of the pickup's running gear), the revised SUV looks tougher thanks to its 'dynamic shield' grille and headlight combination, higher bonnet, and new running lights and bumpers.The polarising old vertically-arrayed tail lights have been reduced in size and the bumper made larger. The alloy wheel design is new, and side steps are apparently slightly higher-mounted to bolster ground clearance.
Having reviewed the GX, this time we take a look at the 2021 Toyota Fortuner GXL. It's a rugged 4WD that positions itself as the default family option for those whose budget can't stretch to the Prado.
Pros Ride quality is excellent on any road surface Power and torque increases translate to the real world Cabin ergonomics are solid and build quality is robust
Cons Needs more power outlets, especially in the second row Third row should be viewed as occasional only GXL is a steep climb in price from the GX, which remains solid value
PROS Gutsier updated diesel engine Nicer screen, now gets phone mirroring Toyota's most affordable proper 4x4
Cons Clumsy third-row seat stowage Firm, sometimes unsettled ride Short six-month service intervals
