Review: Mitsubishi PB Challenger (2009-13)

Overview

Released in December 2009, the Mitsubishi PB Challenger was a four-wheel drive wagon. Manufactured in Laem Chabang, Thailand, the Challenger was powered by a 2.5-litre common-rail, intercooled turbo-diesel engine (Mitubishi’s 4D45HP). The PB Challenger range initially consisted of LS and XLS variants.

In June 2010, the PB Challenger’s standard features were revised and, in March 2011, the range was expanded with the introduction of an unnamed, entry-level variant. From October 2011, this entry-level variant was available as a rear-wheel drive vehicle.

Based on the MN Triton utility , the Challenger had a ladder-frame chassis that was reinforced with high-strength steel. Furthermore, the PB Challenger was fitted with double wishbone front suspension and three-link rear suspension (both with coil springs, hydraulic shock absorbers and anti-roll bars). Compared to the PA Challenger , the PB Challenger was 165 mm longer (at 4695 mm), 40 mm wider (1815 mm), 110 mm taller (1840 mm) and had a 75 mm long wheelbase (2800 mm).

October 2012: Challenger update

In October 2012, the PB Challenger was updated and all vehicles had additional sound insulation for greater refinement. Standard safety equipment and features were also extended (detailed below).

Mitsubishi PB Challenger specifications
Variant	Seats	Drive	Year	Engine	Trans.	Peak power	Peak torque
N/A	5	RWD	2011-13	2.5-litre turbo-diesel I4	5sp man, 5sp auto	131 kW at 4000 rpm	400 Nm at 2000 rpm (man.)/ 350 Nm at 1800 rpm (auto)
N/A	5	4WD	2011-13
LS	5	4WD	2009-13
LS	7	4WD	2009-13	2.5-litre turbo-diesel I4	5sp auto	131 kW at 4000 rpm	350 Nm at 1800 rpm
XLS	5 or 7	4WD	2009-13	2.5-litre turbo-diesel I4	5sp auto	131 kW at 4000 rpm	350 Nm at 1800 rpm

4WD system

The Challenger was fitted with Mitsubishi’s Super Select 4WD system which included high- and low-range gear ratios, a centre differential with viscous coupling unit, a rear differential lock (except for the entry-level variant) and automatic free wheeling hubs. The Super Select system enabled the driver to select from the following modes –

2H: high-range two-wheel drive;
4H: high range full-time four wheel drive;
4HLC: high range gearing with a locked centre differential for fixed four-wheel drive; and,
4LLC: low range gearing with a locked centre differential for fixed four-wheel drive.

Safety equipment

Standard Challenger safety equipment included dual front airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters; the LS and XLS were further equipped with front side airbags and curtain airbags (for the front and second row occupants).

From October 2012, standard safety equipment was extended to include front side airbags and curtain airbags.

Features: Challenger, LS and XLS

Standard Challenger features included 16-inch alloy wheels, a four speaker sound system with CD player, MP3-compatiblity and auxiliary input, air conditioning, cruise control, remote central locking, 60/40 split and flat folding second row seats, power mirrors and windows, a tilt adjustable steering wheel, height adjustable driver’s seat, 12 volt power outlets, a trip computer and an immobiliser.

In October 2012, standard features were extended to include auxiliary inputs (USB/3.5 mm), Bluetooth 2.0 mobile phone connectivity and audio streaming, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls and roof rails. Four-wheel drive models were also fitted a reversing camera.

Compared to the standard Challenger, the Challenger LS was further equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, a six speaker sound system, climate control air conditioning, a leather-wrapped gearshift and hand brake, multi-function steering wheel and side steps; from June 2010, the LS was also fitted with Bluetooth connectivity. Where fitted, the third row of seats had a 50/50 split and folding operation. From October 2011, the LS was further equipped with a reversing camera and auxiliary USB input (the latter also extended to the XLS).

Initially, the Challenger XLS was differentiated by its 420 watt sound system with eight speakers, Mitsubishi Multi Communication System (MMCS) with satellite navigation, reversing camera and video jack, leather-faced seats, power adjustable driver’s seat, Bluetooth connectivity, front fog lamps, rear parking sensors, privacy glass and – for five-seat models – a rear cargo blind and net. In June 2010, however, the XLS’s features were revised – MMCS was made optional while a power adjustable front passenger seat, high intensity discharge (HID) headlights with washers, automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers were fitted as standard.

Challenger Enhancement Pack

From October 2012, the Challenge was available with an optional Enhancement Pack which included 17-inch alloy wheels, a six speaker sound system, climate control air conditioning, front fog lights, a reversing camera, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, a leather-wrapped park brake and gearshifter, power folding door mirrors and rear privacy glass. Exterior elements for the Enhancement Pack included a rear spoiler, body-coloured door mirrors and a unique radiator grille.

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