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General => General Discussion => Topic started by: mcbadger2 on May 05, 2011, 03:48:37 PM

Title: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: mcbadger2 on May 05, 2011, 03:48:37 PM
Hi swaggers,

The time is nearly here for the company car (Commodore) to disapear and finally get a 4wd. Would have loved a Pajero but the $ wouldn't stretch.
The other option I am looking into is the LS Challenger. Will be towing a 2011 Swan when the blody thing arrives.
Would love to hear any comments on owners of the current Challenger with good / bad impressions of the vehicle.
Look forward to some replies.

Regards


Mark
 
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: WilSurf on May 05, 2011, 03:56:48 PM
I have heard that the new model diesel version are having problems.
Only dealerships are driving them and they are returning them to the factory.
Don't know why.
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: mccrlc on May 05, 2011, 05:02:52 PM
We have a 2010 LS Challenger and we think it's great.  :cup:
A good all rounder in my opinion, able to tow our Jayco Eagle outback with no problems at all, the boat, good in the bush (not that I have done a lot but the bit I have done it performed well) and the missus loves driving it, when I let her. :laugh:
I'd buy another, let's put it that way.
 :cheers:
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: Bushman on May 05, 2011, 05:28:53 PM
Gronk also has one, I'm sure he'll be along to share his thoughts
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: gronk on May 05, 2011, 11:48:41 PM
I have heard that the new model diesel version are having problems.
Only dealerships are driving them and they are returning them to the factory.
Don't know why.

Have been lurking around a Challenger forum and haven't heard of many having problems...one problem was with a power steering hose connection, but mine has been in for 2 services and hasn't had a spanner on it yet !!

Depends on what you want a 4wd to do....if I only wanted to tow on the black top ( and could afford it ) I would have a Pajero....just a nicer car to drive..

But as I also like to go offroad, the Challenger is my choice....and a better 4wd off road to boot than the Paj....diff lock standard, better departure angles and smaller and narrower..

Bad points....engine noise ( if you like the auto )....probably a bit more "truck" like compared to a Paj or Prado
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: SteveandViv on May 06, 2011, 12:00:22 AM
Have been lurking around a Challenger forum and haven't heard of many having problems...one problem was with a power steering hose connection, but mine has been in for 2 services and hasn't had a spanner on it yet !!

Depends on what you want a 4wd to do....if I only wanted to tow on the black top ( and could afford it ) I would have a Pajero....just a nicer car to drive..

But as I also like to go offroad, the Challenger is my choice....and a better 4wd off road to boot than the Paj....diff lock standard, better departure angles and smaller and narrower..

Bad points....engine noise ( if you like the auto )....probably a bit more "truck" like compared to a Paj or Prado

and a better 4wd off road to boot than the Paj  ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ???
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: gronk on May 06, 2011, 12:16:34 PM
and a better 4wd off road to boot than the Paj  ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ???


 ;D ;D   yep !!    8) 8)

Has the same super select etc as the Paj, and even if the Paj has a diff lock , the Challenger has better departure angles and less overhangs..  sorry , but the Paj comes out 2nd !!
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: GU Rich on May 06, 2011, 12:38:05 PM
There is a challenger at the kids Kinder, It was the deveoplmewnt vehicle for Kaymar, Safari and a few other places. When I say development vehicle they used it for a template. It's running MTZ's and looks like a very tidy unit.

I agree with Gronk on the departure angles.

What sort of $$ are they new?

Rich
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: gronk on May 06, 2011, 01:12:51 PM
There is a challenger at the kids Kinder, It was the deveoplmewnt vehicle for Kaymar, Safari and a few other places. When I say development vehicle they used it for a template. It's running MTZ's and looks like a very tidy unit.

I agree with Gronk on the departure angles.

What sort of $$ are they new?

Rich

The new base model ( 16 instead of 17 " rims , no side air bags, less bling ) is $39,990 driveaway...

The middle of the range can be had for approx low to mid 40K
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: GU Rich on May 06, 2011, 01:50:07 PM
The new base model ( 16 instead of 17 " rims , no side air bags, less bling ) is $39,990 driveaway...

The middle of the range can be had for approx low to mid 40K
Cheers Gronk.

rich
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: mcbadger2 on May 06, 2011, 02:44:24 PM
Thanks all for your input. I would be looking around mid 40's hopefully for the LS model. I have read some reviews on line and the noise issue seems to have been rectified with the 2011 model.

Will keep you posted when i get it.

Cheers


Mark
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: cancan on May 06, 2011, 03:30:39 PM
I just took an auto for a test drive and thought it drove well, a bit under powered but then I am not used to a diesel and it has been a while since I drove a non european car.
I have been looking at a couple of options when our cars are out of warranty and one option was to buy a ute just for towing the CT but the Challenger seems a better option and around the same money although my budget depends on how much the wife spends on her car and how much she leaves for me.
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: jimsiron on May 06, 2011, 07:52:09 PM
I have an MY10 manual Challenger LS and tows our Swan with ease. Hopefully will tow our new Discovery outback as well when we pick it up! We have had no problems at all with our Challenger in 18000 km, engine noise is not that bad, remembering it is a diesel and a work horse not a town car.
regards
Jimsiron
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: cruza driver on May 06, 2011, 08:00:54 PM
Interesting thread I like the look and of these, they seem like a great alternative to say a 2nd hand Prado thats a few years old for similar money.  :cheers:

What economy are is everyone roughly getting?
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: SteveandViv on May 06, 2011, 08:19:12 PM

 ;D ;D   yep !!    8) 8)

Has the same super select etc as the Paj, and even if the Paj has a diff lock , the Challenger has better departure angles and less overhangs..  sorry , but the Paj comes out 2nd !!

I see a challenge coming up Gronk followed by heaps of beer as you thank me again and again for rescuing your $%$&  ;D

Actually I think the Challengers are cool. Hadn't looked at the departure angles. No matter they are a Mits and bloody brillian, best 4WD ever... Now that should get all the Nissan & Toyota users fired up  :cheers:
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: SteveandViv on May 06, 2011, 08:21:01 PM
There is a challenger at the kids Kinder, It was the deveoplmewnt vehicle for Kaymar, Safari and a few other places. When I say development vehicle they used it for a template. It's running MTZ's and looks like a very tidy unit.

I agree with Gronk on the departure angles.

What sort of $$ are they new?

Rich

Rich, you drive a Nissan for gods sake. Your not allowed to take sides - Geez mate... ;D
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: darren on May 06, 2011, 08:22:58 PM
Gronks sigma is a nice little thing. They need to put a bit of effort into the towbar though.
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: GU Rich on May 06, 2011, 09:32:11 PM
Gronks sigma is a nice little thing. They need to put a bit of effort into the towbar though.
The one at the kinder has a Kaymar Rear Bar fitted, Long Range tanks,snorkel, lift, bullbar


I'll try and snap a pic of it.

Rich
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: gronk on May 06, 2011, 10:24:16 PM
The one at the kinder has a Kaymar Rear Bar fitted, Long Range tanks,snorkel, lift, bullbar


I'll try and snap a pic of it.

Rich

the same bloke is on the Pajero forum....a white one I believe ??

Darren , I took the Mitsu bar off and whacked a Hayman Reece on....heaps more departure angle now !!
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: SteveandViv on May 06, 2011, 11:58:22 PM
the same bloke is on the Pajero forum....a white one I believe ??

Darren , I took the Mitsu bar off and whacked a Hayman Reece on....heaps more departure angle now !!

Gronk. (and this is just for fun) How can you get better departure angle with that tyre under the bum, does that not hinder at all ??? looks smart though. What sort of bucks if you can give a rough $$ amount.

I'm looking for options now after some one at the Visitors Centre car park decided it would be fun to run up the *Beep* of ours yesterday  >:D. Bent the real wheel carrier down a bit but all's good for the Cape. Got me thinking though, what could I claim  8)
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: GU Rich on May 07, 2011, 12:03:29 AM
Gronk. (and this is just for fun) How can you get better departure angle with that tyre under the bum, does that not hinder at all ??? looks smart though. What sort of bucks if you can give a rough $$ amount.

I'm looking for options now after some one at the Visitors Centre car park decided it would be fun to run up the *Beep* of ours yesterday  >:D. Bent the real wheel carrier down a bit but all's good for the Cape. Got me thinking though, what could I claim  8)

Bugger Steve.
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: SteveandViv on May 07, 2011, 12:17:16 AM
Bugger Steve.

Yes mate. Was in the back car park, you'd know where and Viv had reversed out and was in first when they came around the corner and *wham*. They must have not been paying attention as they tried to swerve away from Viv and ended up taking out their left hand panel, lights etc. Just P'ees me off that they even go that fast in a car park. There not insured and had the hide to ask how they could claim on our insurance. Yes they are dreaming and being native - well there you go.....
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: speewa158 on May 07, 2011, 06:14:43 AM
Steve don't get to excited about Gronk & his Magna wagon , I believe he wants a Paj . If he washes the rig & leaves it in the sun it may grow up to be a Paj 1 day . It has a fine pedigree though .
As long as it dose the job for you it ideal , ;D
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: darren on May 07, 2011, 06:27:35 AM
the same bloke is on the Pajero forum....a white one I believe ??

Darren , I took the Mitsu bar off and whacked a Hayman Reece on....heaps more departure angle now !!

Your right mate that looks heaps better. I cant believe the OEM would supply a 1974 towbar..
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: Crookedpete on May 08, 2011, 08:21:56 PM
We upgraded?? from a Challenger to a Pajero. This was  mostly because we tend to take everything including the kitchen sink when we travel and we could no longer fit into the Challenger as the family grew (now 3 kids and the dishlicker).

We loved our Challenger. It was very comfortable around town and definitely more capable off road than the Pajero.

Pete
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: Jon on May 08, 2011, 08:26:32 PM
Steve don't get to excited about Gronk & his Magna wagon , I believe he wants a Paj . If he washes the rig & leaves it in the sun it may grow up to be a Paj 1 day . It has a fine pedigree though .

If he uses hot water it may shrink and he will end up with an Outlander ;D
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: gronk on May 09, 2011, 09:39:10 AM
If he uses hot water it may shrink and he will end up with an Outlander ;D

Now thats my sort of car !!!!!

An Outlander with the 3.2 diesel, diff locks and a 2" lift !!! ;D
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: Redback on May 09, 2011, 10:03:31 AM
I want to know about these problems that are happening to the new Challenger Willsurf, as far as I'm aware there haven't been any that I have heard of.

I'm trying to convince the daughter to get one (she wants a 4WD) at the moment she wants a Range Rover L322 HSE ::)

Best part about the Challenger is it's available in manual.

Baz.
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: gronk on May 09, 2011, 11:23:50 AM
I want to know about these problems that are happening to the new Challenger Willsurf, as far as I'm aware there haven't been any that I have heard of.

I'm trying to convince the daughter to get one (she wants a 4WD) at the moment she wants a Range Rover L322 HSE ::)

Best part about the Challenger is it's available in manual.

Baz.

Baz, I frequent the Pajero forum ( has a Challenger sub section ) and haven't heard of any major problems with the Challenger ?

Couple of limp mode complaints, couple of power steering pipes coming loose, one had a turbo replaced......

Manuals are probably fairly hard to come by ( talking used ) but you really have to drive each to see what suits .....I didn't like the auto, cause of the way they always rev and the noise was not to my liking, but the manual does suffer from turbo lag below 2000rpm ( nearly completely fixed with a Chip It chip )

About the only things that could prise me away from the Challenger would be a fully kitted 76 series or a 200 series ( but can't afford either !! )
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: Redback on May 09, 2011, 01:04:38 PM
Baz, I frequent the Pajero forum ( has a Challenger sub section ) and haven't heard of any major problems with the Challenger ?

Couple of limp mode complaints, couple of power steering pipes coming loose, one had a turbo replaced......

Manuals are probably fairly hard to come by ( talking used ) but you really have to drive each to see what suits .....I didn't like the auto, cause of the way they always rev and the noise was not to my liking, but the manual does suffer from turbo lag below 2000rpm ( nearly completely fixed with a Chip It chip )

About the only things that could prise me away from the Challenger would be a fully kitted 76 series or a 200 series ( but can't afford either !! )

Howard gave me a drive of his new 79 series V8, very nice, could almost convert me away from Land Rovers ;D
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: WilSurf on May 09, 2011, 02:05:35 PM
A mate of mine went to the dealership and they told him that.
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: tonyw on May 09, 2011, 05:08:03 PM
A mate of mine went to the dealership and they told him that.

Hmm i deal with a few Mits dealers and because the Challenger is on my look at list as a new car i have been dropping the question to the PD and service guys and not hearing anything like that coming back, actually getting a fair bit of praise. Maybe it was just one dealer got a lemon?
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: WilSurf on May 09, 2011, 05:11:30 PM
No idea, will talk to him tonight.
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: mrdenn1s on August 29, 2012, 08:24:42 PM
went and looked at an LS Challenger today vs a demo GLX Paj.

For the extra coin for the Paj, all you get is a bit more space but it seems worse ability off road (IRS vs Live axel on the Challenger)

Also, Challenger has so much more kit (Bluetooth, reversing camera, etc)

Think the Challenger is my next vehicle, although the 50Nm reduction in auto bothers me somewhat
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: gronk on August 29, 2012, 10:09:04 PM
went and looked at an LS Challenger today vs a demo GLX Paj.

For the extra coin for the Paj, all you get is a bit more space but it seems worse ability off road (IRS vs Live axel on the Challenger)

Also, Challenger has so much more kit (Bluetooth, reversing camera, etc)

Think the Challenger is my next vehicle, although the 50Nm reduction in auto bothers me somewhat

I think if you drove them back to back, you'd be hard pressed to notice the 50Nm.....if you look at the torque curves, the auto doesn't lose out all the way thru the curve....only for a short period..
Title: Re: Mitsubishi Challenger
Post by: mrdenn1s on August 30, 2012, 07:52:14 AM
True. I just checked the respective marketing material. Torque curve on the challenger is more of a straight line. Very flat. Paj is very peaky. Challenger torque curve in the manual also peaky.