Massilia Motors unveils Mitsubishi Pajero
Massilia Motors, major distributor of Mitsubishi brand of vehicles in Nigeria, has introduced the all-new Mitsubishi Pajero Sport in the local market.
The unveiling, which attracted auto journalists, customers, dealers and other stakeholders in the nation’s automotive industry created an ample opportunity for the motoring press to feel, observe and test-drive the new addition to the new vehicles in the country.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Managing Director of Massilia Motors, Mr. Kunle Jaiyesimi stated that Massilia Motors is optimistic that Nigeria is getting out of economic recession; and that is why the auto firm chose to inaugurate the Sports Utility Vehicle at this very period.
Jaiyesimi said that Mitsubishi Pajero has chances of doing well in the Nigerian market despite the economic challenges the country was facing. He therefore, urged those who need good and quality vehicles to ensure they patronize the brand.
Addressing stakeholders and their customers , Jaiyesimi said, “We are very appreciative of all our customers. We appreciate the fact that our customers stick to our brand. The whole essence of the launch is to reinforce our vision of becoming Nigerian auto leader with superior customer service”.
In his presentation, General Manager, Sales and Marketing, Navin Chander said that Massilia Motors believes in Nigeria and also feels that this is the real time to launch the vehicle into the local market.
Chander said that the motor company, being aware of the importance of after-sales services has equally made sure that issues arising from availability of the genuine spare parts are squally given serious attention.
To achieve this, he said that Massilia Motors has already sent their technical staff to Japan for training, as a way of solving after-sales issues.
He said that, although, the first and second generation of Mitsubishi Pajero was launched in 1996 and 2008 respectively, the all-new version launched recently has become necessary so that those in need of the brand can have access to it at the local market.
While not replacing the regular Mitsubishi Pajero, Chander pointed out that the new Mitsubishi Sport, which is still in the L200 platform is in a class of its own and a little different from the regular Pajero line. He further put a target of about 7 to 10 units of vehicle sale before the end of this year
Chander said “The world is yours in the new Pajero Sport. Whether confidently exploding rough terrain in the wilderness or attracting admiration on the city streets, you will be travelling first class all the way”.
“Discover the new look of 4WD luxury, boldly sculpted and stylishly accented, the assertive aerodynamic body delivers solid refinement down to the last detail-from dynamic shield front design concept to vibrant rear lamps. So you can seize every adventurous opportunity with style”, he added.
Other features of the new Pajero as highlighted by the GM include: Off Road Mode, Hill Start Assist, All Terrain Confidence, Active Stability &Traction Control, Class-Leading Turning Radius, 8-Speed Automatic Transmission, Paddle Shifters amongst others.
According to the GM, handling is stable and accurate on and off road, in all kinds of weather and driving conditions which is made possible by selected 2WD and 4WD modes, an off road mode that enhances traction on demanding surfaces, intelligent assistance in challenging conditions, an advanced suspension and outstanding all-round clearance”.
Chander further stated that, “using the drive mode selector dial, users can switch between 2WD (2H) and 4WD (4H,4HLc) with shift-on-the-fly convenience at up to 100km/h When the going gets tough, lock the centre differential by entering the 4HLc setting for rugged terrain or the 4LLc setting for inclines, mud, sand and snow”.
Describing how the Hill Descent Control (HDC) works, Chander said “Pressing the HDC mode selector activates HDC, which automatically applies the brakes to maintain your current speed when travelling downhill with greater safety without having to manually apply the brakes”.
On HAS, he said “When starting on a steep slope, HAS helps prevent you from rolling backwards while you release the brake by maintaining the braking force for up to two seconds until the accelerator is applied”.
The Active Stability and Traction Control (ASTC) also independently regulates braking force to the wheels during cornering to help maintain excellent vehicle stability when needed It also optimizes traction to prevent loss of torque whenever wheel spin is detected by controlling engine output and applying brake force to the spinning wheels.
The launch was well attended by Nigerian motoring journalists, who had a rigorous test-drive of the new Mitsubishi Pajero Sport for several hours. Others who were present include: dealers, customers and other stakeholders in the nation’s automobile industry.
Massilia Motors Limited is the sole distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in Nigeria, following the coming together of CFAO Motors and Kewalram Chanrai Group for this purpose.
The auto firm provides customers with Mitsubishi passenger cars, SUVs, pick-ups vans, spare parts and after-sales services across Nigeria. The head office located at Ijora Lagos is a major after-sales hub with a fully equipped workshop and qualified technicians.
The company’s vision is to become Nigeria’s leading automotive distributor with delivery of world class customer service. In addition, Massilia Motors Ltd. is set to ensure effective talent management that will result in motivated and customer oriented employees.
Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo
