Salaam! Ever since I acquired my Pajero, I wanted to put it to test but couldn't due to time constraints until last weekend. I decided to test it's mettle, hence took two friends and set off to Banjosa Lake and Toli Pir. The test was mainly for the following aspects: A) Dependability for long distances, B) Efficiency in terms of fuel economy and comfort for long travelling, C) Ability to drive in mountains with tough terrain. Following are the statistics:
1) Fuel Topped up from TOTAL Station at Thokar
2) Topped up again at Attock FS on Kahuta Road after 287 km ---29.18L (This was GT Road with 3 passengers and AC) AVE 9.84 kmpl
3) Topped up again at Attock FS on Kahuta Road after 250 km ---36L (This was mostly mountain region from Kahuta to Rawlakot, Khaigella, Banjosa, Khaigella, Toli Pir, Khaigella, Rawlakot and back to Kahuta. I think during this stretch, I hardly used 5th Gear, most of the travel was in 2nd and 3rd gears with some very steep roads) AVE 6.94 kmpl
4) Topped up in Lahore from TOTAL LDA Johar Town after 305 km ---28 Liters. This was downhill GT Road Travel with 3 passengers and AC, but comparatively more crowded than the uphill travel. AVE 10.89 kmpl
Total distance travelled 842 km, Total Fuel consumed, 93.18 liters. Overall AVE 9.04 kmpl.
The overall performance of the car was above satisfactory, except for some lack of power at the steepest climbs of Toli Pir where we had to switch off the AC. Rest was flawless. Comfort wise it was outstanding. No heat ups, the coolant level remained at the MAX Level throughout the journey, though I checked it every now and then.
The second disadvantage, other than lack of power for steep climbs was top speed restriction to 95 km/hr at 3000 rpm. Quite frustrating for long journeys for people who are used to finish M2 in 2.5 hours (Toll to Toll without any stops). Will have to think about it seriously.
As far as the destinations are concerned, I was extremely disappointed. It is however my and my companions' personal opinion. Both Banjosa Lake and Toli Pir disappointed us big time. If someone asked me, I would never recommend travelling all the way from Lahore to any of these destinations.
Here are some of the pics taken by a mobile phone camera. Feedback welcome!
