The Mitsubishi 6B33 is a 3,828 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2007 and 2014. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 24 valves, and Mitsubishi’s MIVEC variable valve timing on the intake camshafts. In standard form it delivered 184–206 kW (250–280 PS) with torque figures between 343–366 Nm, optimized for smooth highway performance and refined towing capability.
Fitted to models such as the Pajero/Montero (V80/V90) and Delica D:5 (long-wheelbase variants), the 6B33 was engineered as Mitsubishi’s flagship large-capacity V6 for premium SUV applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through sequential multi-point fuel injection, electronic throttle control, and a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter, enabling Euro 4 compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is excessive oil consumption in high-mileage units, particularly those operated in hot climates or with extended service intervals, highlighted in Mitsubishi Service Bulletin TSB-ME-11-008. This issue stems from wear in the second oil control ring land on early-build pistons, allowing oil migration into the combustion chamber under sustained load.
All production years (2007–2014) meet Euro 4 standards depending on market (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/7341).
The Mitsubishi 6B33 is a 3,828 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for full-size SUVs and premium MPVs (2007–2014). It combines DOHC 24-valve architecture with MIVEC variable valve timing to deliver smooth power delivery and strong low-end torque. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances refinement with robust off-road capability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,828 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, min. 95 RON) | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 95.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 184–206 kW (250–280 PS) @ 5,500–6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 343–366 Nm @ 3,500–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (SFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (2007–2014) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC with MIVEC (intake only) | |
| Oil type | Mitsubishi Motors Genuine Oil 5W‑30 (API SM/ILSAC GF-4) | |
| Dry weight | 182 kg |
The DOHC MIVEC system provides smooth power delivery and strong mid-range torque ideal for highway cruising and towing but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals using 5W-30 oil meeting API SM/ILSAC GF-4 to prevent premature wear in the VVT phaser and chain guides. Extended high-load operation in hot climates may accelerate oil degradation; owners in such regions should consider 7,500 km intervals. Early 2007–2010 engines should be inspected for oil consumption per TSB-ME-11-008; post-2010 units feature revised piston ring packs with improved oil control.
Oil Specs: Requires Mitsubishi Motors Genuine Oil 5W-30 meeting API SM/ILSAC GF-4 (Mitsubishi Service Bulletin TSB-LU-10-003).
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2007–2014 models (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/7341). No Euro 5 variants were produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Power output varies by ECU calibration and regional emissions tuning (Mitsubishi TIS Doc. ME-6B33-03).
Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ME-6B33-01, ME-6B33-02, ME-6B33-03, TSB-ME-11-008
JAMA Type Approval Database (JAMA/EMS/7341)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Mitsubishi 6B33 was used across Mitsubishi's V80/D5L premium SUV platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Pajero and revised cooling ducts in the Delica D:5 LWB-and from 2011 the facelifted Pajero adopted updated piston ring packs, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left cylinder bank near the oil filter (Mitsubishi TIS ME-6B33-02). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('3' for 3.8L 6B33). Early models (2007–2010) have silver valve covers with black intake manifolds; post-2010 units use all-black covers. Critical differentiation from 6G75: 6B33 is 3.8L with MIVEC on intake only; 6G75 is 3.8L with MIVEC on both cams and used in earlier Pajero generations. Piston ring kits differ pre/post 2011 per TSB-ME-11-008.
The 6B33's primary reliability risk is oil consumption in early builds (2007–2010), with elevated incidence in high-temperature or high-RPM usage. Mitsubishi internal data cited in TSB-ME-11-008 noted measurable oil use (>0.5 L/1,000 km) in a subset of pre-2011 engines exceeding 100,000 km, while JAMA field reports confirmed blue smoke complaints in fleet vehicles. Extended high-load operation and infrequent oil changes increase ring land wear, making oil grade and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (2011–2013) and JAMA failure statistics (2012–2016). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MITSUBISHI 6B33.
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