The Mitsubishi 6G72 (SOHC 12V) is a 2,972 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1986 and 1999. It features a single overhead camshaft per bank (SOHC), 12 valves total, and a cast‑iron block with aluminum cylinder heads. In standard form it delivered 103–125 kW (140–170 PS) with torque figures between 230–255 Nm, optimized for smooth highway cruising and light towing capability.
Fitted to models such as the Debonair, Galant VR-4 (early), Pajero/Montero (V20/V30), and Diamante, the 6G72 (SOHC 12V) was engineered as Mitsubishi’s mainstream V6 for luxury sedans and rugged SUVs. Emissions compliance was achieved through multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) and electronic throttle control, allowing pre-Euro and Euro 1 compliance in later European variants.
One documented concern is head gasket failure in high-mileage or overheated units, particularly in Pajero applications with heavy off‑road use, highlighted in Mitsubishi Engineering Report #MER‑6G72‑91. This issue stems from thermal stress at the rear cylinder banks due to limited coolant flow in early casting designs.
Production years 1986–1991 meet pre-Euro standards; 1992–1999 models meet Euro 1 depending on market (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/1872).
The Mitsubishi 6G72 (SOHC 12V) is a 2,972 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for luxury sedans and full-size SUVs (1986–1999). It combines SOHC 12-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth torque delivery and mechanical simplicity. Designed to meet pre-Euro and Euro 1 emissions standards, it prioritizes durability and serviceability over high performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,972 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | V6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103–125 kW (140–170 PS) @ 5,000–5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 230–255 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (1986–1991); Euro 1 (1992–1999) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.9:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven SOHC (two belts) | |
| Oil type | Mitsubishi Motors Genuine Oil 10W‑30 (API SG/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The SOHC 12-valve V6 layout offers smooth operation and mechanical simplicity but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals using 10W-30 oil meeting API SG/CC to prevent sludge and bearing wear. Extended high-load operation in hot climates accelerates head gasket degradation—especially in pre-1992 Pajero units. The dual-belt valvetrain must be replaced every 80,000 km; the 6G72 (SOHC 12V) is a non-interference engine, so belt failure halts operation without internal damage. Revised coolant jackets from 1992 onward improved head gasket longevity per Mitsubishi Engineering Report #MER-6G72-91.
Oil Specs: Requires Mitsubishi Motors Genuine Oil 10W-30 meeting API SG/CC (Mitsubishi Service Bulletin TSB-LU-90-002).
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1992–1999 MPFI models only (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/1872). Pre-1992 variants are pre-regulation.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Power output varies by application (sedan vs. SUV) and ECU calibration (Mitsubishi TIS Doc. ME-6G72-03).
Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ME-6G72-01, ME-6G72-02, ME-6G72-03
JAMA Type Approval Database (JAMA/EMS/1872)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Mitsubishi 6G72 (SOHC 12V) was used across Mitsubishi's V20/E38 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Pajero and revised intake manifolds in the Diamante-and from 1992 the facelifted Galant adopted updated coolant jackets, 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-6G72-02). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('2' for 3.0L V6 6G72). Early models (1986–1991) have silver valve covers with black intake manifolds; post-1992 units use all-black covers. Critical differentiation from DOHC 24V 6G72: SOHC 12V has one cam per bank and 2 intake runners per cylinder bank; DOHC has 4 cams and individual runners. Head gasket and timing belt kits differ significantly per Mitsubishi Engineering Report #MER-6G72-91.
The 6G72 (SOHC 12V)'s primary reliability risk is head gasket failure in high-mileage or thermally stressed units, with elevated incidence in off-road Pajero applications. Mitsubishi internal data cited in Engineering Report #MER‑6G72‑91 noted measurable coolant leakage at rear cylinder banks in engines exceeding 180,000 km without cooling maintenance, while JAMA field reports confirmed overheating as a leading cause of premature gasket degradation. Extended idling and coolant neglect increase thermal cycling stress, making cooling system integrity critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi engineering reports (1991–1996) and JAMA failure statistics (1992–2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MITSUBISHI 6G72-SOHC-12V.
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