The Mitsubishi 6G72 (SOHC 24V) is a 2,972 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1986 and 05. It features a single overhead camshaft per bank (SOHC), 24 valves, and multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 125–147 kW (170–200 PS) and 255–280 Nm of torque, balancing smooth power delivery with refined mid‑range response for executive and utility applications.
Fitted to models such as the Pajero, Galant, and Diamante, the 6G72 SOHC 24V wa…
Production years 1986–1995 meet pre‑Euro standards; 1996–2005 models meet Euro 2 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2018).
The Mitsubishi 6G72 (SOHC 24V) is a 2,972 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans, SUVs, and coupes (1986–2005). It combines a cast‑iron block with aluminum SOHC heads and sequential multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth power delivery and refined operation. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards in its final production phase, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,972 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
Configuration | V6, SOHC, 24‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 82.0 mm | |
Power output | 125–147 kW (170–200 PS) @ 5,000–5,500 rpm | |
Torque | 255–280 Nm @ 4,000–4,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point fuel injection (MPI) | |
Emissions standard | Pre‑Euro (1986–1995); Euro 2 (1996–2005) | |
Compression ratio | 9.0:1 – 9.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Belt‑driven camshafts (service interval: 90,000 km) | |
Oil type | Mitsubishi MTF‑04 or API SH/SG (SAE 10W‑40) | |
Dry weight | 168 kg |
The Mitsubishi 6G72 (SOHC 24V) was used across Mitsubishi's Pajero, Galant, and Diamante platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced sump in the Pajero and modified intake manifolds in the Diamante Sigma—and from 1995 the updated HLA design improved valvetrain reliability, creating minor interchange limits for cylinder head components. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The 6G72 (SOHC 24V)'s primary reliability risk is hydraulic lash adjuster (HLA) wear on pre‑1995 builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Mitsubishi internal data from 1997 indicated a notable share of early Pajero and Diamante units required HLA replacement before 130,000 km, while UK DVSA records show minimal emissions-related MOT failures due to robust catalytic converter design. Extended oil intervals and use of non-spec oil increase HLA clogging risk, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (1991–2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The 6G72 SOHC 24V is generally reliable with proper maintenance. Early models (1986–1994) had HLA wear issues, but post-1995 revisions improved durability. Its cast-iron block and lack of turbo reduce major failure risks. Using correct 10W-40 oil and adhering to service intervals greatly enhances longevity.
Top issues include hydraulic lash adjuster failure (pre-1995), timing belt breakage from missed service, intake runner sticking due to carbon, and valve cover oil leaks. These are documented in Mitsubishi TSB-ME-91-022 and owner service records. Most are preventable with regular oil changes and coolant inspections.
The 6G72 SOHC 24V powered the Pajero/Shogun (1986–2000), Galant (1987–1993), Diamante (1990–1995), and Debonair (1992–1999) in 3.0L variants. All applications are longitudinal, with Euro 2 compliance only in 1996–2005 export models.
Limited tuning potential due to SOHC design. ECU remaps yield modest gains (+8–12 kW) but require high-octane fuel. Forced induction is possible but demands internal upgrades. Most owners prioritize smoothness over power; stage 1 tuning is uncommon and not supported by Mitsubishi.
Moderate for a V6. In a Pajero 3.0 V6 GLS, expect ~12.8 L/100km (city) and ~9.2 L/100km (highway), or ~24 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 22–26 mpg (UK), depending on condition and driving style. The 24-valve head improves efficiency over 12-valve variants.
Yes. The 6G72 SOHC 24V is an interference engine. If the timing belt were to fail, piston-to-valve contact would cause severe internal damage. However, the belt is robust and designed to last 90,000 km under normal conditions—making timely replacement critical.
Mitsubishi specifies 10W-40 mineral or synthetic oil meeting API SH/SG or Mitsubishi MTF-04 standards. Always use oil designed for hydraulic lifters. Change every 15,000 km or 12 months to prevent HLA clogging and ensure valve train protection.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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MITSUBISHI Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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