Mitsubishi CHALLENGER
2,593 registered in New Zealand · 1996–2016 · 70% from Japan
The Mitsubishi CHALLENGER is a recognisable name on New Zealand roads, with 2,593 registered across model years 1996 to 2016. It averages 10.3 L/100km in fuel consumption and produces an average of 114 kW. Most are diesel-powered station wagons with a 2.5L engine.
Below you'll find a complete breakdown of fuel types, body styles, drivetrain options, regional distribution, and estimated running costs. Select a specific model year to see detailed specs, buyer insights, and variant-level data for that generation of the CHALLENGER.
Fuel Types
Mitsubishi CHALLENGER fuel type breakdown: DIESEL 66%, PETROL 34%.
Fleet Age Profile
How many Mitsubishi CHALLENGER vehicles from each manufacture year are still registered in NZ. Taller bars mean more of that year on the road — better parts availability and more mechanics who know it.
Mitsubishi CHALLENGER fleet age profile: 2011: 143, 2012: 67, 2013: 67, 2014: 80, 2015: 206.
Drivetrain
Transmission
Mitsubishi CHALLENGER transmissions: 4-GEAR AUTO 43%, 5-GEAR AUTO 29%, 5-GEAR MANUAL 1%.
Engine Size
Mitsubishi CHALLENGER engine sizes: 2.5L 30%, 2.8L 27%, 3.0L 20%, 2.8L 8%, 3.0L 7%.
Imported From
Mitsubishi CHALLENGER imported from: Japan 70%, Thailand 30%, Australia 0%, Taiwan 0%.
When They Arrived in NZ
When Mitsubishi CHALLENGER vehicles were first registered in New Zealand — showing import waves and buying trends.
Mitsubishi CHALLENGER NZ arrival timeline: 2018: 2, 2019: 4, 2020: 7, 2021: 2, 2024: 1.
Estimated Running Costs
Select a model year to estimate fuel costs for that specific Mitsubishi CHALLENGER.
Colours
Colours shown are approximate representations of NZTA basic colour categories, not exact manufacturer paint codes.
Where They Are in NZ
Mitsubishi CHALLENGER regional distribution: AUCKLAND: 450, CHRISTCHURCH: 174, FAR NORTH: 169, WHANGAREI: 109, DUNEDIN: 70.
Body Types
Similar Cars
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Mitsubishi CHALLENGER are there in New Zealand?
There are 2,593 Mitsubishi CHALLENGER vehicles registered in New Zealand as of March 2026, making up 0.1% of the total passenger fleet. Model years range from 1996 to 2016.
How much does it cost to run a Mitsubishi CHALLENGER?
Based on NZTA fuel economy data, the Mitsubishi CHALLENGER averages 10.3 L/100km. At current fuel prices ($3.41/L), that works out to roughly $81 per week or $4,215 per year in fuel, assuming 12,000 km of annual driving. Actual costs vary by model year, driving conditions, and fuel type.
What body type is the Mitsubishi CHALLENGER?
The Mitsubishi CHALLENGER is primarily classified as a station wagon in the NZTA fleet register. It is also available in other body configurations: light van, utility. The most common fuel type is diesel.
Are Mitsubishi CHALLENGER cars imported or NZ-new?
70% of Mitsubishi CHALLENGER vehicles in New Zealand originated from Japan. A mix of NZ-new and imported vehicles make up the fleet. Check the import status and origin country for the specific year you're considering on the individual year pages.