Mitsubishi Revives Pajero Name with New Ladder-Frame SUV

Key points

• The 2027 Pajero is a clean-sheet redesign based on the Triton pickup's ladder-frame platform, featuring increased high-tensile steel for improved rigidity.
• It is powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter diesel engine with 204 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
• The vehicle offers a three-row, seven-seat layout with a sliding second row and a tumble mechanism for cargo access, featuring a luxurious interior with dual 14.3-inch screens.
• Off-road capabilities include 9.1 inches of ground clearance, a Super Select 4WD-II system with four modes, and a Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) system for stability.
• Launch is scheduled for Thailand, Japan, and Australia by March 2027, with global expansion to around 100 countries; US availability remains undecided.

Background

The Pajero name was discontinued globally in 2021, with the US market losing the Montero variant back in 2006. The original model, launched in 1982, sold over 3.3 million units in 170 countries. This revival follows a period where Mitsubishi canceled the previous generation without an immediate successor, despite growing demand for off-road SUVs. The new model is part of a broader strategy to expand the Pajero brand into a series of models, similar to Toyota's Land Cruiser lineup.

Why it matters

The return of the Pajero signals Mitsubishi's intent to re-enter the competitive off-road SUV segment, which has seen strong growth. By leveraging the Triton platform and advanced 4WD technology, the company aims to attract customers seeking a blend of highway comfort and serious off-road capability. The decision to launch in key markets like Japan and Australia first, while leaving the US market undecided, reflects a cautious approach to testing consumer demand and regulatory compliance in different regions.

What to watch

Mitsubishi plans to introduce at least two smaller off-road models under the Pajero name, following a strategy similar to Toyota's Land Cruiser lineup. The company will likely announce specific pricing and detailed trim levels closer to the March 2027 launch date in initial markets. US availability remains a key question, with potential announcements expected as part of Mitsubishi's broader plan to lure customers back into dealerships.