Mitsubishi Unveils Fifth-Generation Pajero as Global Flagship

Key points

• The fifth-generation Pajero was unveiled on September 2, 2026, marking the return of the nameplate after a seven-year gap since its 2021 discontinuation.
• The vehicle is built on a ladder-frame architecture derived from the Triton pickup, featuring a 2.4-liter biturbo four-cylinder diesel engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission.
• It includes the Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system with seven selectable driving modes and retains the iconic dashboard-mounted Triple Multi Meter, now in digital form.
• Production will take place in Thailand, with domestic sales in Japan starting by the end of 2026 and global distribution planned for roughly 100 countries, including Australia, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.
• The SUV is positioned as a premium three-row model measuring approximately 194 inches in length, featuring a 14.3-inch infotainment display, lane-keep assist, and forward collision mitigation.
• Mitsubishi has not confirmed a U.S. launch, though the model could address the lack of a midsize three-row SUV in its current American portfolio, which currently consists of four smaller SUVs.

Background

The Pajero nameplate was originally introduced in 1982 and accumulated over 3.3 million units sold globally before its discontinuation in 2021. Mitsubishi had previously teased the return of the model in August 2026, highlighting its role as a key growth driver under the company’s medium-term business plan through fiscal 2029. The brand aims to increase domestic sales by 50 percent to approximately 180,000 vehicles by fiscal 2030, with the Pajero serving as a central pillar of this strategy. Future plans include introducing two smaller variants of the Pajero, including a compact SUV and a kei-sized offering, to broaden market reach.

How outlets are covering it

Carscoops emphasizes the vehicle’s exterior design, noting the new lighting, full-width LED bar, and 'Pajero' lettering on the tailgate, which may be replaced by 'Montero' in certain export markets. The outlet highlights the Super All-Wheel Control system and the potential for future electrified powertrains. USA Today focuses on the U.S. market implications, noting that while the Pajero is not yet confirmed for American sale, it could revitalize Mitsubishi’s lineup, which currently lacks a competitive midsize three-row SUV. The outlet also points out that Mitsubishi’s current U.S. models, such as the Outlander, are often outsold by competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. Japan Today provides a broader global perspective, confirming the 2.4-liter diesel engine and 8-speed automatic transmission, and noting that the Japanese large SUV market was approximately 100,000 units in 2025, with Toyota’s Land Cruiser holding a 40 percent share. The outlet also mentions that the Pajero is positioned as a genuine off-roader, contrasting it with many modern SUVs that lack true off-road capability.

Why it matters

The revival of the Pajero signals Mitsubishi’s strategic shift toward premium, rugged SUVs to compete with established rivals like the Toyota Land Cruiser and Nissan Patrol. The model’s global launch in approximately 100 countries underscores the brand’s ambition to expand its market presence, particularly in regions where off-road capability is valued. For the U.S. market, the Pajero could fill a significant gap in Mitsubishi’s lineup, potentially boosting sales and brand relevance in a segment dominated by competitors. The vehicle’s focus on durability, off-road performance, and premium features may appeal to consumers seeking a reliable, capable SUV in a market increasingly dominated by electric and hybrid models.

What to watch

Mitsubishi is expected to announce pricing and detailed specifications for the Pajero in the coming weeks, with domestic sales in Japan starting by the end of 2026. The company will likely provide updates on the U.S. market potential, though no official decision has been made. Future developments may include the introduction of electrified powertrain options and smaller variants of the Pajero, including a compact SUV and a kei-sized model, to cater to diverse market segments. The brand’s medium-term business plan through fiscal 2029 will likely highlight the Pajero’s role in achieving its sales targets, with further details expected as the model enters production and distribution phases.