- Mitsubishi has unveiled an all-new generation of its iconic Pajero SUV, marking its return after a five-year hiatus.
- The new Pajero will initially launch in Thailand, followed by Japan and Australia during fiscal 2026.
- From fiscal 2027, Mitsubishi plans to expand the Pajero to around 100 countries across ASEAN, Latin America, and the Middle East.
- India has not been confirmed as a market for the new Pajero yet.
- Mitsubishi entered India in 1998 through a technical collaboration with Hindustan Motors.
- The BS6 transition eventually ended Mitsubishi's passenger vehicle presence in India, as its existing models were not updated for the new emission regulations.
- For Indian enthusiasts, the new Pajero is a case of the right product arriving at the wrong time.
Mitsubishi has reintroduced the Pajero, its iconic SUV, after a five-year hiatus. The new model will launch in Thailand, Japan, and Australia during fiscal 2026, with plans to expand to around 100 countries by fiscal 2027. However, India remains unconfirmed as a market.234
The new Pajero retains its traditional upright proportions and squared-off silhouette, featuring a tall bonnet and pronounced wheel arches. It measures 4,920mm in length and 1,910mm in height, with a 2,870mm wheelbase and 230mm ground clearance. The SUV is powered by a 2.4-litre turbo-diesel engine producing up to 480Nm of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Mitsubishi has equipped the Pajero with its Super Select 4WD-II system and Super-All Wheel Control, enhancing traction and stability. The interior boasts dual 14.3-inch screens, three-zone climate control, and a 12-speaker Yamaha Ultimate sound system. Safety features include advanced driver assistance systems and eight airbags.
Despite the excitement, the absence of India as a confirmed market raises concerns. A CBU launch could make the Pajero expensive, while local assembly would require significant investment. For Indian enthusiasts, the new Pajero is a case of the right product arriving at the wrong time.7
“The new Pajero retains its boxy design with a ladder-frame chassis from the Triton pickup, a 2.4-litre turbo-diesel producing 480Nm, and Super Select 4WD-II. India's absence stems from the BS6 transition that ended Mitsubishi's local presence, making a CBU launch costly and local assembly a heavy investment.”
