Mitsubishi Revives Iconic Pajero SUV With Fifth-Generation Global Launch

Mitsubishi has officially unveiled the fifth generation of its iconic Pajero SUV, marking the return of the nameplate to the global stage after a five-year absence. The new model, which shares its ladder-frame chassis with the Triton pickup, is designed to compete in the rugged 4x4 segment with a focus on three-row practicality and off-road capability. The vehicle is scheduled to begin its market rollout in Thailand, Japan, and Australia by the end of March 2027, with plans to expand into 100 international markets across Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America.

This revival represents a strategic pivot for Mitsubishi, which has been absent from the full-size SUV market since discontinuing the previous generation. By leveraging the Triton platform, the company aims to deliver a vehicle that balances traditional off-road engineering with modern consumer expectations for interior comfort and technology. While the initial launch focuses on internal combustion engine variants, the company has indicated that electric powertrains are expected to follow in future iterations, aligning the model with broader industry trends toward electrification.

The new Pajero is built on a ladder-frame chassis derived from the Mitsubishi Triton, a foundation chosen to ensure durability in demanding environments. The suspension system has been specifically tuned for the Pajero, utilizing an independent double-wishbone setup at the front and a five-link rigid axle at the rear. These specifications were developed using data and insights gathered from Mitsubishi's long-standing involvement in the Dakar Rally, a program known for testing vehicle performance in extreme conditions.

To manage diverse terrain, the SUV is equipped with a conventional four-wheel-drive system paired with Mitsubishi's Super-All Wheel Control technology. This system incorporates Active Yaw Control and seven distinct terrain modes, allowing drivers to adjust vehicle dynamics based on surface conditions. With a ground clearance of 9.1 inches and approach, breakover, and departure angles of 30.4, 22.6, and 25.8 degrees respectively, the vehicle is positioned as a direct competitor to established off-roaders like the Toyota Land Cruiser 250 Series.

At the heart of the new Pajero is a 2.4-liter diesel engine equipped with a single variable geometry turbocharger. This powertrain produces 201 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, though Mitsubishi notes that torque figures may be adjusted to 347 lb-ft for specific market configurations. The engine is mated to a newly developed eight-speed automatic transmission, which is designed to optimize power delivery across both highway and off-road scenarios.

While the current launch is strictly limited to internal combustion engines, the platform is engineered to accommodate future powertrain developments. Industry observers anticipate that Mitsubishi will introduce electrified trims to the lineup as part of a phased rollout, though the company has not provided a specific timeline for these additions. For now, the focus remains on the diesel-powered configuration, which the company believes will meet the immediate demands of its core markets in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.

The interior of the fifth-generation Pajero emphasizes a blend of utility and luxury, featuring three-row seating for seven passengers. The cabin is equipped with three-zone automatic climate control and ventilated seats, with options for Camel-toned leather upholstery accented by black stitching. The dashboard layout features high-set air vents and a chunky center console, reflecting the vehicle's rugged design language while incorporating soft-touch materials to enhance passenger comfort.

Technology integration is a central component of the new cabin, highlighted by a digital version of the traditional Multi Meter. This display provides real-time off-road telemetry, including pitch and roll angles, altitude, compass headings, and temperature readings. Drivers interact with the vehicle through dual 14.3-inch displays on higher trims, or 12.3-inch screens on entry-level models. Additionally, the cabin features a premium Yamaha audio system with 12 speakers and noise reduction technology, alongside the MI-PILOT driver assistance suite for enhanced safety.

The exterior design of the new Pajero incorporates modern aesthetic trends while retaining nods to the model's heritage. Key features include T-shaped LED headlights, a vertical front grille, and a textured C-pillar that extends to the roof, a design element inspired by the cab-mounted roll bars of the first-generation Pajero. The vehicle measures 193.7 inches in length with a 113-inch wheelbase, providing a substantial footprint that mirrors the dimensions of its primary competitors.

Despite the global rollout, Mitsubishi has remained non-committal regarding a potential return to the North American market. When questioned about the possibility of releasing the vehicle as the Montero in the United States, the company stated that no decision has been made regarding a US introduction. This stance suggests that the Pajero will remain focused on markets where ladder-frame SUVs maintain strong demand, leaving American enthusiasts without a clear path to the new model for the foreseeable future.

Production of the new Pajero will be centered in Thailand, which serves as the primary manufacturing hub for the global launch. The phased release strategy will see the vehicle reach its first markets in March 2027, followed by a broader expansion into international territories. The company's ability to scale production and meet demand across these 100 markets will be a critical test for the Pajero nameplate as it attempts to reclaim its position in the competitive 4x4 segment.