- Mitsubishi Pajero debuts globally on September 2, 2026.
- Flagship SUV adopts a Triton-based ladder frame chassis.
- No decision has been made yet on a potential U.S. launch.
Following a lengthy teaser campaign, Mitsubishi has officially confirmed that the reborn Pajero will make its global debut on September 2. However, in a separate announcement, Mitsubishi Motors North America revealed that a US launch of the flagship SUV has yet to be decided.
The Pajero returns after a five-year hiatus, as the previous generation was discontinued in 2021, leaving Mitsubishi without a rival for the Toyota Land Cruiser and Nissan Patrol.
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The new iteration will ride on a ladder frame derived from the Mitsubishi Triton pickup, albeit with model-specific upgrades for a more refined ride, improved comfort and cross-country capabilities. It will also feature the Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system with different drive modes. Despite modern amenities and technology features, Mitsubishi insists that the SUV will remain faithful to its off-road rallying heritage.
The company has yet to reveal detailed specifications, but we expect the new Pajero to be offered with turbodiesel and hybrid powertrain options, although it is not clear if both will be available at launch.
Mitsubishi
In terms of styling, earlier sightings of camouflaged prototypes have given us a good idea of what to expect. Furthermore, Mitsubishi’s dedicated teaser site reveals bits and pieces of the model already revealed to dealers and select customer groups.
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The official teasers focus on the LED graphics, the boxy silhouette, and the black alloy wheels. Inside, highlights will include triple digital gauges inspired by its predecessors and saddle-colored perforated leather upholstery with black inserts for a premium ambiance.
Japanese veteran rally driver Hiroshi Masuoka, famous for its back-to-back Dakar victories with Mitsubishi, said: “If there were a race around the world, the fastest vehicle might well be the Pajero. It is a vehicle that doesn’t choose its path. Whether in the desert or on the highway, in snow or in rain, it ensures everyone reaches their destination reliably, and brings every passenger home safely in the end.”
Mitsubishi
Addressing long-standing speculation about a North American release with the Montero nameplate, Mitsubishi Motors North America explicitly stated that while the Pajero’s return strengthens the brand globally, no decision has been made regarding a U.S. launch. Still, the company confirmed its renewed focus on rugged offerings, making a case for a future arrival.
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The Mitsubishi Pajero will be manufactured in Thailand, next to the Triton pickup. Furthermore, the company will expand the Pajero into a family of vehicles, including a compact SUV and a kei-sized crossover.
