Mitsubishi will revive its iconic off-road SUV, the Pajero, in 2026, according to recent confirmation from company president Takao Kato at the Tokyo Auto Salon. The move comes after years of speculation and follows a teaser campaign that strongly suggests a new generation of the legendary vehicle is on the horizon.
A Legacy Reborn
The original Pajero ended production in 2021 after a 40-year run across four generations. The revival addresses demand for capable, go-anywhere SUVs in a segment currently dominated by the Toyota Land Cruiser. Mitsubishi’s decision to bring back the Pajero is a direct response to market trends and enthusiast demand.
Independent Development
Contrary to earlier rumors of shared components with the Nissan Patrol, Mitsubishi will develop the new Pajero entirely independently. This strategic decision highlights the company’s commitment to leveraging its own engineering resources. The SUV will ride on the same platform as the new Mitsubishi Triton pickup, using a 2.4-liter twin-turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine producing 201 hp and 347 lb-ft of torque. These figures align closely with the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado’s specs outside of North America.
Electrification Plans
Mitsubishi is also considering electrified versions of the new Pajero, potentially utilizing the same powertrain as the popular Outlander PHEV. This hybrid system combines a 2.4-liter petrol engine with two electric motors and a lithium-ion battery, delivering a combined output of 248 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque. However, scaling this powertrain to the larger SUV may require adjustments to ensure optimal performance.
Pricing and Market Positioning
While exact pricing remains uncertain, the new Pajero is expected to be positioned above the Triton in base trim, with high-spec variants commanding a premium over the Outlander. Japanese media suggests a price range of 5.5 million yen (approximately $34,900) to 7.5 million yen (around $47,500). These figures may vary significantly in Western markets, where similar vehicles like the Land Cruiser 250 carry higher price tags due to differences in powertrain options and regional market conditions.
The revival of the Pajero demonstrates Mitsubishi’s strategic shift toward capitalizing on its historical strengths in off-road vehicles. By developing the new model independently and exploring electrified options, the company aims to reassert its presence in the competitive SUV segment.
