Mitsubishi Pajero officially returns in 2027

Talk of the Mitsubishi Pajero’s return is not new. Previously, however, it amounted to little more than speculation; it is now official that the well-known Japanese off-roader is coming back. Its global debut is scheduled for autumn, with sales due to begin in 2027.

At a time when electrification is firmly in focus, the Pajero will remain true to its DNA. Mitsubishi has already confirmed that it will use a ladder-frame chassis derived from that of the L200 pick-up, also called the Triton, a model no longer sold in Europe since 2021.

Mitsubishi has also announced that the Pajero name will no longer refer to just one vehicle, instead becoming the designation for an entire vehicle family - effectively a sub-brand. This is broadly similar to what Ford has done with Bronco and Mustang.

A genuine Mitsubishi Pajero off-roader

For now, very little is known beyond the fact that this model will serve as the flagship of Mitsubishi’s range. Despite its technical relationship with the L200, Mitsubishi has confirmed that the Pajero will feature model-specific suspension and its own cabin, developed to provide higher standards of comfort and refinement.

Four-wheel drive has also been confirmed, an essential feature for a model whose name earned much of its reputation away from the tarmac.

Its powertrain remains unknown. However, given the brand’s experience with plug-in hybrid technology, it would not be surprising if the Pajero used such a system for the first time, perhaps one similar to that fitted to the Outlander.

More Pajero models on the way

Although the engine options have yet to be announced, the direction of the new model family that will include the Pajero is already clear. Mitsubishi’s strategic plan shows that it will be only the first of several vehicles in this new range.

According to the manufacturer, at least two further models from this “family” are currently being developed, although no additional details have been provided so far.

The Pajero’s return forms part of a broader plan involving the launch of 13 new models across several markets by March 2032.

These will include SUVs, pick-ups, MPVs, city cars and electrified offerings. Mitsubishi says that five of these models will be hybrids, while another five will be fully electric.

For the moment, the Japanese brand has not confirmed whether the new Mitsubishi Pajero will be sold in Europe, stating only that it will return to “global markets”.

Given European emissions rules, that will not be straightforward. Even so, Mitsubishi could choose to bring the Pajero to Europe and revive its “eternal rivalry” with the Land Cruiser, whose new generation is sold here.