Mitsubishi Pajero Likely Coming Back To India
The legendary Pajero after it was discontinued in 2021. The new model is expected to debut globally in late 2026, with an India launch possible in 2027.
Quick Overview
| Detail | Information |
| Global Debut | August-September 2026 |
| Deliveries Begin | December 2026 |
| India Launch | Possible in 2027 |
| Platform | Ladder-frame chassis (shared with Triton pickup) |
| Engine | 2.4L twin-turbo diesel (~201 bhp / 470 Nm) |
| Hybrid Option | Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) expected |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Seating | 7-seater (3 rows) |
| Expected India Price | ₹65 – ₹80 lakh (CBU route) |
| Rivals | Toyota Land Cruiser, Toyota Fortuner |
Why is the Pajero Coming Back?
Mitsubishi has confirmed that they will launch a “new full-fledged off-road SUV” in 2026. This is expected to be the Pajero. The company wants to:
- Reclaim off-road heritage – The Pajero was famous for its ruggedness
- Compete with Toyota Land Cruiser – The new Pajero targets Land Cruiser directly
- Revive a legendary nameplate – The Pajero name is still loved worldwide
Platform and Chassis – Built for Off-Road
The new Pajero will use a ladder-frame chassis (body-on-frame) shared with the Mitsubishi Triton pickup truck .
| Chassis Feature | Benefit |
| Ladder-frame | Extremely durable, best for off-road |
| High ground clearance | Good for rough terrain |
| Heavy-duty suspension | Can handle heavy loads and towing |
| Towing capacity | 3,500 kg (can tow large trailers/boats) |
| Wading depth | 800 mm (can drive through deep water) |
Why this matters: Most modern SUVs use monocoque chassis (car-like). The Pajero stays true to its off-road roots with a truck-like chassis.
Engine and Performance
The new Pajero will likely use the same engine as the Triton pickup .
| Specification | Detail |
| Engine Type | 2.4L 4-cylinder twin-turbo diesel |
| Power | ~201 bhp (150 kW) |
| Torque | 470 Nm |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD with multiple drive modes |
Drive Modes Expected: Normal, Eco, Gravel, Snow, Mud, Sand, Rock
Fuel Efficiency: Expected around 8.0 L/100 km (approx. 12.5 km/l) – impressive for a large off-road SUV.
Hybrid and Electric Options
Mitsubishi is also expected to offer a Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) version.
| PHEV Detail | Information |
| Likely System | Based on Outlander PHEV |
| Engine | 2.4L petrol + two electric motors |
| Combined Power | ~248 hp |
| Benefits | Lower fuel consumption, electric-only city driving |
The PHEV version may come later, after the diesel launch.
Design – Rugged and Box
The new Pajero will have a boxy, rugged look similar to the Land Cruiser.
| Design Feature | Detail |
| Overall Shape | Square, upright, traditional SUV |
| Front Grille | Large, bold Mitsubishi design |
| LED Lights | New DRL signatures |
| Wheel Arches | Flared, muscular |
| Spare Wheel | Likely mounted on tailgate (traditional Pajero style) |
The test vehicles have been spotted with heavy camouflage, but they clearly show a Land Cruiser-like boxy shape .
Interior and Features
The new Pajero will be much more premium than the old model.
| Interior Feature | Expected |
| Seats | 3 rows (7 seats) |
| Upholstery | Premium leather / Nappa leather |
| Touchscreen | 12.3-inch (expected) |
| Instrument Cluster | Digital |
| ADAS | Advanced Driver Assistance Systems |
| 360-Degree Camera | Yes (for parking and off-road) |
| Sunroof | Panoramic (expected) |
The interior will be much more luxurious than the older Pajero, with better materials and more technology.
India Launch Details
| India Detail | Information |
| India Launch | Expected in 2027 (after global debut) |
| Import Route | Likely CBU (Completely Built Unit) |
| Expected Price | ₹65 – ₹80 lakh (ex-showroom) |
| Rivals in India | Toyota Fortuner, Toyota Land Cruiser |
| Mitsubishi’s India Partner | TVS Mobility (service ecosystem) |
Why so expensive? The Pajero will likely be imported as a CBU, which attracts high import taxes (over 100%). Local assembly is not confirmed.
Old Pajero Sport Price (for reference): The discontinued Pajero Sport was priced between ₹28-36 lakh.
Comparison – Old vs New Pajero
| Feature | Discontinued Pajero Sport | Expected New Pajero (2026/27) |
| Engine | 2.5L Diesel (176 bhp) | 2.4L Twin-Turbo Diesel (201 bhp) |
| Torque | ~350 Nm | 470 Nm |
| Transmission | 5-6 speed | 8-speed automatic |
| Chassis | Ladder-frame | Reinforced ladder-frame |
| Interior Tech | Basic | 12.3″ screen, ADAS, 360 camera |
| Price (India) | ₹28-36 lakh | ₹65-80 lakh (expected) |
The new Pajero will be much more powerful, more premium, and more expensive than the old one.
Rivals
| Model | Price (India) | Engine | Torque |
| Mitsubishi Pajero (New) | ~₹65-80 lakh | 2.4L Diesel | 470 Nm |
| Toyota Land Cruiser | ~₹2-3 Crore | 3.3L Diesel | 700 Nm |
| Toyota Fortuner | ₹38-55 lakh | 2.8L Diesel | 500 Nm |
The new Pajero will sit above the Fortuner but below the Land Cruiser in price and positioning.
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