Mitsubishi Pajero returns: Fifth-gen SUV revealed with 2.4L diesel engine and advanced 4WD system

Mitsubishi has unveiled the all-new Pajero, bringing back one of its most iconic SUV nameplates.

The new Pajero will first hit the market in its Thailand production base, followed by rollouts in Japan and Australia. From 2027, it is expected to expand to around 100 markets globally across ASEAN, Central and South America, and the Middle East.

First introduced in 1982, the Pajero built its reputation as a capable four-wheel-drive SUV that combined genuine off-road ability with everyday comfort. Across four generations, more than 3.29 million units have been produced and the model has been sold in over 170 countries and regions.

The new Pajero is designed around the concept of Grand Charisma. While staying true to the SUV's heritage, the latest generation introduces a more modern interpretation with a greater focus on craftsmanship, combining a rugged presence with a more refined appearance.

The new Pajero pays tribute to the original model with its upright, boxy proportions and robust styling cues. Stronger wheel arches give the SUV a more planted stance, while the T-shaped headlights add a distinctive signature at the front.

Two grille designs are available: a horizontal slat version for a more premium look, and a honeycomb-style grille that leans towards a tougher, more functional appearance.

The C-pillar carries a clear reference to the original Pajero's roll bar design, while hexagonal elements at the rear recall the spare wheel mounted on earlier generations.

Inside, the dashboard retains the horizontal layout of the original Pajero, combining a functional design with a more premium cabin ambience.

Soft-touch materials are used across the dashboard and door panels, with detailing inspired by Kimekomi, a traditional Japanese craft known for its intricate fabric-inlay technique. This adds depth and a more luxurious feel to the cabin.

Mitsubishi has paid particular attention to cabin quietness, with acoustic glass fitted to the front and rear windows, alongside additional sound insulation throughout the body. The measures help keep wind and engine noise down.

Inside, the infotainment system features a dual 14.3-inch integrated display setup with a clean and intuitive layout. It includes start-up animations, drive mode-specific screens and 16 different instrument display themes that change with time.

The Pajero's signature three-gauge cluster has also been reinterpreted digitally, using GPS, gyroscope and other sensors to provide real-time driving information. Wireless smartphone connectivity is supported, with access to navigation, music and other functions.

Power comes from a newly developed 2.4-litre diesel engine with a variable turbocharger, producing 480Nm of torque. Paired with a new 8-speed automatic transmission with a Sport mode, it offers smoother, quieter shifts and more direct acceleration, whether on the road or off it.

Beneath the body, the new Pajero uses a high-rigidity ladder frame built on Mitsubishi's experience from rallying and years of testing in harsh conditions. More high-strength steel has been used to improve torsional and bending rigidity, while keeping the chassis lighter for better stability, comfort and durability.

The suspension setup combines double wishbones at the front with a newly developed five-link axle at the rear. The layout improves wheel articulation for off-road driving while maintaining natural steering feel and a smoother, more comfortable ride on the road.

During development, Mitsubishi placed a strong focus on ride comfort over rough surfaces, reinforcing the suspension bushes and other components to better absorb impacts from uneven terrain.

The Pajero's Super Select 4WD-II (SS4-II) system offers four driving modes: 2H rear-wheel drive, 4H full-time four-wheel drive, 4HLc centre differential lock and 4LLc low-range mode.

It works together with Mitsubishi's Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system, which integrates Active Yaw Control (AYC), Active Stability and Traction Control (ASTC) and ABS to optimise power delivery and braking force across all four wheels.

Seven drive modes — Normal, Eco, Gravel, Snow, Mud, Sand and Rock — are available to suit different road conditions. Braking performance is also enhanced with large 18-inch brake discs and an electric brake booster, delivering a more confident pedal feel.

The new Pajero comes with a three-row, seven-seat layout, with each row carefully optimised for space and comfort. The high driving position gives the driver a commanding view of the road and makes it easier to judge the vehicle's size.

The second-row seats can slide forward and backward by 150mm and feature a fold function for easier access to the third row. Even adult passengers can sit comfortably in the rear, with Mitsubishi paying particular attention to headroom and legroom.

The first and second rows feature improved support, while the third row has also been redesigned for greater comfort. Ventilated seats and a three-zone automatic climate control system help keep all passengers comfortable on longer journeys.

For active safety, the new Pajero comes equipped with Mitsubishi's latest driver-assistance features, including a forward collision mitigation system that can detect pedestrians, cyclists and motorcycles, as well as intersection assistance.

It also adds an emergency lane-keeping assist function for the first time. Using cameras and radar sensors to monitor lane markings and surrounding vehicles, the system can warn the driver and provide steering support when it detects a potential lane departure. An intersection traffic alert system further helps reduce the risk of collisions at junctions.

On highways, the Pajero supports Mi-Pilot single-lane driving assistance, combining adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist to reduce fatigue during long-distance journeys.

Safety protection has also been upgraded, with Mitsubishi introducing a centre SRS airbag for the first time. Together with the other airbags, the new Pajero features eight airbags in total, helping to reduce the risk of injury from front-seat occupant collisions.

A 3D multi-camera surround-view system gives drivers a clear view of the vehicle's surroundings in real time, making it easier to manoeuvre in tight spaces, park, or tackle challenging off-road terrain.

When the vehicle is switched into 4HLc or 4LLc four-wheel-drive modes, the system can automatically activate a front underbody view, showing areas hidden from the driver's line of sight and helping them navigate rough trails with greater confidence.

The MITSUBISHI CONNECT system adds a range of connected features, including remote climate control, vehicle status checks and emergency SOS assistance via a smartphone app.

The new Dynamic Sound Yamaha Ultimate audio system, jointly developed by Mitsubishi and Yamaha, features 12 speakers and can automatically adjust volume and sound output according to vehicle speed to help offset road noise.

Mitsubishi Motors Representative Executive Officer and COO Keisuke Kishiura said the company's long-term strategy for the 2030s is focused on strengthening its distinctive products and brand identity, while improving customer satisfaction and corporate value.

As the first model under this direction, the all-new Pajero will play a key role in reviving the Pajero nameplate and shaping the future development of the SUV line-up. Combining upgraded refinement with proven off-road capability, the flagship SUV will be rolled out globally in stages.

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