New Mitsubishi Pajero returns to Japan on 17 December 2026, priced from around HK$315,000

Nov 5, 2026

Mitsubishi's all-new Pajero is set to go on sale in Japan on 17 December 2026, marking the model's return to its home market. Prices start at JPY 6,193,000 (approximately HK$315,000), rising to JPY 7,950,800 (around HK$405,000) for the range-topping version.

The new Pajero will be offered in four grades: GLS, GSR, EXCEED and SUPER EXCEED. All versions are powered by a 2.4-litre turbocharged diesel engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Mitsubishi's Super Select 4WD-II four-wheel-drive system.

Orders opened on 1 October, and Mitsubishi had received around 5,500 bookings by 28 October. This has already exceeded the company's sales target for the 2026 financial year, suggesting a strong initial response to the new model.

A new chapter for Mitsubishi's iconic off-roader

First introduced in 1982, the Pajero has long been one of Mitsubishi's best-known off-road models. The latest generation retains the nameplate's focus on off-road capability, durability and four-wheel-drive technology, while bringing a more upmarket cabin and improved comfort equipment.

Mitsubishi positions it as its new-generation flagship cross-country SUV.

The exterior adopts a boxy design, with pronounced wheel arches, a sculpted bonnet and substantial bodywork giving it a purposeful off-road stance.

Several details also pay tribute to the original Pajero. The C-pillar design, for example, takes inspiration from the roll-bar structure of the first-generation model, bringing a familiar styling cue into the latest generation.

There are two grille designs, depending on the trim level.

The range-topping SUPER EXCEED features a honeycomb-pattern grille, while the EXCEED, GSR and GLS use horizontal grille bars.

At the rear, the hexagonal design references the tailgate-mounted spare wheel found on previous generations, further reinforcing the Pajero's heritage.

Powertrain

Power comes from a 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine, producing 204PS (150kW) and 480Nm of torque between 1,750 and 2,500rpm.

It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which also features a Sport mode. The powertrain is designed to deliver the low-rev pulling power needed for off-road driving, while remaining suitable for everyday use.

Mitsubishi quotes a WLTC fuel consumption figure of 12.1km/L, equivalent to approximately 8.26 litres per 100km. With its traditional ladder-frame chassis, the Pajero is engineered primarily to handle a wide range of driving conditions, both on and off the road.

The four-wheel-drive system is Mitsubishi's Super Select 4WD-II, offering four modes: 2H, 4H, 4HLc and 4LLc. Drivers can switch between rear-wheel drive, four-wheel drive and settings with the centre differential locked, depending on the terrain.

The system is supported by Mitsubishi's Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) vehicle dynamics control technology, which integrates Active Yaw Control, traction control and ABS to improve stability and handling across different surfaces.

Seven drive modes are also available: Normal, Eco, Gravel, Snow, Mud, Sand and Rock. These settings cover everything from everyday roads to loose gravel, snow, mud, sand and rocky terrain.

Ladder-frame chassis

The new Pajero retains a ladder-frame chassis, with Mitsubishi strengthening the structure through greater use of high-strength steel, larger cross-sections and revised cross-member designs. These changes are intended to improve torsional and bending rigidity while keeping weight under control.

The suspension comprises double-wishbone independent suspension at the front and a newly developed five-link suspension at the rear. The setup aims to preserve the Pajero's off-road ability while improving ride comfort and stability on paved roads.

On versions equipped with 20-inch wheels, ground clearance stands at 230mm. The approach angle is 30.4 degrees, while the breakover and departure angles are 22.6 and 25.8 degrees respectively.

Interior

Inside, the new Pajero features a three-row, seven-seat layout. It measures 4,920mm long, 1,925mm wide and 1,910mm tall, with its wheelbase and cabin designed to accommodate family use and longer journeys.

The second-row seats can slide forwards and backwards by 150mm and fold forward to make access to the third row easier.

The driver's cockpit features two large displays, combining a digital instrument cluster with an infotainment system. A Multi Meter display also provides off-road information. The centre console uses an electronic gear selector, freeing up space compared with a conventional mechanical lever.

The range-topping SUPER EXCEED gets the Dynamic Sound Yamaha Ultimate audio system, developed jointly by Mitsubishi and Yamaha. It features 12 speakers and two amplifiers, along with volume and sound-quality compensation functions.

Safety equipment includes eight airbags, among them an SRS centre airbag, a first for Mitsubishi. The new Pajero also comes with MI-PILOT highway driving assistance, a 3D Multi Around Monitor and a range of e-Assist active safety features. These include forward collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, and emergency lane assistance.

Variants and pricing in Japan

The new Pajero is available in four grades in Japan. All are equipped with the same 2.4-litre turbocharged diesel engine, eight-speed automatic transmission and Super Select 4WD-II system.