Mitsubishi Motors Unveils Revived Pajero Flagship SUV

Mitsubishi Motors has unveiled the all new Pajero, reviving the iconic model line after a seven year hiatus in Japan. The SUV will serve as the company's flagship model and is destined for more than 100 markets, including Thailand, Japan, Australia, and South Africa. Production will take place at the company's facility in Thailand. The new model is expected to launch in Thailand first, followed by Japan and Australia by March 2027, with releases in other regions starting the next fiscal year.

Since its debut in 1982, Mitsubishi has sold more than 3.29 million Pajeros worldwide. The model established a reputation for reliability and off road capability, including a class victory in a major rally competition and 12 Dakar Rally wins. The revived version retains a traditional ladder frame architecture and four wheel drive system, while adding a 2.4l turbo diesel engine producing 150kW and 480Nm paired with an eight speed automatic transmission. Technical specifications include 230mm of ground clearance and a Super Select 4WD II system with seven selectable drive modes.

Interior updates include two 14.3 inch displays, a 12 speaker Dynamic Sound Yamaha Ultimate audio system, and eight airbags. The vehicle also features adaptive cruise control and MI Pilot highway driving assistance. Mitsubishi plans to introduce two smaller versions of the Pajero in the future. The company views the revived model as a key growth driver to help increase domestic sales by 50 percent from fiscal 2024 levels to approximately 180,000 vehicles by fiscal 2030.

While both reports are neutral in tone, they differ in focus. The center leaning coverage emphasizes the corporate strategy and market competition against the Toyota Land Cruiser. The center right leaning coverage focuses more heavily on the technical specifications and the vehicle's appeal to outdoor enthusiasts and the South African market.